Seattle Central Community College

Every year, 11,000 American students and approximately 1,000 international students from more than 50 countries choose Seattle Central Community College. Like most accredited, state-supported community colleges, Seattle Central boasts a top-notch faculty, small classes, a variety of study programs, personal attention, and low tuition.

So What Makes Seattle Central Unique?

Out of more than 1,200 community colleges, Seattle Central was chosen by TIME Magazine as "College of the Year" in a one-time study of U.S. colleges and universities.

The New York Times chose 11 community colleges in the United States, including Seattle Central, as "models" for the transfer success of their graduates. The 2007 article, "For High Achievers, a New Destination," focused attention on high achieving students who choose to begin their university degrees at a community college.

Location, Location, Location

Seattle Central is the only community college located in downtown Seattle, Washington. You'll find us on lively Capitol Hill, about a 15 minute walk from the skyscrapers, and surrounded by a variety of restaurants, coffee houses, clubs, movie theaters, and shops. Seattle is safe and friendly, and has been on many national lists of "most livable" cities.

Conditional Transfer Guarantee

Seattle Central international students can receive university transfer offer letters at the same time they are admitted to Seattle Central-- from Purdue University (Indiana campus), San Francisco State University, University of Oregon and other popular institutions.

A Variety of Quality Programs...

• College Bridge: part-time college, part-time ESL studies
• College Transfer: transfer with Junior status to 4-year colleges and universities
• Intensive ESL: a structured, results-oriented program
• High School Completion: earn an Associate's Degree and high school diploma together!
• Short-Term Certificates: (2-9 months), including optional internships
• International Internship: academic training and work experience in local companies and institutions

...with Proven Results

For example:

Students in the College Bridge (CB) program have the option of earning college credit as they continue to develop their English skills. They are guaranteed acceptance into college classes with no further testing. From Fall 2000 - Fall 2002, 87% of the CB graduates continued their studies at Seattle Central. Of these, 93% began full time college level work the next quarter. Overall, the average GPA of our international students in college programs is 3.5 (with 4.0 being perfect).

Money Matters

We offer scholarships for international students (up to $85,000 each year) and a Job Referral Service to help international students find on-campus employment.

Our tuition is approximately $7,800/academic year (three quarters). Housing costs in Seattle are lower than in many other cities, keeping the overall cost of education more affordable.

TOEFL or no TOEFL?

Students may use the TOEFL or IELTS score to enroll directly in any college program. A variety of tests can be used to directly enroll in our College Bridge program. No official test score? No problem! Students can take a placement test upon arrival at Seattle Central.

Housing

Housing options include apartments within walking distance of Seattle Central, and homestays. Airport pickup is also available. For shorter stays, options include a hotel, rooming house, or hostel.

Numerous Services and Resources

• The College Transfer Center assists students as they prepare to transfer to 4-year institutions. Semi-annual International Student University Transfer Fairs draw 40-60 universities from around the USA to recruit our graduates. The Career Information Center, Career Placement Office, and Cooperative Education staff provide assistance with internships, job searches, resumes, letters and interview preparation.
• The International Education Programs (IEP) staff offers orientation services and academic advising. In addition, a professional counselor is assigned to work solely with international students in career, educational and personal counseling.
• The IEP Activities Office organizes several activities and trips each quarter, such as Conversation Partners and local and weekend excursions. Student Leadership offers additional opportunities to get involved with American students and the community.
• Free tutoring is available in many subjects.
• The modern Student Activities Center boasts a weight room, swimming pool, racquetball/squash courts, game room, gymnasium and running track. The Computer Center, Library, Art Gallery and Performance Hall offer numerous other resources and opportunities for Seattle Central students.

Diversity

With approximately 1,000 international students and one of the most diverse American college student populations in the U.S. (as noted by TIME Magazine), our students learn not only from textbooks and teachers, but from classmates, too.

Applying is Easy

International students can enter our programs four times each year: in fall, winter, spring or summer.