FAQ's in response to COVID 19. *As of May 27, 2020
Will classes be offered online for the Fall 2020?*
Yes, Orange Coast College recently announced that the majority of classes will be offered online for the Fall 2020 semester. Class registration opens on June 15.
Can I take classes online in my home country? Do you I need an F-1 visa?*
Yes, absolutely! Online classes can be taken anywhere in the world as long as you have a computer and strong internet connection. You would not need to apply for an F-1 visa if you are taking classes remotely outside of the U.S.
I am currently outside the U.S., would I be able to apply for an F-1 visa for the Fall 2020 semester?
The current situation presents challenges in applying and obtaining an F-1 visa for Fall 2020. This includes temporary suspension of issuance of the all immigrant and non-immigrant visas and border restrictions of citizens from certain countries. The OCC Global Engagement Center is in touch with the U.S. Department of State and will provide updates as announcements are made. In the meantime, it is recommended that new students prepare for remote instruction for the Fall 2020 and defer arrival to the U.S. for a future semester, hopefully the Spring 2021.
Citizens of Canada: You are not required to apply for an F-1 visa at the U.S. Embassy to attend Orange Coast College. You would need to submit financial documents with your admissions application to receive a Form I-20, required to enter the U.S. border.
**Excluded are students from First Nations protected by the Jay's Treaty who may freely enter the U.S. to study and work visa free but must apply for admissions to OCC online on OpenCCC.
I am a transfer student and want to apply to OCC? Will I receive a form I-20?
Yes, after you are admitted to OCC you must request your SEVIS record to be transferred to OCC within 60 days of the last day of your program to receive a new Form I-20.
When does OCC expect to reopen all on campus operations and instruction?*
We are hopeful that we will reopen all on campus operations and instruction in Spring 2021. However, Orange Coast College is following state and federal guidelines to reopen safely. We will provide updates as we receive official announcements.
Are the fees reduced for online classes?*
If you are taking classes online in your home country, the total cost of attendance is reduced as you would only pay for tuition based on the number of classes you register for. To cost per semester unit for non-resident tuition is $346.00.
If you intend to stay in the U.S. (i.e. transfer students), you would need to provide proof of available funds for the first year of study to be issued a form I-20. You must also be enrolled full-time, a minimum of 12 units to remain in active status with SEVIS. Visit the Cost of Attendance website for details.
I have concerns taking online classes, what is OCC doing to help international students?*
We absolutely understand the challenges of adapting to online and remote learning. However, please rest assured that OCC has always and will continue to support international students as a priority. Since COVID-19, we included online webinars, tutorials, virtual meetings and town halls and working on a lot more to make your experience with us personal. If you have specific questions please reach out to us! We are here to help.
How is COVID-19 affecting admissions processing for international students?
All OCC students services are currently being operated remotely online. There may be delays in admission decisions and application follow up but we are committed to provide updates to our website and by email as necessary.
To assist us, please submit COMPLETED applications by email to
occinternational@cccd.edu. Make sure you configure your email account to ensure all communication from us is not being sent to junk mail or spam.
May I apply for the Summer 2020 and Fall 2020 semester?
Yes, we are accepting applications for full time, part time current enrollment, and conditional admissions for the Summer 2020 and Fall 2020 semesters.
May I apply for on-campus housing?
Yes! On campus housing is still on schedule for Fall 2020 move in. There are two separate applications you must complete to apply for on-campus housing:
International Students application: email your complete application packet to
occinternational@ccccd.edu. We will email your OCC ID number when your application has been processed.
On-campus housing application: submit your application at https://theharbourocc.com/ after you receive your OCC ID number.
I cannot (sit for) an English assessment test in person because centers in my area are closed, how can I meet the English proficiency requirement?
We will review all your academic transcripts starting from secondary school/high school and provide guidance on what you need to meet our requirement.
You may also take the
TOEFL iBT Special Home Edition or Duolingo English Test to fulfill our English proficiency requirement online.
When will I hear back after submitting my application?
Incomplete Applications: A follow up email will be sent with the list of required documents up to 14 business days upon receiving your application.
Complete applications: Acceptances will be sent by email with MyCoast login information after April 13, 2020.
Can I still apply for the IEC at OCC (Intensive English Language Program)?
Yes, visit IEC at OCC for details.
What do I do after I am accepted to OCC?
Are campus tours being offered?
Not at this time. But there are several ways you can connect with us! Sign up for a virtual information session, chat with us on Unibuddy! or DM us on Facebook or Instagram @occinternationals.
Who may I contact for more information?
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Are you looking for someone in your country to learn about study in the USA? EducationUSA is free advising center sponsored by the US State Department for
international students interested in studying in the US. There are more than 300 centers worldwide. Find one in your local area by clicking on the icon.
*Information regarding admissions, including the cost of attendance, can change without prior notice.