Lori Meadows
International students at Houston Community College (HCC) are required to demonstrate English language proficiency by taking an exam such as TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo. Students who do not meet the requirements will need to enroll in the Intensive English Program or take English as a Second Language (ESL) classes. The ESL Program at HCC offers two levels, each consisting of 20 contact hours per week for 16 weeks per semester, and includes courses in reading, writing, conversation, and grammar. International students at HCC on an F-1 visa are not eligible for financial aid and must provide proof of sufficient funds to cover academic and living expenses.
| Characteristics | Values | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Reason for international students to take ELS | To demonstrate English language proficiency | ||
| English proficiency tests accepted by HCC | TOEFL, IELTS, PTE Academic, TOEIC, DUOLINGO, ACCUPLACER (ESL), or an approved TSI test | ||
| Students exempt from providing proof of English proficiency | Students who graduated from an English-speaking high school in the following countries: American Samoa, Australia, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Bermuda, Canada (except Quebec), Dominica, Grenada, Grand Cayman, Guyana, Ireland, Jamaica, Liberia, New Zealand, Trinidad/Tobago, United Kingdom, U.S. Pacific Trust | ||
| Application process for international students | Submit a complete application to the Office of International Services & Programs (ISP) by the application deadline | ||
| Application fee | $50, non-refundable, payable online, via international wire transfer, or at the HCC Cashier Offices | ||
| Additional documents required for international students | Passport photocopy (biometric page only), transcripts from a high school, college, or university outside the US evaluated by an accredited evaluation agency, | Characteristics | Values |
| --- | --- | ||
| Reason for international students to take ELS | To demonstrate English language proficiency | ||
| English proficiency tests accepted by HCC | TOEFL, IELTS, PTE Academic, TOEIC, DUOLINGO, ACCUPLACER (ESL), or an approved TSI test | ||
| Students exempt from providing proof of English proficiency | Students who graduated from an English-speaking high school from American Samoa, Australia, the Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Bermuda, Canada (except Quebec), Dominica, Grenada, Grand Cayman, Guyana, Ireland, Jamaica, Liberia, New Zealand, Trinidad/Tobago, the United Kingdom, or the U.S. Pacific Trust | ||
| Application process for international students | Submit a complete application to the Office of International Services & Programs (ISP) by the application deadline | ||
| Application fee | $50.00 | ||
| Application requirements | Passport photocopy, proof of sufficient funds, proof of health insurance | ||
| Transcript requirements | Transcripts from outside the U.S. must be evaluated by an accredited evaluation agency | ||
| Work opportunities for international students | Part-time work up to 19.5 hours per week on campus; off-campus work requires special permission (CPT or OPT) |
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What You'll Learn
English proficiency requirements
International students planning to enrol in academic programmes at Houston Community College (HCC) must demonstrate English language proficiency. This is to ensure they can effectively communicate with English speakers and succeed in college-level classes. Students can prove their English proficiency by taking one of the following exams: TOEFL, IELTS, PTE Academic, TOEIC, DUOLINGO, ACCUPLACER (ESL), or an approved TSI test.
It is important to note that the TOEFL exam is not a mandatory requirement for admission as an international student to HCC. Students who graduated from an English-speaking high school in specific countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada (except Quebec), Australia, and New Zealand, are exempt from providing proof of English proficiency.
For students who need to demonstrate English proficiency, exam scores should be dated within the past two years and must meet state and institutional requirements. Students who do not meet the required scores will be required to enrol in the Intensive English Program or Academic English-as-a-Second-Language. The Intensive English Program at HCC is designed to help students improve their English language skills before progressing to academic studies. The program offers two levels, each consisting of 20 contact hours per week for 16 weeks per semester, covering reading, writing, conversation, and grammar.
Additionally, HCC offers English as a Second Language (ESL) classes within the Adult Education and Literacy (AEL) Programs. These classes teach reading, listening, speaking, and writing at Beginning, Intermediate, and Advanced levels. Students in the AEL program can also utilise web-based distance learning (DL) software to improve their English language skills outside of class.
Overall, HCC provides various pathways for international students to meet English proficiency requirements, ensuring they have the necessary skills to succeed in their academic endeavours.
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Application process
International students applying to Houston Community College (HCC) must submit a complete application to the Office of International Services & Programs (ISP) by the application deadline. Students planning to attend HCC on an F-1 visa need to apply at least three months before the start of the term to allow for visa processing and to arrange personal and academic affairs upon arrival.
The application process involves the following steps:
Step 1: Complete the admissions application
Submit the admissions application to the Office of International Services & Programs (ISP). Students can seek assistance from HCC staff, who are available at no cost to help with the admissions and registration process.
Step 2: Submit TOEFL scores
All foreign applicants must take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) and submit their scores to the college. Proof of English proficiency is necessary as English is the language of instruction at HCC.
Step 3: Provide financial documentation
Submit a completed Financial Statement Form, certified by your banker, to demonstrate that you have adequate funds to support yourself while studying at HCC. This is a crucial requirement as HCC does not provide financial aid to international students, and all applicants are expected to be self-supporting.
Step 4: Submit required documents
Upload all the required documents, including your medical form and official high school transcript with a graduation date. If you are under 22 years old, submit proof of Meningitis Vaccination. If you are bringing dependents (spouse/children under 21) on an F-2 status, include copies of their passports, marriage certificates, and birth certificates.
Step 5: Pay the application fee
Pay the non-refundable application fee of $75. This can be paid online using a credit card or via a funds transfer from your local bank.
Step 6: Monitor your application status
After submitting all the required documents, it typically takes around 10 business days for the review and processing of your application. Log in to your HCC Student Sign-In to check your application status. If you haven't received an update within 10 business days, contact the relevant department to follow up.
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Housing options
International students at Houston Community College (HCC) must take English as a Second Language (ESL) classes to demonstrate English language proficiency. Students can take exams such as TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE Academic to assess their English skills. Those who do not meet the required proficiency standards will need to enrol in the Intensive English Program or take Academic English-as-a-Second-Language classes.
Houston Community College (HCC) does not have on-campus housing, nor does it directly provide housing services for its students. However, HCC offers suggestions and resources to help students find suitable housing options. Here are some housing options for international students attending HCC:
Hawks Landing Student Apartments
Hawks Landing is the primary housing recommendation for HCC students. It is located adjacent to the Dale Mabry Campus and offers one-bedroom/one-bathroom units within four-bedroom student apartments. To apply for student housing at Hawks Landing, applicants must be at least 17 years old and admitted as students to HCC. Housing is available on a first-come, first-served basis, and students are required to sign a one-year lease contract, with rent paid monthly.
Off-Campus Housing
HCC does not endorse or assume responsibility for any housing arrangements made by students. However, students can explore various off-campus housing options near the college. Students may need to arrange temporary housing, such as hotels near the Tampa airport and the Dale Mabry Campus, while searching for permanent accommodations.
Homestay Programs
International students can also explore homestay programs, which offer the opportunity to live with host families in the local community. These programs provide a cultural immersion experience and allow students to practice their English language skills in a home environment.
Student Exchange Programs
Participating in student exchange programs can offer housing alternatives. Students may have the chance to live with a host student or in designated housing arranged by the exchange program. This option often includes cultural activities and support services to facilitate a smooth transition to life in a new country.
Residential Colleges or Dormitories
Residential colleges or dormitories near HCC could be an option for students who prefer a more traditional student housing experience. These facilities typically offer shared rooms, common areas, and may provide meal plans or shared kitchen facilities.
Shared Rental Properties
International students at HCC may also consider sharing rental properties, such as apartments or houses, with other students. This option can be more affordable and provide a sense of community and support among roommates.
When considering housing options, international students should factor in their personal preferences, budget, proximity to the college, and the availability of necessary amenities and services. It is essential to carefully review lease agreements, understand the payment terms, and be aware of any additional fees or expenses that may apply.
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Scholarships and financial aid
International students at Houston Community College (HCC) are required to demonstrate English language proficiency by taking an exam such as TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE Academic. Those who do not meet the requirements must enrol in the Intensive English Program or take English as a Second Language (ESL) classes.
Houston Community College (HCC) offers various scholarships and financial aid opportunities to support students, including international students, in their academic pursuits. Here is some detailed information on scholarships and financial aid specifically for international students taking ESL classes at HCC:
- Impact Scholarship: This scholarship is available to students who meet the Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) requirements. New students begin with a clean slate and will retain the scholarship as long as they maintain a GPA of 2.74 or higher. The maximum award amount is $1,000 per semester, covering any remaining tuition, fees, and book costs after other aid is applied.
- Eagle Promise Program: Spring high school graduates residing in HCC's taxing district may qualify for this program. If a student's federal and state grants and scholarships do not fully cover the cost of their degree or certificate, the Eagle Promise scholarship will cover the remaining tuition, fees, and provide a book allowance of up to $500 per semester. Additionally, Eagle Promise students receive support from financial coaches to help them complete their program debt-free.
- Women Who Rock Child Care Scholarship: This scholarship is open to parents pursuing post-secondary education, including certification programs, associate's degrees, or bachelor's degrees. Applicants must have a high school diploma or equivalent and be citizens or legal residents. They should also demonstrate financial need through the Expected Family Contribution (EFC or EPC) from the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) letter.
- HCC Foundation Scholarships: HCC offers a limited number of scholarships to current international students enrolled at the college. These scholarships are for specific HCC students, and payments are submitted to the HCC Foundation.
- F-1 Visa Work Authorization: While international students on F-1 visas are not eligible for financial aid, they are permitted to work up to 20 hours per week on-campus during the academic year. Completing a College Credit Certificate (CCC) program in 2 or more semesters also makes international F-1 visa students eligible to apply for OPT, a one-year work authorization in the United States.
It is important to note that international students must provide proof of sufficient funds to cover academic and living expenses when applying for admission to HCC on an F-1 visa. Additionally, HCC provides financial aid checklists and resources to help students navigate the application process and avoid potential scholarship scams.
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Employment opportunities
International students at Houston Community College (HCC) who take the ESL Program can benefit from improved employment opportunities. The program is designed to help students develop their English language skills and integrate into U.S. culture, which can enhance their job prospects.
The ESL Program at HCC offers two levels, each consisting of 20 contact hours per week for 16 weeks per semester. It includes courses in reading, writing, conversation, and grammar. Additionally, students can take advantage of web-based distance learning (DL) software to improve their English language skills outside of class. This extra practice can further enhance their employment opportunities by improving their English proficiency.
HCC also offers the Adult Education and Literacy (AEL) Program, which includes English as a Second Language (ESL) classes. These classes are designed to help English language learners improve their fluency and learn English at the beginning, intermediate, and advanced levels. The AEL Program also helps students develop job readiness skills and prepare for specific types of employment.
One example of a program that prepares learners for employment is Accelerate Texas. This program combines career skill training with contextualized basic skills, readying adult learners for specific types of employment. English as a Second Language (ESL) adult learners can benefit from this program, as it can be designed to meet their unique needs.
Furthermore, HCC is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer. This means that the college does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, religion, age, veteran status, genetic information, gender identity, or sexual orientation in its programs and activities. This commitment to equal opportunity creates a more inclusive environment for international students and may provide additional employment opportunities within the college itself.
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Frequently asked questions
The ESL (English as a Second Language) program at Houston Community College (HCC) is designed to help international students improve their English language skills before they begin academic courses. The program offers two levels, each consisting of 20 contact hours per week for 16 weeks per semester, covering reading, writing, conversation, and grammar.
International students who cannot demonstrate English language proficiency through exams such as TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE Academic may be required to take the ELS program. Students from certain English-speaking countries, such as the US, UK, Canada, and Australia, are exempt from this requirement.
Students placed in ESL levels 0-2 should contact the ESL department or their Zoom lobby for enrollment. Students in levels 3-4 should meet with an Enrollment Services/Academic Advisor on campus or virtually.
International students on F-1 status must submit a complete application to the Office of International Services & Programs (ISP) by the deadline. They must also provide proof of sufficient funds for academic and living expenses, and all international students are required to carry valid health insurance.
