8 best international colleges in Los Angeles, California 2025

Did you know that in the United States about 35% of all students attend community colleges? There are about 1,050 community colleges in the country, of which the vast majority are publicly funded, while some are private institutions with two-degree programs. The community colleges take various forms; they include Junior Colleges, Technical Colleges, and City Colleges.

Community colleges differ from universities as they put more emphasis on practical skills training which allows students to quickly enter the job market. Generally, the amount of work required at a community college in Los Angeles is less than at a university. Many graduates of these community colleges proceed successfully to higher studies, using the community college diploma as a stepping stone towards entry to a four-year college or university.

Community colleges in Los Angeles offer programs including associate degree programs and full-time English. The best colleges in Los Angeles also offer one-year programs in various fields, awarding a certificate of completion. 

Kevin McDonnell

Specialist in International Students of the University of Sussex

What advice would you give to potential students before applying to a university?

Be proactive and start your application early, ideally almost a year in advance. Seek recommendations from your teachers and academic advisors. The earlier you apply, the more time universities have to consider your application, and the more time you have to explore your options and make an informed decision.

• Studying at community colleges in Los Angeles comes with several benefits:
• Cost Savings: Savings on tuition fees can be between $40,000 to $50,000 over two years.
• Gradual transition: It is much easier for an international student to adapt to the life of a university if such transition is gradual. Additionally, students may find time for part-time work or language courses.
• Seamless transition: Graduates of community colleges can find themselves directly transferring into the second and third years of the university, with 50% of all Americans with bachelor's degrees having started at a two-year college.
• Less competition in admissions: Entry requirements in community colleges are usually less stringent than at universities; in some cases, SAT or ACT scores may not even be necessary. The lower level of competition can provide access to those with varying levels of preparation.
• Early Enrollment: International students can enroll in community colleges even at the age of 16, while universities require an age limit of 18.

The requirements of 2-year colleges will generally be easier than those of universities. Three main documents are usually required:

• Proof of secondary education completion along with an academic transcript.
• TOEFL or IELTS scores.
• SAT score: In rare cases, colleges may accept a high school graduation certificate instead of SAT scores.

Many colleges do not require SAT exams, as most colleges admit all applicants. Students aged 16 apply for college, and the application process is often completed through the school's website. 

Graduates of 2-year colleges with associate degrees can pursue enrollment in any U.S. university as third-year students, including Ivy League institutions. Transferring to top-tier institutions like Harvard can be a tough nut to crack, but it is easier for lower-tier universities.

Many colleges and universities have Articulation Agreements, usually including one particular college having agreements with many U.S. universities. For instance, the American Academy of Dramatic Art; students graduating from it get the Associate's Degree with the option of transferring to other colleges and universities to continue their studies and earn their Bachelor's degrees. The Academy works with schools like St. John's University, Antioch University, Hunter College, and Oklahoma City University. 

It's advisable to select a university for transfer early in your community college journey, ensuring that you fulfill the necessary requirements:

• Maintain a good GPA, typically around 3.5 for prestigious universities.
• Align your coursework with your future bachelor's program; matching academic subjects is crucial.
• Demonstrate English proficiency, often at a B2 level with scores of 65 or higher on TOEFL.
• SAT or ACT scores, which may be waived by universities with partner programs.

Overall, prestigious universities tend to have more stringent requirements. To get detailed information about specific requirements, consult the official university websites.The academic year typically begins in September and concludes in June, divided into two 15-week semesters, each followed by tests and exams. Students generally enjoy summer vacations.

To earn an associate degree, students need to accumulate 60 credits, equivalent to two years of study. One credit represents one academic hour of lessons per week during one semester.

Many colleges in Los Angeles offer on-campus housing options, including hostels, host families, or rented apartments. On-campus facilities often include academic buildings, libraries, art centers, museums, cafeterias, shops, shopping centers, gyms, sports grounds, and stadiums. Colleges with a technical focus are also equipped with laboratories.

It is possible that the costs associated with attending colleges in the city of Los Angeles might differ significantly depending on the type of college, level of study, and whether it is public or private. Los Angeles also hosts a variety of colleges and universities that may offer different programs and degrees.

In the California college system, including schools within the UC or CSU, public colleges and universities generally charge lower tuition for in-state residents than foreign students. Tuition for international students at public universities is about $15,000-$30,000 per year. Tuition at private universities in Los Angeles, including USC or Occidental college, is generally much higher, ranging from $40,000 to $60,000 or more per year.

Besides tuition, when considering the total cost of studying Los Angeles, foreign students should also take into account other expenses such as accommodation, textbooks, living expenses, and health insurance. It is necessary to check with specific institutions, investigate scholarship options, grants, and various financial aid opportunities available for international students, and plan finances carefully in order to make studying in Los Angeles a feasible and wonderful experience. Inquire about financial aid as many colleges and universities in Los Angeles offer scholarships to assist with costs for foreign students.