Student Support
Make your dream of studying in the U.S. a reality!
Our International and Immigrant Student Services (IISS) department is here to help F-1 students every step of the way from the application process, to F-1 visa and immigration support, adjusting to life in the U.S., and planning for transfer. Whatever you need, our IISS counselors are dedicated to making you feel at home, so you can focus on learning!
How IISS can help
Enrollment Assistance
Get started at CCBC as an F-1 international student.
Orientation
Once you arrive to the U.S., we'll walk you through next steps at the mandatory F-1 International Student Orientation. You'll get to meet other international students and learn about F-1 information and resources for your first semester at CCBC.
Course Placement
Most F-1 international students entering CCBC for the first time will need to take the ESOL Placement Test as well as a math placement exam.
Registration
Whether it's your first semester or later on, IISS is always here to help you navigate the class registration process.
Moving to Baltimore
Our ideal setting in Baltimore County places you right in the heart of the country’s bustling Northeast corridor, close to Washington D.C., Philadelphia and New York City. To make the most of your experience, we recommend planning in advance for the following.
In Baltimore, public transportation isn’t nearly as developed as it is in most cities in Europe or Asia. If you plan to rely on public transportation, consider your transportation options when you choose your housing. Some students find it easiest to live within walking distance of the college. CCBC also offers a free shuttle between campus locations.
In Baltimore, the weather is generally moderate. The average annual temperature is 55.1 degrees Fahrenheit. High temperatures occur in July and average in the mid to upper 80s. Low temperatures occur in January when it averages in the low to mid 20s.
CCBC does not offer on- or off-campus housing, so international students will need to arrange their own accommodations. Fortunately, there are apartments or flats near each of our campuses. We recommend finding housing that's close to public transportation.
We recommend you open a bank account in Baltimore as soon as possible. A checking account is the type of bank account that is most useful. It allows you to deposit your money and then write checks against the balance. You can also use an ATM (automated teller machine) or online services like PayPal and Venmo.
If you want to earn supplemental income during your time in the U.S., keep in mind there are F-1 visa regulations. Students can apply for on-campus positions after they've completed two semesters, but off-campus positions are more restricted due to federal law. If you do get a job, plan to obtain a social security number.
We require international students to purchase their own health insurance and provide proof at the start of each fall and spring semester. We also recommend that you complete any health examinations in your home country ahead of time and bring any prescriptions or medical supplies with you. This will help you save money on medical costs.
Being an international student at CCBC is a great thing. Unlike at other institutions, we are considered and given opportunities to advance our studies.
Visa and Immigration Support
The F-1 visa and immigration process can seem overwhelming, but IISS is here to help you navigate through it! Even if we don't offer a particular service, we will connect you with people who can. We can provide information on:
- How to inform USCIS of your address and program of study changes.
- How to apply to USCIS to change your status to F-1.
- How to obtain a social security number for on-campus, CPT and OPT employment.
Get Connected
CCBC is more than just a place to learn. It's a place to connect, grow and thrive. As an international student, you'll have endless opportunities to meet peers and get involved!
Contact International and Immigrant Student Services (IISS)
CCBC Catonsville
- Phone: 443.840.5005
- Email: [email protected]
- Location:
Student Services Center | room 015
800 South Rolling Road
Baltimore, MD 21228
Fax: 443.840.4992
CCBC Essex
- Phone: 443.840.1005
- Email: [email protected]
- Location:
Student Services Center | room 120A
7201 Rossville Boulevard
Baltimore, MD 21237
Fax: 443.840.2200
Info for current students
If you're an F-1 student and already taking CCBC classes, here are some resources just for you.
Current F-1 students
