Navigating International Student Admissions at Bellevue College

Bellevue College (BC), a public community college situated in Bellevue, Washington, is celebrated for its diverse student community and dedication to offering accessible, high-quality education. The college provides a comprehensive array of academic pathways, including associate degrees, professional certifications, and seamless transfer opportunities to four-year universities. Demonstrating a strong commitment to student success, Bellevue College cultivates a nurturing learning atmosphere, complemented by a wealth of resources designed to empower students in achieving their educational aspirations.

General Admission Requirements for All Students

Bellevue College generally requires a minimum high school GPA of 2.0 (on a 4.0 scale) or its equivalent for admission. Official transcripts from all previously attended secondary schools are mandatory.

Specific Requirements for International Students

For international students aspiring to enroll at Bellevue College, there are specific admission requirements that need to be fulfilled. These requirements are designed to ensure that international students are well-prepared for academic success and have the necessary resources to support their studies.

Countries with Specific Requirements

Bellevue College recognizes educational qualifications from a wide range of countries. Some of these countries include:

Anguilla
Antigua and Barbuda
Australia
Bahamas
Barbados
Belize
Bermuda
Botswana
British Virgin Islands
Cameroon
Canada (except Quebec)
Cayman Islands
Dominica
England
Fiji
The Gambia
Ghana
Gibraltar
Grenada
Guyana
Ireland, Northern
Ireland, Republic of
Jamaica
Kenya
Lesotho
Liberia
Malawi
Malta
Mauritius
Montserrat
Namibia
New Zealand
Nigeria
Papua New Guinea
Scotland
Seychelles
Sierra Leone
Singapore
Solomon Islands
South Africa
St. Kitts and Nevis
St. Lucia
St. Vincent and the Grenadines
Swaziland
Tanzania
Tonga
Trinidad and Tobago
Turks and Caicos Islands
Uganda
United Kingdom
Vanuatu
Wales
Zambia

Visa Requirements

International students often require a visa to study in the United States. Bellevue College is authorized to enroll students with F-1 and J-1 visas. These visas have specific requirements that students must meet to maintain their legal status while studying in the U.S.

F-1 Visa

International students requesting F-1 status must submit financial documentation to prove that enough funds are readily available for the first year of estimated expenses and should be prepared to prove that additional funds will be available for the duration of studies.

J-1 Visa

Students requesting J-1 status must submit financial documentation to prove that funding is available for the entire J-1 program.

Financial Documentation

A crucial part of the admission process for international students is demonstrating sufficient financial resources. This ensures that students can cover their tuition, living expenses, and other related costs during their stay in the United States.

Required Documents

To demonstrate financial ability, international students must provide the following documents:

A bank letter (on letterhead) or bank statement.
If the account is not in the student's name, an Affidavit of Support will be required.
A sponsorship letter indicating the details of their sponsorship, if applicable.

These documents must show that enough funds are readily available for the first year of estimated expenses.

Read also: Bellevue College Mascot

Dependents

If you are bringing dependents (child or spouse) with you to the US and are requesting F-2/J-2 documents for them, you will need to show an additional $7,804 USD for each dependent. You may also need to provide a copy of your passport if you are bringing your child or spouse to the United States.

Financial Estimates

It's important for prospective students to have a clear understanding of the estimated costs associated with studying at Bellevue College. These costs include tuition, fees, living expenses, and other miscellaneous costs.

Please note: Additional fees may apply to individual courses within your major requirements such as lab fees or proctoring costs. All costs are estimates, rounded to the nearest dollar and are subject to change. Expect approximately a 5% increase each year.

Evaluation of Credentials

Bellevue College may require international students to have their educational credentials evaluated by an approved agency. Educational Credential Evaluators (ECE) and World Education Services (WES) are commonly used for this purpose. These evaluations help the college understand the equivalency of international academic qualifications.

Application Review and Deferral

After all documents are received, the application will be evaluated. If there are any concerns regarding the submitted documents or qualifications, issuance will be encouraged to defer their admission. However, each situation will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

Programs Available for International Students

Bellevue College offers a variety of programs suitable for international students, whether they are seeking an associate degree, a bachelor's degree, or a short-term program to improve their English language skills.

Associate and Bachelor's Degrees

International students can begin their education at Bellevue College with associate programs. Our bachelor’s degrees are career-oriented programs designed to prepare students to successfully compete for specialized jobs that require advanced knowledge and skills for a respective industry. BC is in the top 15% nationwide for best associate degree colleges. We transfer more students to four-year institutions than any other college in Washington state. With on-campus housing, coaching with the financial aid process, affinity groups, and a vibrant urban campus, you can choose from one of 15 bachelor's degree programs and know you are supported.

Some academic programs may also ask you to complete a program-specific application or provide additional info.

Bridge Pathway Program

Our Bridge Pathway program is a quarter-long English preparation program. Experiencing a new culture is one of the best ways to prepare for a connected world.

Global Vision Program

A college-level program for academically motivated F-1 students ages 16-17 who have not yet completed high school. Students follow an associate degree curriculum, and upon graduation are awarded both a Washington State high school diploma and an associate degree.

Concurrent Enrollment

F-1 students can engage in concurrent enrollment, allowing them to take courses at Bellevue College while maintaining their status at their primary institution.

Short-Term Customizable Program

Our short-term, customizable program offers hands-on English learning, cultural activities, and homestay experiences for participants aged 15 and up.

Student Life and Support Services

Bellevue College is committed to providing a supportive and inclusive environment for all students, including international students. The college offers a range of services and resources to help students succeed academically, socially, and personally.

Student Central Dashboard

Want to know the status of your application, inquiry, or request? Visit the Student Central Dashboard. It displays timelines for reviewing such items, so you’ll know where yours stands.

Affinity Groups

Join an exciting and diverse community of over 1,300 international students (including F and J visas) from 57 countries at Bellevue College. With on campus housing, international support, affinity groups, and a vibrant urban campus. you can further your education by choosing from the eight BC Pathways.

Join an exciting and diverse community of AAPI students at BC as you navigate your educational path. With on-campus housing, coaching with the financial aid process, affinity groups, and a vibrant urban campus, you can choose from one of 15 bachelor's degree programs and know you are supported.

Join an exciting and diverse community of Black and African American students at BC as you navigate your educational path. With on campus housing, coaching with the financial aid process, affinity groups, and a vibrant urban campus, you can choose from one of 15 bachelor's degree programs and know you are supported.

Join an exciting and diverse community of Latinx students at BC as you navigate your educational path. With dedicated bilingual counselors and academic advisors, on-campus housing, affinity groups and a vibrant urban campus, you can choose from one of 15 bachelor's degree programs and know you are supported.

Support for Specific Groups

At BC, we welcome neurodivergent students as part of the diversity of our campus community. Join us at BC as you navigate your educational path. Bellevue College is committed to supporting our veterans and their family members.

As, a first-generation college student, it might seem daunting, but we are here to help. Join a supportive and engaging first-generation student community at Bellevue College. Umoja is a Kiswahili word meaning: Unity.

Student Organizations

Student organizations play a vital role in the student culture of Bellevue College and offer students the opportunity for leadership development and growth.

Campus Environment

When you’re at Bellevue College, you know that you belong. The campus is a community that values you for being the unique individual that you are. It’s a place where everyone has a sense of purpose. If you’re an undocumented immigrant, rest assured that we safeguard your privacy.

Virtual and In-Person Tours

Tour the Bellevue College campus-without leaving home. Our virtual tour guides you across courtyards and inside buildings. Don’t hesitate to take the next step: Visit campus in person.

Additional Information

Location

Looking for information on international admissions requirements, tuition payments, housing, or life in Bellevue, Nebraska? Everything you need to know is here in one place. learn on our campus in Bellevue, Nebraska. Note: Not all on-campus degrees are fully on campus and may not be available for all international students. courses to enjoy a rich education journey with no geographic boundaries.

Getting Started

Our Getting Started page has everything you need to get your application submitted.

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