College of the Canyons
College of the Canyons, located in Santa Clarita, California, is a large community college that helps over 30,000 students annually. Since 1969, it’s been a place where anyone can get a good education, whether they want to transfer to a university or learn job skills.
The college has two campuses and offers many different programs. It’s a diverse and welcoming place, and it’s known for helping students succeed. Approximately 40% of their students transfer to four-year universities, including those within the prestigious University of California and California State University systems.
Why Study at College of the Canyons in USA?
- Ranked among the top community colleges in California and nationwide.
- Direct Associate Degree for Transfer (ADT) pathways to California State University (CSU) and University of California (UC) systems.
- Home to thousands of students, including international scholars from over 60 countries.
- Comprehensive technical and career education tailored to current industry demands.
- Strong partnerships with leading regional companies and top four-year universities.
- Affordable tuition fees providing high-value higher education.
- Two modern campuses located in Santa Clarita, just north of Los Angeles.
- Flexible online, hybrid, and evening course formats.
- Vibrant student life with dozens of clubs, cultural activities, and championship athletic programs.
Highlights
Understanding the key institutional metrics gives prospective students a clear picture of what to expect from the academic environment at College of the Canyons.
- Acceptance Rate: 100% (Open Admissions)
- Total Students: 30,000+ (Undergraduate across credit and non-credit programs)
- International Students: 3%+
- University Type: Public Community College (Santa Clarita Community College District)
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 23:1
College of the Canyons Ranking
The College of the Canyons rankings consistently reflect its strengths in higher education access, transfer pathway completion, innovation, and career training.
| Ranking Agency | Rank |
|---|---|
|
Niche 2026 Best Community Colleges in America |
#66 |
|
College Factual 2026 California Rankings |
#116 |
College of the Canyons Intakes
Understanding the available College of the Canyons intakes is an important step when planning your application.
Fall Intake: The Fall intake is the primary admission cycle and offers the widest selection of associate degree courses and certificate options. Classes generally begin in late August. It is the preferred intake for international students due to full orientation programming, maximum class availability, and seamless transfer planning.
Spring Intake: The Spring intake usually begins in February and is available across most academic departments. It is ideal for students who miss the Fall deadline or need extra time for transcript evaluations, visa processing, or financial preparation.
Summer Intake: Selected short-term programs and general education courses are open during the Summer intake, beginning in June. Intake options are more streamlined compared to the main academic year.
Note: College of the Canyons application deadlines differ by applicant status and program. COC operates an open admissions policy for general enrollment, but international applicants (F-1 visa) must adhere to specific priority processing dates.
College of the Canyons Courses
Students searching for popular programs at College of the Canyons will find globally recognized programs in business administration, computer science, engineering, nursing, digital media, administration of justice, and liberal arts.
| Program | Duration | Total Tuition Fees |
|---|---|---|
|
AS Business Administration |
2 Years |
$10,872 |
|
AS Computer Science |
2 Year |
$10,872 |
|
AS Engineering |
2 Years |
$11,778 |
|
AA Animation & Digital Media |
2 Year |
$10,872 |
Note: Tuition fees at College of the Canyons vary depending on total units taken, course classification, and enrollment status. Non-California residents and international students pay per-unit tuition plus mandatory capital outlay and campus fees. Always check the official website for current fee schedules before enrolling
Cost of Studying at College of the Canyons
Understanding the cost of studying is an essential part of planning your education abroad.
Students planning to study in USA should also consider the overall cost of education in USA when creating their financial plan, as living costs vary based on housing preferences, transport, and lifestyle in the Greater Los Angeles area.
| Expense Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
|
Non-Resident / International Tuition Fees |
$10,942 / year |
|
Books & Supplies |
$1,305 / year |
|
Accommodation & Food |
$12,537 – $24,561 / year |
|
Transportation |
$1,206 – $1,656 / year |
|
Travel |
$80 – $120/month |
|
General Expenses |
$4,563 – $5,706 / year |
Estimated Annual Cost: International students should budget approximately USD 30,500 to 44,100 per year, depending on whether they reside off-campus independently or choose shared living arrangements.
College of the Canyons Scholarships
Students looking for a scholarship to study in USA should explore all institutional opportunities, as the COC Foundation awards hundreds of scholarships annually based on academic merit, financial need, and community leadership.
| Scholarship | Value | Details |
|---|---|---|
|
COC Foundation Annual Scholarships |
$500 to $3,000+ per year |
Awarded to continuing and transfer students based on GPA and leadership. |
|
International Student Achievement Award |
Varies |
Awarded to outstanding international students demonstrating academic excellence. |
College of the Canyons Admissions
The College of the Canyons admissions process evaluates applicants based on high school completion or equivalent qualifications and English language proficiency.
Students applying for undergraduate degrees or certificate programs should ensure they satisfy all general and visa-specific entry requirements. International applicants whose native language is not English must demonstrate English proficiency through standard language tests or academic prerequisites.
To enroll in associate degree programs, applicants must hold a high school diploma, GED, or equivalent qualification.
English Language Proficiency Test Accepted:
- TOEFL iBT – 45+
- IELTS – 5.0+
- Duolingo – 75+
- Pearson (PTE) – 39+
Additional Requirements:
You are also required to submit academic transcripts, statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, resume/CV, and English language proficiency scores.
To study Bachelor’s in USA, students must have a high school diploma or equivalent with a minimum GPA.
English Language Proficiency Test Accepted:
- TOEFL iBT – 45+
- IELTS – 5.0+
- Duolingo – 75+
- Pearson (PTE) – 39+
Additional Requirements:
You are also required to submit academic transcripts, resume/CV, and English language proficiency scores.
Accommodation at College of the Canyons
Finding appropriate living space is an integral part of preparing for your studies at College of the Canyons. As a two-year institution, COC does not maintain on-campus dormitories, but offers comprehensive assistance to help students secure off-campus housing near the Valencia and Canyon Country locations.
Off-Campus Options: Students rent apartments, shared townhomes, or room stays throughout Santa Clarita and nearby North Los Angeles communities. Popular neighborhoods include Valencia, Newhall, Saugus, and Stevenson Ranch, offering convenient public transit access directly to campus.
Housing Support Services: The International Student Program (ISP) office provides dedicated resources, housing directories, roommate matching services, and guidance on local leasing practices to ensure students transition smoothly into safe and convenient housing.
College of the Canyons Placements
College of the Canyons maintains a strong track record for preparing students either to transition directly into competitive technical careers or transfer to top four-year universities. Graduates frequently transfer to prestigious institutions such as UCLA, UC Berkeley, UC Santa Barbara, USC, and California State University, Northridge (CSUN).
The Career Center at College of the Canyons offers individualized counseling, resume building, interview practice, job fairs, and internship matching through platforms like Handshake.
Top employers hiring COC graduates and transfer alumni include:
- Kaiser Permanente
- Princess Cruises
- Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital
- Aerospace Dynamics International
- Six Flags Magic Mountain
- City of Santa Clarita
- Walt Disney Company
- Northrop Grumman
- Amazon
- Bank of America
Student Essential Services
Student support services at College of the Canyons ensure that students receive the academic, personal, and professional assistance required to thrive throughout their college career.
- International Student Program (ISP): Offers specialized advising, visa guidance, orientation sessions, and cultural activities for international scholars.
- Career Center: Provides professional career counseling, job placement assistance, resume workshops, and networking events.
- COC Library & Learning Center (TLC): Grants access to extensive digital catalogs, study rooms, research assistance, and free tutoring across multiple academic disciplines.
- Student Health & Wellness Center: On-campus facility offering low-cost medical care, preventative wellness services, and mental health counseling.
- Basic Needs Center (BaNC): Connects students with essential resources including food assistance, clothing support, and emergency housing referrals.
- Athletics & Fitness Facilities: Features competitive intercollegiate athletic teams, modern fitness areas, aquatics center, and recreational sports fields.
- Campus Clubs & Organizations: Supports diverse student clubs spanning academic, cultural, artistic, and social interests.
- Computer Labs & Technology Services: Delivers campus-wide Wi-Fi, computer labs, software licenses, and technical assistance for all registered students.
Location of College of the Canyons
Frequently Asked Questions
Does College of the Canyons offer on-campus housing for international students?
College of the Canyons does not offer on-campus housing. International students typically find accommodations in apartments or shared housing near the campus. The college provides resources to help students find suitable housing.
Does College of the Canyons offer scholarships or financial aid for international students?
Unfortunately, College of the Canyons does not offer institutional scholarships or financial aid specifically for international students. Students are expected to demonstrate sufficient financial resources to cover their expenses.
What is the student population like at College of the Canyons?
College of the Canyons has a diverse student population, with students from various ethnic and cultural backgrounds. The college actively promotes inclusivity and offers a welcoming environment for international students. The total student population is over 30,000 students.
What transportation options are available for international students at the College of the Canyons?
Students can use public transportation, including buses, or drive if they have a valid driver’s license. Many students also carpool or use ride-sharing services. The College of the Canyons is easily accessible by public transport.
Are there any cultural or social clubs for international students at the College of the Canyons?
College of the Canyons has numerous student clubs and organizations, including cultural clubs and international student associations. Students can join these clubs to connect with others and participate in social activities.
What documents are required for an international student application to the College of the Canyons?
Required documents typically include: a completed application form, official academic transcripts translated into English, proof of English language proficiency, a copy of your passport, and a financial statement demonstrating sufficient funds. The college may request additional documents.
College of the Canyons
College of the Canyons, located in Santa Clarita, California, is a large community college that helps over 30,000 students annually. Since 1969, it’s been a place where anyone can get a good education, whether they want to transfer to a university or learn job skills.
The college has two campuses and offers many different programs. It’s a diverse and welcoming place, and it’s known for helping students succeed. Approximately 40% of their students transfer to four-year universities, including those within the prestigious University of California and California State University systems.
Why Study at College of the Canyons in USA?
- Ranked among the top community colleges in California and nationwide.
- Direct Associate Degree for Transfer (ADT) pathways to California State University (CSU) and University of California (UC) systems.
- Home to thousands of students, including international scholars from over 60 countries.
- Comprehensive technical and career education tailored to current industry demands.
- Strong partnerships with leading regional companies and top four-year universities.
- Affordable tuition fees providing high-value higher education.
- Two modern campuses located in Santa Clarita, just north of Los Angeles.
- Flexible online, hybrid, and evening course formats.
- Vibrant student life with dozens of clubs, cultural activities, and championship athletic programs.
Highlights
Understanding the key institutional metrics gives prospective students a clear picture of what to expect from the academic environment at College of the Canyons.
- Acceptance Rate: 100% (Open Admissions)
- Total Students: 30,000+ (Undergraduate across credit and non-credit programs)
- International Students: 3%+
- University Type: Public Community College (Santa Clarita Community College District)
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 23:1
College of the Canyons Ranking
The College of the Canyons rankings consistently reflect its strengths in higher education access, transfer pathway completion, innovation, and career training.
| Ranking Agency | Rank |
|---|---|
|
Niche 2026 Best Community Colleges in America |
#66 |
|
College Factual 2026 California Rankings |
#116 |
College of the Canyons Intakes
Understanding the available College of the Canyons intakes is an important step when planning your application.
Fall Intake: The Fall intake is the primary admission cycle and offers the widest selection of associate degree courses and certificate options. Classes generally begin in late August. It is the preferred intake for international students due to full orientation programming, maximum class availability, and seamless transfer planning.
Spring Intake: The Spring intake usually begins in February and is available across most academic departments. It is ideal for students who miss the Fall deadline or need extra time for transcript evaluations, visa processing, or financial preparation.
Summer Intake: Selected short-term programs and general education courses are open during the Summer intake, beginning in June. Intake options are more streamlined compared to the main academic year.
Note: College of the Canyons application deadlines differ by applicant status and program. COC operates an open admissions policy for general enrollment, but international applicants (F-1 visa) must adhere to specific priority processing dates.
College of the Canyons Courses
Students searching for popular programs at College of the Canyons will find globally recognized programs in business administration, computer science, engineering, nursing, digital media, administration of justice, and liberal arts.
| Program | Duration | Total Tuition Fees |
|---|---|---|
|
AS Business Administration |
2 Years |
$10,872 |
|
AS Computer Science |
2 Year |
$10,872 |
|
AS Engineering |
2 Years |
$11,778 |
|
AA Animation & Digital Media |
2 Year |
$10,872 |
Note: Tuition fees at College of the Canyons vary depending on total units taken, course classification, and enrollment status. Non-California residents and international students pay per-unit tuition plus mandatory capital outlay and campus fees. Always check the official website for current fee schedules before enrolling
Cost of Studying at College of the Canyons
Understanding the cost of studying is an essential part of planning your education abroad.
Students planning to study in USA should also consider the overall cost of education in USA when creating their financial plan, as living costs vary based on housing preferences, transport, and lifestyle in the Greater Los Angeles area.
| Expense Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
|
Non-Resident / International Tuition Fees |
$10,942 / year |
|
Books & Supplies |
$1,305 / year |
|
Accommodation & Food |
$12,537 – $24,561 / year |
|
Transportation |
$1,206 – $1,656 / year |
|
Travel |
$80 – $120/month |
|
General Expenses |
$4,563 – $5,706 / year |
Estimated Annual Cost: International students should budget approximately USD 30,500 to 44,100 per year, depending on whether they reside off-campus independently or choose shared living arrangements.
College of the Canyons Scholarships
Students looking for a scholarship to study in USA should explore all institutional opportunities, as the COC Foundation awards hundreds of scholarships annually based on academic merit, financial need, and community leadership.
| Scholarship | Value | Details |
|---|---|---|
|
COC Foundation Annual Scholarships |
$500 to $3,000+ per year |
Awarded to continuing and transfer students based on GPA and leadership. |
|
International Student Achievement Award |
Varies |
Awarded to outstanding international students demonstrating academic excellence. |
College of the Canyons Admissions
The College of the Canyons admissions process evaluates applicants based on high school completion or equivalent qualifications and English language proficiency.
Students applying for undergraduate degrees or certificate programs should ensure they satisfy all general and visa-specific entry requirements. International applicants whose native language is not English must demonstrate English proficiency through standard language tests or academic prerequisites.
To enroll in associate degree programs, applicants must hold a high school diploma, GED, or equivalent qualification.
English Language Proficiency Test Accepted:
- TOEFL iBT – 45+
- IELTS – 5.0+
- Duolingo – 75+
- Pearson (PTE) – 39+
Additional Requirements:
You are also required to submit academic transcripts, statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, resume/CV, and English language proficiency scores.
To study Bachelor’s in USA, students must have a high school diploma or equivalent with a minimum GPA.
English Language Proficiency Test Accepted:
- TOEFL iBT – 45+
- IELTS – 5.0+
- Duolingo – 75+
- Pearson (PTE) – 39+
Additional Requirements:
You are also required to submit academic transcripts, resume/CV, and English language proficiency scores.
Accommodation at College of the Canyons
Finding appropriate living space is an integral part of preparing for your studies at College of the Canyons. As a two-year institution, COC does not maintain on-campus dormitories, but offers comprehensive assistance to help students secure off-campus housing near the Valencia and Canyon Country locations.
Off-Campus Options: Students rent apartments, shared townhomes, or room stays throughout Santa Clarita and nearby North Los Angeles communities. Popular neighborhoods include Valencia, Newhall, Saugus, and Stevenson Ranch, offering convenient public transit access directly to campus.
Housing Support Services: The International Student Program (ISP) office provides dedicated resources, housing directories, roommate matching services, and guidance on local leasing practices to ensure students transition smoothly into safe and convenient housing.
College of the Canyons Placements
College of the Canyons maintains a strong track record for preparing students either to transition directly into competitive technical careers or transfer to top four-year universities. Graduates frequently transfer to prestigious institutions such as UCLA, UC Berkeley, UC Santa Barbara, USC, and California State University, Northridge (CSUN).
The Career Center at College of the Canyons offers individualized counseling, resume building, interview practice, job fairs, and internship matching through platforms like Handshake.
Top employers hiring COC graduates and transfer alumni include:
- Kaiser Permanente
- Princess Cruises
- Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital
- Aerospace Dynamics International
- Six Flags Magic Mountain
- City of Santa Clarita
- Walt Disney Company
- Northrop Grumman
- Amazon
- Bank of America
Student Essential Services
Location of College of the Canyons
Frequently Asked Questions
Does College of the Canyons offer on-campus housing for international students?
College of the Canyons does not offer on-campus housing. International students typically find accommodations in apartments or shared housing near the campus. The college provides resources to help students find suitable housing.
Does College of the Canyons offer scholarships or financial aid for international students?
Unfortunately, College of the Canyons does not offer institutional scholarships or financial aid specifically for international students. Students are expected to demonstrate sufficient financial resources to cover their expenses.
What is the student population like at College of the Canyons?
College of the Canyons has a diverse student population, with students from various ethnic and cultural backgrounds. The college actively promotes inclusivity and offers a welcoming environment for international students. The total student population is over 30,000 students.
What transportation options are available for international students at the College of the Canyons?
Students can use public transportation, including buses, or drive if they have a valid driver’s license. Many students also carpool or use ride-sharing services. The College of the Canyons is easily accessible by public transport.
Are there any cultural or social clubs for international students at the College of the Canyons?
College of the Canyons has numerous student clubs and organizations, including cultural clubs and international student associations. Students can join these clubs to connect with others and participate in social activities.
What documents are required for an international student application to the College of the Canyons?
Required documents typically include: a completed application form, official academic transcripts translated into English, proof of English language proficiency, a copy of your passport, and a financial statement demonstrating sufficient funds. The college may request additional documents.
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