Savanna Hoffman
Portland Community College (PCC) is a top choice for international students from around the world, offering a supportive faculty, career-building programs, and an inclusive community. With over 85 academic programs, including ESL, and students from 65 countries, PCC provides a diverse and vibrant environment for international students to thrive. One of the key benefits of studying at PCC is the ease of application and the support provided by the Office of International Student Services (OISS), which guides students through applications, visas, and campus life. International students at PCC also have the opportunity to work on-campus part-time, gain real-world skills, and transfer to top universities after two years. The college's commitment to cultural inclusivity and academic encouragement ensures that international students feel welcomed and supported throughout their academic journey.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Application fee | None |
| English proficiency requirement | None (but can be exempted with proof) |
| Support | International Success Coach, Career Services office |
| Work | Allowed to work on-campus, part-time (up to 20 hours per week) |
| Student life | Student activities and events, student leadership positions |
| Registration | Priority registration date |
| Classes | Transfer-friendly environment |
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What You'll Learn
Easy application process
International students at PCC, or Portland Community College, can benefit from a simple application process. The college supports students through applications, visas, and campus life, and there is no application fee.
The application process is entirely online. Students need to fill out an online application form and upload the required documents, including a copy of their passport, transcripts, and financial documents. Notably, SAT/ACT/TOEFL/IELTS testing scores are not required, although students whose native language is not English may need to demonstrate proficiency in the language. This can be done by taking the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) exam. However, students who have completed the East Carolina University Language Academy (ECULA) are granted an English proficiency waiver for these exams. Additionally, students whose country has English as its only official language are exempt from taking these exams.
After submitting the application, the OISS Admissions team will review it. Students are advised to log into the application portal regularly to check for any requests for new documents and status updates. Once the application is complete, it can take up to four weeks for an admissions decision.
PCC also offers an International Student Pathway for students to benefit from early registration and extra support from coaches and tutors.
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Supportive community
As an international student at PCC, you will be part of a supportive community that fosters inclusivity, cultural diversity, and academic encouragement. With students from over 65 different countries, the college is a melting pot of diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives.
The Office of International Student Services (OISS) is a dedicated resource for international students, providing support and guidance throughout the application process, visa maintenance, and campus life. The OISS helps international students integrate into the PCC community and encourages their participation in student life activities, events, and leadership positions.
International students at PCC also benefit from the International Student Pathway program, which offers early registration to ensure access to desired classes and support from Pathway coaches, tutors, and instructors. This program ensures a smooth transition to academic life in the US, with priority registration dates, allowing international students to secure their preferred classes and schedules.
Additionally, PCC provides International Success Coaches, who are current or recent graduate students dedicated to helping international students navigate their way through the college. These coaches offer valuable insights and assistance, ensuring that international students can successfully manage their academic and personal goals.
The college also offers career-building programs, such as resume-building workshops and interview preparation, to help students build a solid foundation for their future careers. The inclusive and welcoming environment at PCC is further enhanced by supportive classmates who embrace cultural diversity and are curious about their international peers' experiences.
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Career-building programs
As an international student at PCC, you have access to a range of career-building programs and resources to support your professional development and future career.
One of the key benefits is the opportunity to work on campus, allowing you to gain valuable work experience and get involved in the PCC community. F-1 international students are allowed to work on-campus part-time, for up to 20 hours per week, with job opportunities in various areas such as the library, cafeteria, office of international student services, and tutoring. This can provide a great foundation for your career, as highlighted by Yuvraj from India, who shared that working on campus helped him build his career by allowing him to get involved in the PCC community and build his resume.
Additionally, PCC offers career services to help students with their career development. The Career Services office assists students in resume building and prepares them for job interviews, providing them with the tools and confidence needed to succeed in their job search.
The International Student Pathway program at PCC also provides special benefits, such as early registration, ensuring you can get the classes you need to transfer to your dream university quickly. This program offers support from Pathway coaches, tutors, and instructors, who can guide and mentor you throughout your academic journey.
Furthermore, PCC encourages international students to get involved in student life activities and events, as well as student leadership positions, providing opportunities to develop valuable skills and build a network. The college promotes engagement outside the classroom, fostering a sense of community and a richer educational experience.
With its career-building programs and supportive environment, PCC stands as a top choice for international students seeking academic and professional growth, cultural inclusivity, and a welcoming community.
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On-campus jobs
There are various job opportunities available for international students at PCC. These include working in the library, cafeteria, office of international student services, tutoring, and more. International students can also gain practical work experience in their field of study through Optional Practical Training (OPT) or Curricular Practical Training (CPT). OPT allows F-1 students to work for up to 12 months before or after completing their studies, as long as the employment is directly related to their field of study. To receive OPT, students must apply through USCIS and receive an employment authorization document (EAD card). CPT, on the other hand, allows students to work in a specific internship or job that is an integral part of their program curriculum. CPT is authorized by the Office of International Education (OIE) and does not require a separate USCIS application.
International students at PCC also have access to support services and resources to help them navigate their academic and career paths. The International Student Pathway program offers benefits such as early registration, allowing students to get the classes they need to transfer to their desired universities faster. Additionally, students in this program have access to Pathway coaches, tutors, and instructors who can provide guidance and support. The International Student Center staff are also available to answer questions and help international students with any problems they may encounter.
Overall, on-campus jobs provide international students at PCC with valuable opportunities to gain work experience, earn income, and explore different career paths while studying. With the support of success coaches and the availability of practical training programs, international students can enhance their academic and professional development during their time at PCC.
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Transfer-friendly environment
Portland Community College (PCC) is a great choice for international students seeking a transfer-friendly environment. The college offers numerous benefits and support services to ease the transition for international students and help them succeed academically and personally.
One of the key advantages of PCC is its accessibility and ease of application. The college welcomes students from over 65 different countries, fostering a diverse and inclusive community. The application process is straightforward, with no application or mailing fees. English proficiency is not required for admission, although students can provide proof of proficiency to be exempted from the ESOL placement testing and program.
PCC's transfer-friendly environment empowers students to save time and money while building a solid academic foundation. Students like Amina from Ukraine, as mentioned in a testimonial, appreciated the support she received from the History department, where her cultural experiences were valued and included in class discussions. This reflects PCC's commitment to cultural inclusivity and academic encouragement.
The college offers early registration options, ensuring international students can secure the classes they need and plan their schedules effectively. Additionally, PCC provides access to International Success Coaches, who are current or recent graduate students dedicated to guiding and supporting international students throughout their time at the college.
The Office of International Student Services (OISS) is a vital source of support for international students at PCC. The OISS assists with applications, visas, and campus life, ensuring a smooth transition for new students. The office also encourages international students to engage with domestic students, connect with the Portland community, and take on student leadership roles, fostering a sense of belonging and enhancing their overall experience.
Outside the classroom, PCC promotes student engagement through various activities, events, and volunteer opportunities. Students like Zoe from Vietnam highlighted the benefits of participating in extracurricular activities, leading to lasting friendships and a richer educational experience. Working on campus, as Yuvraj from India did, provides international students with valuable real-world skills and career readiness, helping them build a solid foundation for their future endeavours.
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Frequently asked questions
PCC is one of the top community colleges in the US with students from over 65 countries worldwide. As an international student at PCC, you will have access to support services and student life activities that will help you connect with other students and the Portland community. You will also have access to on-campus job opportunities and career services to help you build your resume and prepare for job interviews.
The application process for international students at PCC is simple and easy. There is no application or mailing fee. You will need to complete the online application and upload the required documents, such as a copy of your passport, transcripts, and financial documents. English proficiency is not required for admission, but you may be exempted from the ESOL placement testing and ESOL program if you can provide proof of English proficiency.
Although I cannot find specific information about scholarship opportunities for international students at PCC, the college does offer financial aid and tuition options for international students. You can refer to their Non-US Citizen Applicant and Student Guide for more information.
Yes, F-1 international students are allowed to work on-campus part-time (up to 20 hours per week) while studying. There are many job opportunities available, such as working in the library, cafeteria, office of international student services, or tutoring.
PCC offers a range of support services for international students, including the Office of International Student Services (OISS), which helps students with applications, visas, and campus life. The college also provides an international student newsletter with important announcements, events, activities, and volunteer opportunities.
