Preparing for Community College in Rhode Island

Preparing for community college in the USA involves a similar process across all states. Here you'll find both academic and personal factors to consider when preparing to make your community college application.

Please note that the information below is a general guide for students preparing to attend an American community college, and applies to all states. For the most current and specific details, students should therefore also refer to individual state higher education agencies, as well as individual colleges.

Academic:
International students applying directly from high school to a community college in the USA should begin planning early, since community colleges in the USA--or particular programs within a college--can be competitive.

Academic preparation means making sure you have the necessary courses and grades to be accepted into the community college you want. This will largely depend on the program you hope to apply to. For instance, if you are considering a science or technology-based program versus a more general program. Communication skills are important in any field, and English and math are the most-often required courses for admission into community colleges in the USA. Some community colleges also have a minimum cut-off average for general admission (usually between 60-70%). Quota or other limited-enrollment and highly competitive programs may require a higher average and more specific course requirements.

Community colleges in the USA usually require international students to demonstrate proficiency in the language of instruction (English), if it is not their first/native language. The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) is commonly accepted, but US colleges may have their own tests or evaluation procedures, or may accept other English tests, such as the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) or Test of English for International Communication (TOEIC). Confirm language requirement details with the college before you apply.

Community college websites, online student handbooks or admissions offices are the best sources of academic preparation information. Be sure to read up on specific application requirements (reports and transcripts, document translation requirements, letters of recommendation, personal essays, portfolio, etc). Preparing for community college in the USA also means getting your paperwork completed and organized (read more in our How to Apply and Student Visas sections).

Personal:
In addition to academic preparation, there's a lot you can do in your home country to prepare personally.

Get more familiar with the language of instruction, which is English: read English-language books, magazines or newspapers (either print or online); watch English TV or films; practice your conversation with any English-speaking friends you may know. To improve the vocabulary and comprehension skills for your program, do some reading in the area you hope to study in English.

Community college admissions committees are often interested in an international student's personal qualities, which can be developed through extracurricular activities. Consider joining or even starting high school clubs, whether related to your area of interest or not: this is a good way to demonstrate leadership skills. Be able to show involvement and success within and outside the classroom.

Prove your work ethic. Community college study in the USA is rigorous; therefore, work experience -- paid or volunteer -- is an achievement regarded highly by admissions committees. Any work experience related to your chosen field is extremely beneficial.

Contact other international students already studying at the college. Many community colleges have international student offices and/ or groups that can put you in touch with an international student who can share his or her experience and advice on what to expect and how best to prepare.