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The International Programs staff is available to answer any questions regarding studying at Whatcom Community College as an international student.

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Commonly Asked Questions

Please see the information below regarding frequently asked questions. If you are unable to find an answer to your question, please fill out the form above or email international@whatcom.edu.

FAQs

What can I study?

English Speakers of Other Languages Academic classes, university transfer, and/or professional-technical programs. View the Programs of Study page for specific program information.
How long will it take to graduate?

Students who begin their studies in the WCC English Speakers of Other Languages Academic program take approximately 3 years to complete an Associate in Arts and Sciences degree.
Do I have to study English?

Students take an English language placement test prior to registering for classes which will determine where they begin their studies. Students can begin their studies in the English Speakers of Other Languages Academic (ESOL) classes, a combination of ESOL courses and college-level courses, or college-level courses.
Do I need to take the TOEFL?

No TOEFL or other standardized test score is required for admission to the WCC English Speakers of Other Languages Academic program, although a 61 internet-based TOEFL score (or equivalent) allows students to enroll in at least one college-level course. Once a student has completed the highest level of any intensive course (Level 5 Grammar & Writing, Level 5 Reading, and/or Level 5 Oral Communication), he or she may enroll in a college-level course without additional testing.
Can I transfer from another school?

Students currently in the U.S. and studying on an F-1 visa can transfer from another school once they have applied and been accepted to Whatcom Community College. After they are accepted to Whatcom, they will need to request that their SEVIS record be transferred from their current school to Whatcom. Once the SEVIS record is transferred, Whatcom will issue a new I-20.
When should I arrive?

Students entering the U.S. on an F-1 visa can enter the U.S. no more than 30 days before the start of the quarter. Students who arrive at SeaTac Airport on a suggested arrival date will be met at SeaTac by one of our staff members.
When can I start living with my homestay hosts?

Students can begin living with their homestay hosts about a week before the quarter begins. We recommend students begin living at their homestay on a suggested arrival date.
Where can I live?

Whatcom offers a homestay program for students who are under 18 years old. Students who are 18 years old (or older) can apply for on-campus housing in Cedar Hall – Whatcom’s 230 bed residence hall. Although students are not required to live on-campus it can be very difficult to arrange housing off-campus in Bellingham, especially for international students.

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