Frequently Asked Questions

Once you have been admitted, the International Student Program will issue you an I-20 Form along with an acceptance letter which provides instructions about the use of the I-20

The student visa (F-1) application process must be completed through the U.S. Embassy/Consulate located in your country. Before you apply, contact the Consulate to verify the requirements for processing your student visa. Usually the requirements for a student visa are the following:

• Current Passport
• I-20 Form/Acceptance Letter
• Affidavit of Financial Support
• SEVIS and Visa Application Fee

Note: Other documents such as prior U.S. transcripts and I-20s may be requested.

The U.S. Department of State recently announced a big change in the U.S. visa regulations for F-2 visa holders (dependent spouses and children of F-1 students). As of May 29, 2015, spouses and children of F-1 students in the U.S. with valid F-2 visas may enroll in college courses for credit as long as their enrollment is less than 12 units each Fall and Spring semester. An F-2 visa holder interested in enrolling at Golden West College will have to meet the general admission requirements and follow the application procedures of the college. F-2 dependent applicants will need to either have graduated high school or be over 18 years old and apply for admission using the district website www.cccapply.org. F-2 visa holders who are in high school and wish to attend the college should inquire with their high school counselor about how to apply as a high school student.

Please contact the Enrollment Center (714-895-8306) with questions about enrolling at Golden West.

GWC operates year-round. Full-semester courses are usually 16 weeks long, with Fall semesters beginning in late-August and Spring semesters in late-January. Summer classes are offered in sessions lasting from 4 to 8 weeks. There are also short-term courses that begin at different times within the year.

Report to the International Student Program to complete the processing of your documents and for assistance in scheduling appointments on campus.

• Take the assessment test
• See your appointed academic counselor
• Register for classes and pay your tuition
• Attend the new international student orientation
• Purchase your book
• Attend class