About Community College of Philadelphia

Community College of Philadelphia is an open-admission, associate’s degree-granting institution. The College offers more than 60 degree programs in the arts, science, business, health care, science and technology, humanities and social and human services. The College draws students from a wide range of ages and backgrounds and seeks to provide the programs and support they need to achieve their goals in a caring environment which is intellectually and culturally dynamic.

Why Study at the College?

With more than 60 degree programs, excellent student services, numerous student life activities and a diverse student population, Community College of Philadelphia is your path to success.

• Small Class Sizes — The College's average class size is 22 students, so you get more personalized instruction from your professors.
• Individualized Attention — Our experienced staff will help make your transition to the United States, Philadelphia and the College a successful one.
• Honors Program — A Liberal Arts focus creates a learning community that gives you the maximum opportunity to get to know faculty and fellow students, as well as the opportunity to be challenged and improve critical thinking skills.
• Cost-effective, Quality Education — We provide an affordable, top-quality education that will prepare you for a career or transfer to a four-year college or university.
• Exciting Urban Location — Situated near the heart of Philadelphia, the College is easily accessible by train, bus and automobile and offers convenient access to the city’s rich array of cultural activities, world-class cuisine, exceptional theatre and arts district and vibrant nightlife. Philadelphia, one of the most historic cities in the country, is also the fifth largest city in the United States and the second largest city on the East Coast.
• International Culture — We have a diverse and culturally rich student population, with more than 200 international students from more than 50 different countries, as well as regional students who represent many cultural and ethnic backgrounds.

Academic Programs

We offer three types of associate's degrees: Associate in Arts (A.A.), Associate in Science (A.S.) and Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.). Students may choose a major from a variety of options in art, science, business, technology and liberal arts.

English as a Second Language (ESL) Courses

At the College, you can improve your English language skills. You will take a placement test and discuss your results with a counselor, then we will help you pick classes that best suit your needs. Our ESL courses will help you get the most out of your experience in the United States. Class instruction is enhanced by tutoring, academic advising and group workshops.

Transfer Opportunities

Our specialized Dual Admissions programs and transfer agreements facilitate a smooth transition to a four-year university or college.

With Dual Admissions programs, admission to your school of choice is guaranteed after you graduate from the College. Choose from twelve institutions in the Philadelphia area:

Arcadia University
Cabrini College
Chestnut Hill College
Cheyney University
Eastern University
Holy Family University
Immaculata University
La Salle University
Peirce College
Rosemont College
St. Joseph's University (College of Professional and Liberal Studies)
Temple University

The College makes it easy to transfer seamlessly to a four-year institution. We have agreements with more than 20 area institutions, including:

Bloomsburg University
Kutztown University
Moore College of Art & Design
Philadelphia University
Rowan University
Thomas Jefferson University
University of the Arts
West Chester University
Widener University

International Student Services

International Student Services (ISS) provides many resources for international students who are in F-1 nonimmigrant status. We offer individual advising and services in the following areas:

• Immigration matters, such as obtaining F-1 student visas, maintaining full-time enrollment and traveling outside of the United States
• Employment regulations and options related to work authorization
• Information about medical insurance coverage
• Adjustment to the College and to life in Philadelphia and the United States
• Help obtaining a driver's license or identification card
• Counseling for course and program planning

Activities

Life outside of the classroom is also important. Make the most of your college experience by getting involved in some of the College’s many activities. Join a club, become a student ambassador, get involved with student government, attend a lecture or catch a film.

A sample of student clubs, activities and organizations include:

• Earth Watch Alliance (EWA)
• International Student Club
• Filipino Student Association
• Asian American Student Association
• Phi Theta Kappa International Honor Society
• Student Ambassadors
• Student Government Association (SGA)
• Vanguard Student Newspaper

Admission

International applicants should submit an application along with supporting academic and financial documents. The international application and instructions can be found on the College Web site. All new students will be tested in English and mathematics upon arrival and subsequently placed in their appropriate level. TOEFL exam results are not required. Accepted students will be issued an I-20 in order to apply for an F-1 student visa. Please note our application deadlines, which are July 1 for the fall semester and November 1 for the spring semester.