What programs can I study at Rochester Community and Technical College?
F-1 visa seekers/holders must adhere to all US guidelines for international students, including restrictions on online courses and programs. Due to these policies, RCTC can only offer specific programs of study to international students. The most current list is located at International Admission Program List
RCTC does not offer an English as a Second Language (ELL/ESL) program. International students must meet minimum English proficiency requirements. Details on minimum requirements are found on the Admissions Requirements page
How much does it cost to attend Rochester Community and Technical College?
International students must be able to finance an entire academic year (9 months) as part of the admissions requirements. The cost of attendance includes tuition and fees, mandatory health insurance, off-campus housing, transportation, personal expenses, including food, and other miscellaneous expenses.
Are there any scholarships or financial aid for international students?
International students are not eligible to apply for and receive state and federal financial aid, such as grants and loans. All international students must have sufficient funds to support themselves and cover their expenses while attending RCTC.
Once international students are enrolled at RCTC, they may be eligible to complete a scholarship application through the RCTC Foundation.
Can international students get a job?
International students cannot work on RCTC’s campus until they have successfully completed one semester at RCTC. There are no guaranteed jobs for international students, but those who do obtain a campus position can work up to 20 hours per week during fall and spring semesters.
International students are not eligible to work off-campus until one full academic year has been successfully completed, and only with permission from an RCTC international designated school official (PDSO or DSO).
Working on or off-campus without authorization will result in losing student visa status.
Can I live on-campus at RCTC?
Rochester Community and Technical College does not offer any campus-sponsored housing. International students need to secure their own housing while making arrangements to travel to the United States. RCTC does have a small list of housing opportunities, but RCTC does not endorse or sponsor any of these listings.
Please visit www.rctc.edu/housing for more information.
I currently have a different visa. Can I still study at Rochester Community and Technical College?
International students who hold a different visa may be eligible to study at RCTC or eligible to apply for a different visa type (change of status) through the US Customs and Immigration Service. However, students seeking a change of status must meet all admission requirements listed at International Admissions to be admitted and receive an I-20 from RCTC.
Following admission, students need to apply for a change of status with USCIS. For more information, visit www.uscis.gov.
I would like to travel while at RCTC. Can I travel?
International students who are enrolled at RCTC can travel within the United States, including Hawaii, Alaska, and any US Territory with no restrictions. However, we highly recommend students have their current passport, I-20, I-94, and any other documents that may be helpful during travel.
International students wishing to travel outside the US or US Territory need to have their I-20 signed each time they wish to leave the US and re-enter. The travel authorization located on the I-20 can only be signed by an RCTC Designated School Official (PDSO or DSO) and must be signed at least 2 weeks in advance of departure.
No appointment is required for this signature, but students must check in at the Welcome and One Stop Center.
Documents required to re-enter the United States
- Valid, signed I-20 with endorsed travel authorization
- Valid passport with a valid US entry visa stamp
- Copy of current RCTC class schedule
- Evidence of financial support
Additional questions regarding international admission can be emailed to [email protected].