Application Process
International Students will be considered for admission to Los Angeles Valley College if all of the following requirements are met:

• All students must be 18 years of age or older to be eligible to apply, or have a Guardian Statement if below 18 years of age.
• Admission Application - Apply On-line by the due date. It is imperative that all questions are answered correctly. Note: The online application contains questions about your visa status under the area "Visa and Dependent Information. "If you have an F-1 Visa, please enter the information as stated on your visa.
• One Passport size photograph
• Student Information Sheet - Must be fully completed and signed.
• Application Processing Fee – There is a non-refundable application fee of $50 to be paid online with credit or debit card.
• Confidential Financial Statement - Complete a confidential financial statement. The total amount must reflect the required annual fees.
• Passport - Provide a copy of your passport
• Visa Information - Provide copies of your visa and I-94 (if applicable)
• English Language Requirement – Student must have English language proficiency. The following methods may be used to show proficiency:
  • Original academic transcripts showing six semesters of High School (Secondary School) English or above, or
  • Original TOEFL score of 45 IBT, 133 CBT or 450 PBT, or
  • IELTS score of 4
• English Language Requirement for English As A Second Language Certificate program – Student must have original academic transcripts showing four semesters of English language studies at High School (Secondary School), or language institute.
  • For two-year certificate programs, student must have original academic transcripts showing two semesters of English language studies at High School (Secondary School), or language institute.
• Academic Records – Provide notarized copies of your High School (Secondary School) diploma and transcripts if they are in English. If your High School diploma and transcripts are not in English, you must submit translated and notarized copies as well as the copies from the original documents. Do not send your original documents to us.

Once you are admitted to the college, we will send you a Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status, more commonly known as an I-20.

To prevent delays in processing your application, download the Application Checklist and Deadline to ensure your application is complete.

Upon acceptance, complete the following tasks before you arrive to the United States:

• Pay I-901 SEVIS Fee. See video available on Study in the States website for instructions how to pay the I-901 SEVIS fee by payment in U.S. dollars by credit card on fmjfee.com, or by check, money order or Western Union.
• Apply and obtain an F-1 International Student Visa using the DS-160, Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application form. Contact the U.S. Embassy or U.S. Consulate’s office for exact information regarding documents needed and procedures when applying. For additional information visit www.UnitedStatesVisas.us and for information on Overseas Educational Advising Center locations and services, visit http://educationusa.state.gov and http://travel.state.gov
• Bring your I-20 and the receipt of your I-901 SEVIS fee to your interview with the U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Here are some suggestions how to prepare for your interview:
  • English. Anticipate that the interview will be conducted in English and not in your native language. If possible, practice conversing in English with a native speaker before your interview.
  • Be Concise. Due to the volume of applications received, consular officers are under considerable time pressure. They must make a decision on the impressions they form during the first minute or two of the interview. Consequently, what you say and the initial impression you create are critical to the success of your interview. Keep your answers short and to the point.
  • Supplemental Documentation. It should be clear to the consular officer at a glance what written documents you are presenting and what purpose they serve. Prove you are a serious student by drawing attention to academic honors or excellence you have already demonstrated.
  • Ties to Your Home Country. U.S. law requires all applicants for nonimmigrant visas to be viewed as intending immigrants. You need to convince the consular officer otherwise. You should be able to show you have reasons for returning to your home country. Economic and social ties are crucial. Bring documentation.
  • Know the Program and How it Fits Your Career Plans. If you are unable to articulate your reasons for studying a particular program in the United States, you may not convince the consular officer that you are a serious student. You should be able to explain how studying in the U.S. relates to future career objectives when you return home.
  • Employment. Your main purpose in coming to the United States should be to study. You should be able to afford to pay for school, related expenses and the cost of living without working.
  • Maintain A Positive Attitude. If your application is denied, find out why so it won’t happen again.
• Complete New Student Orientation
  • Log in to your Los Angeles Community College District (LACCD) Student Portal. Select the Student Status tile, select Orientation from the menu and complete the presentation. You will receive a confirmation certificate upon completion.

Arrive to the United States 30 days prior to the start of the semester to participate in mandatory International Students Welcome Week activities scheduled by the college that include:

• Attending a Check-In session
• Attending an in-person New International Student Orientation. This orientation will cover information related to international student status maintenance and requirements.
• Meeting with a Counselor to plan and enroll in your first semester courses.
• Paying your fees. Tuition and fees are due at the time of registration. You may pay your fees in-person in the Business Office, or online from your student portal.