After Your Admission (Outside the U.S.)

Congratulations on your admission to Cerritos College! 

Please visit our web pages where you will find useful information to assist you with your arrival at Cerritos College. We recommend that you read all of the page as they contain important information necessary for your entry to the U.S., arrival at Cerritos College, as well as the Mandatory New Student Orientation.

We look forward to personally welcoming you to our close-knit Cerritos College community.

U.S. Visa and Entry Preparation

Obtaining a U.S. student visa requires planning and preparation ahead of time. Below you will find important information about visa application, consular appointments, fees, and arrival-entry rules. Failure to follow these instructions or inadequate preparation can result in significant and costly delays in your arrival at Cerritos College.

To obtain a U.S. visa and enter the U.S. you will need to:

  1. Pay the SEVIS fee.
  2. Make a visa-interview appointment with a U.S. consulate.
  3. Apply for your student visa at the U.S. consulate.
  4. Present required documentation for entry into the U.S. (at airport arrival).

Getting a visa appointment and the visa itself can take more time than expected therefore, you should make your visa plans as early as possible. 

Travel Plans

We strongly recommend that you do not purchase any airline tickets until after you have received your I-20 (Certificate of Eligibility) and have made your visa appointment at the U.S. consulate.

Please be aware that new international students may not enter the U.S. earlier than 30 days prior to the expected latest reporting date which is indicated on your I-20 under Program of Study. 

If you have any questions regarding this procedure, please feel free to contact the Office of International Student Services at Cerritos College. 

David Tilahun
International Admission Specialist (DSO), Office of International Student Services
Phone: +1(562) 860-2451 ext. 2232 | Email: dtilahun@cerritos.edu