Prospective International Students

Oakland Community College welcomes students from around the globe. With a thriving international student community in its multi-campus system, OCC is an ideal location for students seeking a college experience in the United States.

Information outlined here is specifically for students who are or will have a student visa (F-1 or M-1) status while studying at Oakland Community College. All other international students and Permanent Residents will follow the main admission steps for new students.

Where do I get started as a prospective international student?

Journey to become an OCC International Student

1. Apply and receive acceptance to Oakland Community College | Admissions will notify students of their admission status, OCC students email and OCC students ID number.

2. Confirm English Proficiency or take ESL Placement Exam | For more information on English Proficiency and testing.

3. Request Form I-20 from International Student Services | I-20's are requested in the F-1 Student Portal. Deadlines apply and late request will not be accepted.

4. Pay the I-901 SEVIS Fee | Student with an initial I-20 must pay the I-901 SEVIS fee.

5. Apply for Student Visa | Student brings Form I-20 and other required documents to apply for a student visa from the U.S. Department of State.

6. Arrive in the United States | Students arrive no more than 30 days before the program start date listed on the Form I-20.

7. Complete Check-in and Maintain Status during Program of Study | Students must enroll full-time and not work without authorization. More information on maintaining status is found on the Student Visa webpage.

8. Complete academic program and make plans for post-graduation

Why should I choose OCC?

Hundreds of international students call OCC home, and these are just some of the reasons why:

Nearly 100 different associate degree programs
Transferable credits – OCC is a top transfer institution, and our students have transferred to over 400 institutions, including selective national universities, flagship state universities and local favorites
Comprehensive English as a Second Language (ESL) classes
Affordability
Tuition that can be paid with international funds
Support services to help you succeed
Small class sizes
High-demand career programs
Open admissions policy
Caring, experienced faculty in every class – no teaching assistants