Portland Community College | Portland, Oregon

How could a new US President impact me studying in the US?

As U.S. government administration changes, it is important to double check policies and regulations. Always use official sources and email international@pcc.edu if you have questions. Here are a few government websites we know to provide accurate information when it comes to your F-1 status:

• Study in the States (US Department of Homeland Security website)
• US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)
• EducationUSA (US Department of State)

How do I apply to PCC?

• It is very simple to apply. Complete the online application and upload the required documents (copy of your passport, transcripts, and financial documents, etc.). We do not require SAT/ACT/TOEFL/IELTS testing scores. There is no application fee or mailing fee.
• Watch “Applying to PCC is Quick and Easy!“
• Ready to apply? Apply now!

What if I do not have English proficiency?

• English proficiency is NOT required for admission to PCC, but you may be exempted from the ESOL placement testing and ESOL program if you are able to show proof of English proficiency in a document from this list.

What does it cost to apply to PCC?

• It is free to apply to PCC – we do not have an application fee.
• Students will need to pay their SEVIS fee (I-901) after they are admitted to PCC and before their visa interview.

How can I prepare for my visa interview?

• A consular officer will interview you to determine your qualifications for a student visa, and may request additional documents and questions around such as evidence of:
  • Your academic preparation, such as:
    • Transcripts, diplomas, degrees, or certificates from schools you attended; and
    • Standardized test scores required by your U.S. school;
  • Your intent to depart the United States upon completion of the course of study; and
  • How you will pay all educational, living and travel costs.

  Review the instructions for how to apply for a visa on the website of the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you will apply.

When will I get my I-20 from PCC?

• Once your application is complete, with all required documents submitted, the OISS Admissions team will review your application. Please make sure to log into the application portal regularly until you are admitted to see if there are any requests for new documents to be resubmitted, as well as status updates. The sooner you can resubmit any necessary documents, the sooner we can finish your application. Once your application is complete and we have all of the correct documents, it can take up to 4 weeks for an admissions decision.

I have been admitted to PCC, but I want to wait and start in another term at PCC. What should I do?

• Congratulations on your acceptance to PCC! You can defer (or move) your acceptance to another term by contacting our International Admissions team.

What is the orientation hold?

• Each international student admitted to PCC must attend our mandatory orientation. You can find out more on our Orientation webpage. Once you have completed Orientation Week, your hold will be removed.

Do I have to pay for tuition before I arrive?

• No, new F-1 international students will learn how to pay their tuition and fees during Orientation. New F-1 international students have until the first day of classes to pay their tuition and fees in their first term. Each term after, students must follow the tuition payment deadline on the payment due dates webpage.

When can I register for classes?

• New F-1 international students will register for classes during Orientation week.

Can I work?

• 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 for students such as working in the library, cafeteria, office of international student services, tutoring, etc.

Can I bring family members or dependents?

• Yes, students who wish to bring their spouse and or children with them must include that information in the application. An I-20 will be created for the student, plus all dependents listed. Additional finances are required when requesting to bring dependents.