California College of the Arts

International Student FAQ


Am I considered an international applicant?
You are considered an international applicant if you need a Visa in order to study or live in the United States. Individuals who are U.S. citizens, green card holders, or permanent residents of the United States, regardless of where they live or go to school, are not considered international applicants.

Are there special admission requirements for undergraduate international students?
Yes. In addition to the standard admission requirements to CCA, undergraduate international applicants must submit their proof of English language proficiency (see International Applicants). They must also submit a Declaration of Finances, which includes a letter from their parent or sponsor and an official bank statement demonstrating their ability to cover the cost of attending CCA for at least one year (approximately $41,000 for 2007–8). If sponsored by someone other than parents, a letter of support must accompany the official bank statement. International applicants must also provide a certified translation of all documents (transcripts, diplomas, letters of recommendation, financial statements). There is no specific form for the Declaration of Finances.

How long will it take to receive an admissions decision from CCA?
Typically it takes three weeks upon completing your admissions application to receive an admissions decision. Remember that we need all of your documents before a decision can be made: your proof of English language proficiency, transcripts, essay, portfolio, and letters of recommendation. For some international applicants we may require a telephone interview before making an admission decision. We strongly suggest that you include your email address and fax number on your application to expedite communication.

What is the application deadline?
We strongly suggest that international applicants apply by the fall 2007 priority deadline of February 1 in order to be considered for merit scholarships. We will, however, accept applications after the priority deadline.

Does CCA offer an intensive English language program?
Beginning summer 2007, CCA will host an intensive English language program.

Undergraduate students who need to improve their English skills before entering the college have the convenience of attending a language center with several locations in the Bay Area. ELS Language Centers has been conducting intensive English training since 1961. Students are able to fulfill our language entry requirement by completing level 112 in the ELS program instead of meeting the TOEFL score requirement. In addition, the college will issue conditional letters of acceptance to ELS students who have met all other CCA undergraduate admissions requirements. To learn more, visit ELS Language Centers or contact the assistant director of international admissions.

Do you offer campus housing to undergraduate international students?
Yes. Undergraduate International students are guaranteed on-campus housing at CCA.

Please see Housing for information on how to apply for campus housing.

How much does it cost to attend CCA?
For the 2007–8 school year, we estimate that it will cost a student $41,000 to attend CCA. This includes tuition and fees of $24,640, residence hall fees of $8,230, and an estimated cost of $5,385 for food, books and supplies, personal expenses, and transportation.

International students must document that they have resources of at least $41,000 before CCA will issue an I-20.

Does CCA offer financial aid to international students?
International students are eligible for all merit scholarships. Undergraduate scholarships range from $4,000 to $15,000. Scholarships are issued based on the strength of a student's portfolio and academic success. All undergraduate students meeting the priority deadline of February 1 for the fall 2007 semester will be considered eligible. International students are not eligible for need-based financial aid. Additional sources of financial aid for international students can be found at www.edupass.org.

How do I obtain an F-1 Visa?
First you must apply to CCA and be accepted for admission. Once you have been admitted to the college, you will be mailed an I-20 request form along with your acceptance letter. (You can also download the form as a PDF.) Upon receiving the completed I-20 application and a bank statement showing a minimum of US$41,000, we will send you an I-20. This document, a copy of your bank statement, and your letter of acceptance must be presented to a U.S. embassy or consulate to obtain a student visa (F-1) for entry to the United States. To maintain F-1 student status, you must carry a full-time load of courses (at least 12 units) per semester.