International

Intensive English courses to build academic and everyday communication skills before or alongside college study.

• Many students begin their journey at Columbia College by building their English skills before moving into degree or career programs. The English courses are designed to build real confidence — in speaking, listening, reading, writing, and grammar — for both everyday life and academic success in the U.S.
• ESL students take regular field trips to historically, politically, and culturally notable places to experience American culture firsthand. These field trips help students practice English in real-life situations and better understand U.S. culture, politics, and history.
• Classes are offered year-round, with each session lasting 10 weeks.
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We offers a clear route to a U.S. bachelor's degree. Students begin as two-year college students and, with dedicated support, transfer smoothly into four-year universities through our 2+2 pathway. Our advisors guide students through every stage — academic planning, credit transfer, and university selection — so the path from Columbia College to degree completion feels manageable and well-supported, not overwhelming. Many students use this 2+2 pathway to successfully transfer to four-year universities in the U.S., making their long-term study plans more affordable and achievable.

We also stand out for its career-focused vocational programs, which combine academic learning with practical, hands-on training. Students develop industry-specific skills and gain valuable experience that prepares them for success both inside and outside the classroom. The practical skills students gain may support future experiential learning opportunities, including CPT and OPT experiences when applicable and in accordance with U.S. immigration regulations.

We offer the following Associate Degree programs so that students can continue their studies after completing the ESL program.

• Dental Laboratory Technology
• Culinary Arts
• Business Administration
• Information Technology (IT)
• Technical and Business English
• Early Childhood Education

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Learn how to apply, submit required documents, and receive your I-20 to begin your studies as an international student. We support Change of Status, and Transfer-in as well.
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The college is designated by the U.S. Department of State as a J-1 Exchange Visitor Program sponsor. This means the college can issue Form DS-2019 (Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor Status), the official document you need to apply for a J-1 visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate.

J-1 exchange visitors at Columbia College may participate in approved programs in fields such as Business Administration, Computer Science, Teaching English for Early Childhood, Technical and Business English, Cosmetology, Culinary Arts, Dental Laboratory Technology, and Massage Therapy, depending on eligibility and the specific J-1 category.

Through partnerships with designated J-1 program sponsors, Columbia College students may be able to participate in Student Internship programs in fields such as Nursing, Cosmetology, Hotel and Restaurant Management, IT, and Dental Lab Technology.
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Short‑term Professional Training Programs, Exchange Visitor Programs for visiting students and interns with cultural experiences and academic courses in the U.S.
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Career‑oriented sustainability programs for who want to address global environmental challenges.
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