Accessibility and the PCC web site.

Newly Admitted Students: Upon Arrival

Arrival Steps (ALL newly admitted students):

  1. Check-in: 
    • On or before the date indicated in your acceptance letter students must check in to the International Student Office.  Failure to do so will result in SEVIS record and U.S. Imigration status problems.
    • Overseas students cannot enter the United States 30 days prior to the program start date on the I-20 Form. 
    • Submit:
  2. Attend International Students Orientation:
    • By U.S. immigration law, all F-1 visa students are required to attend orientation. 
    • At the orientation, you will learn more about our college, become familiar with your academic and degree requirements, understand Immigration and employment requirements, and meet new friends.
    • Students who miss orientation will NOT receive a Student ID, SEVIS registration, placement testing, a registration date for classes, and will miss out on tickets for trips to Disneyland and Huntington Library and Botanical Gardens
    • Orientation for spring semester is early January
      Orientation for fall semester is early July
    • See workshops link for exact dates and follow the instruction on your acceptance letter for detailed information on orientation.
  3. Placement Tests:
    • All new international students are required to take English and Math placement tests. 
    • If you have attended college, this requirement may be waived.  Visit the PCC Advising Center at L-103 with appropriate official transcripts (in English) to get a waiver.
  4. Academic Counseling: All International Students will be assigned to attend a 2 ½ hour group counseling with a counselor who will help you select your classes.
  5. Register for Classes: A specific date will be assigned for all new international students to register for classes in groups. To maintain full-time student status you must enroll in at least 12 units each Fall and Spring semester.
  6. Workshops: All international students are required to attend workshops on International Student Benefits, Health Services, Employment, and Transfer. See the workshop schedule and register.