Sierra College is dedicated to serving the academic and cultural needs of our international students. Sierra has an International Students Office with staff focused on meeting the needs of our international students. With a ratio of approximately one support staff member to 30 students, our international students receive the help they need in order to succeed at Sierra College and at living in America.
Annual Cost Estimate
Annual tuition and fees, based on 12 units per semester, is about one half the cost of California State Universities, and one third the cost of the Universities of California. Estimated living expenses, including personal expenses, vary based on student preferences. The total annual cost estimate, including tuition, fees, housing, medical and food is very reasonable when compared to universities.
Program Size
Sierra's International program averages around 170 international students, from many countries. The entire student population of the college averages approximately 22,000, which provides an excellent opportunity for international students to be in an English speaking environment.
Orientation Program
Upon arrival, our new international students are warmly greeted. Once comfortably settled in their new homes, our orientation helps them understand education in America, learn about the many Sierra College support services and how to make a smooth transition to American culture. Students also learn life skills including banking, getting a driver's license, shopping, living in America and working with the USCIS (United States Citizenship and Immigration Services). There is a special trip to San Francisco for international students. This is a time to shop, see the sites and make some new friends.
Academic Counseling
Each student receives personalized academic advising from one of our highly skilled and experienced counselors. By meeting together at least once a semester, counselors help students set educational goals and develop educational plans that will help them meet their goals. Counselors help students get ready to graduate from Sierra College or to transfer to a four-year university. Once a student is proficient at English, they begin their college courses. So, two years of college courses at Sierra College + two years at a university = Bachelor's Degree.
Achievement
International students at Sierra College do very well, with a typical grade point average of 3.18, on a 4.0 scale. Transfer rates are exceptionally high and Sierra College international students have successfully transferred to UC Berkeley, UCLA, UC Davis, CSU Sacramento and San Francisco State to name a few.
Support Services
Sierra College cares about the academic success of international students, as well as their personal success and understanding of American culture. The counselors and international program staff are available to answer any questions that may arise, issues involving cultural or social interactions, temporary living in America, or even the USCIS. Students are encouraged to join clubs, attend social events and make new friends.