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International Students Program (ISP)

Antelope Valley College welcomes international students to apply for associate degrees and associate degrees for transfer! Antelope Valley College is a comprehensive community college in the California Community College System dedicated to providing services to a broad range of students with a variety of educational goals. Antelope Valley College is dedicated to providing educational programs and services as expressed in the California Master Plan for Higher Education. The College is committed to equal educational opportunity and reinforces that commitment through a program of active affirmation of diversity.  

International Flags

Deadlines for scholarship applications are available from Financial Aid. Health insurance is mandatory for all international students prior to the start of your first term at Antelope Valley College Prospective students must complete the necessary Admissions Requirements

Prospective sponsors of an international student or the international student requesting Antelope Valley College to issue an I-20 for an F-1 International Student Visa must fulfill all International Student Admissions Requirements for the college in time to successfully add courses during the desired semester. We recommend that prospective international students follow the suggested application deadlines as indicated below. Applications received after the deadline will be reviewed but are not guaranteed consideration.

Application Suggested Deadlines:

Term

Due Date

   Fall Semester

July 1st

  Spring Semester

                    January 1st                 

          Summer Session      

  May 1st

 

International Student Program (Admissions Forms)

International Student Information  
Sponsor Form    
Transfer Request Form  (Only if transferring from another U.S. School, College or University)  

International Student Resources

Student and Exchange Visa Program

Foreign Transcript Evaluation

Antelope Valley College Requires:

  • The student must contact a listed foreign evaluation agency for an application.  Click here: NACES
  • The student must arrange a word-for-word translation to English of their foreign transcript (AVC does not provide this service)
  • An official evaluation from a listed foreign evaluation agency (evaluation must be sealed to be official)
  • AVC will only allow credit for lower division coursework

International Student Program FAQ:

  Where can I find links related to International Students?

I've been accepted! What are my next steps?

  1. Confirm your acceptance: Inform the college of your decision to enroll.
  2. Pay the SEVIS fee: Once you receive your I-20 form, pay the SEVIS I-901 fee required to maintain your F-1 visa.
  3. Apply for an F-1 visa: Schedule a visa interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate.
  4. Attend the visa interview: Prepare the required documents, including your I-20, passport, proof of finances, and acceptance letter.
  5. Plan your travel: Book flights and arrange accommodations.
  6. Attend orientation: Complete any mandatory pre-departure orientations or checklists from your college.

When will I receive my I-20?

  • Your I-20 is issued after the college has reviewed your financial documents and confirmed that you meet the necessary requirements. It is usually sent via email. Contact the International Students Office if you haven't received it within the expected timeline.

How do I apply for an F-1 Student Visa?

  1. Schedule an appointment: Book an appointment at your local U.S. embassy or consulate.
  2. Gather required documents: Bring your I-20, SEVIS fee receipt, DS-160 visa application confirmation, passport, financial documents, and admission letter.
  3. Attend the interview: Be prepared to discuss your study plans and intent to return to your home country after completing your studies.
  4. Receive your visa: If approved, your passport will be stamped with the F-1 visa.

What is an I-901 fee, and how do I pay?

  • The SEVIS I-901 fee is a mandatory fee for international students in the U.S. You can pay it online at fmjfee.com. Keep the receipt, as you'll need it to present it at your visa interview and upon entering the U.S.

How do I report changes in my personal information or program of study?

  • You must report any changes (such as your address, name, or major) to your school's DSO within 10 days. Failing to do so could jeopardize your F-1 visa status.

What documents do I need when entering the U.S.?

  • Passport with F-1 visa
  • I-20 signed by the Designated School Official (DSO)
  • SEVIS fee payment receipt
  • Financial proof (bank statements, sponsor letters)
  • Acceptance letter from the college

When should I arrive in the U.S.?

  • You can enter the U.S. up to 30 days before the program start date listed on your I-20. Arriving early gives you time to settle in, attend orientation, and prepare for classes.

How do I register for classes?

  • After orientation, meet with a counselor to plan your schedule. Counselors will guide you on course selection based on your program requirements and help you register for classes online or through the school's registration system.

How many units do I need to enroll in to maintain my F-1 visa status?

  • To maintain your F-1 visa status, you must enroll in a full-time course load, 12 units (credits) per semester. Of these, at least 9 units must be taken in person, while up to 3 units can be taken online. This ensures you meet the U.S. Department of Homeland Security requirements for full-time study.

What happens if I take more than 3 units online?

  • F-1 visa regulations allow only 1 online class (up to 3 units) to count toward your full-time enrollment. If you exceed this limit (e.g., 6 online units), those additional online units won't count toward your required 12 units, and your visa status could be at risk. Make sure to balance your schedule with at least 9 in-person units each semester. 

How do I maintain my F-1 visa status?

To maintain F-1 status, you must:

  • Enroll full-time: Typically, this means taking 12 credit hours per semester, including at least 9 in person units
  • Maintain good academic standing
  • Do not work off campus without proper authorization
  • Keep your I-20 updated with current address and program information
  • Request a travel signature on your I-20 if you plan to leave and re-enter the U.S

How do I pay for tuition and fees?

You will need to pay tuition and fees before classes begin. Payment methods may include:

  • Online payment via the college's portal
  • Credit or debit card: Check your college's payment deadlines and procedures to avoid late fees.

Do I need to buy health insurance?

  • Yes, health insurance is required for international students. You will need to provide proof of your own insurance that meets specific requirements. Failure to have coverage can affect your ability to enroll in classes.

How do I open a bank account in the U.S.?

To open a U.S. bank account, visit a local bank with:

  • Passport
  • I-20
  • Proof of U.S. address (e.g. a rental agreement or utility bill)
  • Student ID (if available). Most banks offer accounts specifically for students with low fees

Do I need to take an English proficiency test like TOEFL or IELTS to study at a California community college?

Applicants can demonstrate English proficiency by fulfilling one of the following criteria:

  • TOEFL score to be sent directly from the ETS (AVC ID Code: 4005) with a minimum score of 45 (Internet-based testing) or 450 (paper-based testing). For test sites and schedules, visit www.toefl.org. or IELTS of 5.0. Send an official score report. For test sites and schedules, visit www.ielts.org

Are there any dormitories or other housing on the AVC campus?

Antelope Valley College does not provide on-campus housing, so you'll need to look for off-campus options:

  • Off-campus apartments: Renting an apartment with other students.
  • Homestays: Living with a local family.
  • Shared housing: Rooming with other international or domestic students. Check with the international student office for recommendations or housing lists.

Can I travel during my studies?

  • Yes, but you need a travel signature on your I-20 from your DSO before leaving the U.S. Ensure your F-1 visa is valid for re-entry. If your visa expires while abroad, you will need to renew it at a U.S. consulate before returning.

Can I work while I hold a F-1 visa?

  • As an F-1 student, you can work up to 20 hours per week on campus during the academic year and full time during school breaks. Off-campus work (CPT/OPT) requires prior authorization from your school and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). 

What is a Social Security Number (SSN), and do I need one?

  • A Social Security Number (SSN) is required to work in the U.S. If you are eligible for on-campus employment, you can apply for an SSN after you have a job offer. In order to apply for an SSN, you can apply for a SSN request letter from the DSO.

How can I access campus services as an international student?

Antelope Valley College provides a variety of services to support international students:

  • Academic advising for course planning and degree progress
  • Tutoring centers for academic assistance
  • Counseling services for personal and mental health support
  • Career services to explore employment opportunities and internships
  • International student office for immigration support and cultural integration 

What happens if I fall behind in my studies?

  • If you are struggling academically, seek help as soon as possible. Many colleges offer tutoring services, study groups, and counseling. If you cannot maintain full-time enrollment or are on academic probation, discuss your options with the international student advisor to avoid violating your visa status.

What is OPT and how do I file?

Optional Practical Training (OPT) is temporary employment that is directly related to the student's major. 

  • Must apply after DSO enters the recommendation for OPT in SEVIS
  • May apply up to 90 days before you complete a full academic year