BBCC encourages and welcomes applications for admission from students of other countries who wish to pursue a quality educational experience in the United States. BBCC provides a variety of educational opportunities in the liberal arts and technical program areas and is committed to increasing understanding and exchange of social awareness, cultural enrichment, and sharing of ideas.
Prospective international students will find all application requirements on the BBCC website at https://www.bigbend.edu/i-am/international-general-information/.
International Student Admission Requirements, below, must be completed at least 60 days prior to the first day of class. See webpage link, above, for contact information.
- BBCC international student application for admission form (provided to prospective student upon request; see website above for contact information).
- Copy of high school transcripts submitted with official English translation.
- Proof of adequate financial support to cover all expenses for one academic year (September through June) documented on the Declaration and Certification of Finances form and accompanied by official bank documents or original signed letters that verify funds are available.
- Proof of English proficiency must be documented. One of the following is acceptable:
- TOEFL internet based test minimum score of 12 on each section.
- IELTS minimum score of 4 on each band
- Successful completion of a college level English composition class (approved upon review of your official college transcript). English as a Second Language (ESL) classes may not be substituted.
In order to accept college-level credit from non-United States institutions, Big Bend Community College (BBCC) requires that students submit transcripts to a NACES certified international transcript evaluation service for a course by course evaluation. There are several such companies available, with varied requirements and fees. These companies have the contacts and qualifications to accurately evaluate different educational system credits and provide BBCC with credit equivalencies.
Upon successful completion of the admission requirements above, students who are approved for admission will be issued an I-20. Students must then apply for and be granted an F-1 visa.
Once the I-20 is issued, the prospective student must then apply for their student visa at the United States Embassy or Consulate closest to their home. Their passport, bank statement or sponsorship papers and proof of payment of the SEVIS fee (I-901) will be required. Visit the following website for more information regarding the SEVIS fee: www.ice.gov/sevis.
International students transferring from U.S. institutions must be in compliance with F-1 visa requirements as defined by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. BBCC requires completion of an Intent to Transfer form which will be sent to students upon request.
All international students are required to have math and English placement prior to enrollment. This requirement may be fulfilled using high school or college transcripts or students may be required to take placement tests. International students must enroll in an English class each term until they have reached the English level required for their major program. International students must live in a college residence hall during the first quarter of attendance.
International students are encouraged to have medical/health insurance or purchase one of the insurance plans available to them in the United States. Students who drive cars should have minimum liability auto insurance as required by state law to cover injuries to persons or damage to property.
Students attending BBCC on an F-1 visa must:
- Keep passport, I-20 and I-94 valid.
- Complete at least 12 college credits each quarter with no more than one online course.
- Maintain satisfactory standards of progress.
- Obtain an official signature on the I-20 ID each time they leave the country.