International Links
What do I have to do to get accepted to Bakersfield College?
You will need to complete an international student's application and submit the application with all applicable admission requirements such as:- TOEFL score of 450 (133 CBT). See information on other acceptable forms of language assessments on the admissions form.
- Essay describing your reasons for applying to Bakersfield College
- Official transcripts from your secondary school and/or college or university. If the transcript is not in English, you will need to have an official translation in English
- Financial statement showing that you have the required $15000 USC for tuition and estimated living expenses.
- $50.00 USD nonrefundable application fee.
- You must sign your application with supporting documents to Bakersfield College, International Admissions.
Note: If your application is missing any of the above requirements, your application will not be evaluated and you will be notified by e-mail. No admission decision will be made until your application and all admission requirements are submitted.
What are the application deadlines?
The application deadlines are as follows:
Fall Semester April 15
Spring Semester October 15
How much is the tuition?
The tuition for international students accepted to the academic program for 2011-2012 is as follows:
- Non-resident Tuition $190.00 USD per unit
- Enrollment fee $ 46.00 USD per unit
- Capital Outlay Fee $ 30.00 USD per unit
- BC Health and other fees $ 19.00 USD per semester
- Housing Off-Campus and living expenses $800.00 USD per month
- Text Books and Supplies $500.00 USD per semester
Tuition and fees are subject to change
What about housing accommodations?
It is recommended that you plan ahead before your arrival at Bakersfield College. There are many apartments for rent right across the campus. but, you must plan ahead of time. You can stay in a hotel or a motel while you are searching for an apartment. Remember, securing housing takes time and the International Education Program is closed on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
Upon arrival, you may visit the International Student Program to review other options such as roommates wanted and room for a rent list.
When should I arrive at Bakersfield College?
In general, students should try to arrive a month prior to the beginning of the semester they have been admitted to. Newly admitted students must register online for the International Orientation that is scheduled to start one week prior to the start of the semester. We encourage newly admitted students to arrive at Bakersfield College at least one month prior to the beginning of the semester they have been admitted to in order to secure space in the classes.
What about financial aid to International Students?
Bakersfield College does not offer financial aid to international students on a visa.
Once you have been admitted to Bakersfield College and have completed 12 or more units, you may apply for scholarships based on academic performance. Many international students have been awarded scholarships of $200-500 for an academic year.
As an international student, can I work?
As an international student, you are allowed to work on campus part-time, less than 20 hours per week, during the academic year. Off-campus employment is not permitted, except with the permission of the immigration office.
An F-1 student, after completion of a year of academic work in the US, can apply for employment off-campus through the office of International Student Services. There are two types of employment, or OPT. The first option is called Optional Practical Training based on economic hardship. The second is OPT after completion. In both cases, students will be required to meet with the intermodal counselor and submit proper forms to the USCIS.
