Why Choose MiraCosta College
- MiraCosta has an intensive English Language program for international students who need more English preparation before they begin their degree programs. This program is also for students who simply wish to improve their English for other purposes.
- Our class sizes are small (average 12-16).
- Our program is offered five times throughout the year. Each session is eight weeks long and you may combine sessions for a longer stay. Each session provides 20 hours per week of instruction. Classes are held Monday-Thursday 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. and Friday from 9:000 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
- Our classes are held on the MiraCosta College campus. Students have access to college facilities, including computer labs, library, health center, and participation in organizations and activities.
- Our classes include TOEFL preparation (new internet-based), integrated academic preparation in reading, writing, listening, speaking, and grammar. We also offer study of United States culture, computer literacy and development of study skills.
- We have energetic, highly trained instructors with Masters Degrees. Many of them have taught over-seas.
- We have a full-service international student office with advisors. These advisors will help you with all immigration documents. They also help students plan their classes and education to ensure successful transfer into MiraCosta credit classes or other California colleges and universities.
- Students are encouraged to attend college sponsored events such as our International Conversation Cafe, culture festivals, International Club and much more!
- Certificates are awarded at the end of each session. A celebration luncheon is held
and sponsored by MiraCosta.
The College is only a few minutes from the beach and 35 miles north of the city of San Diego. The area offers easy access to many attractions and activities
Transfer Agreements
Transfer Admission Guarantee Programs
Guaranteed admission programs are available to UC Davis, UC Irvine, UC Merced, UC
Riverside, UC San Diego, UC Santa Barbara, and UC Santa Cruz. In addition, a preferred
admission program is in place for UCLA*. (* The UCLA program is for MiraCosta Honors
students only).
Honors Program
Students who participate in the Honors Program will be eligible for a transfer admission
guarantee or priority consideration for admission to many colleges and universities
who are participating in the Honors Transfer Council of California. Consult the Honors
Program counselor in the Transfer Center for details.
The MiraCosta College Transfer Center
Is dedicated to making the transfer process as easy and efficient as possible. Visit
us for complete information about our services.
Counseling Appointments: Two full-time counselors are available to assist you with all your transfer needs. They will prepare an educational plan to guide you in course selection. Drop-in counseling is available several times throughout each week for quick questions regarding transfer.
Cross-Enrollment Programs
Allows students to enroll for one course each semester at a CSU or each quarter at
a UC campus without paying tuition or fees (a nominal charge is paid for processing).
A great opportunity for the student who has completed most of the lower-division requirements
for transfer or who needs a lower-division course not offered at MiraCosta. Information
is available in the Transfer Center. Applications are obtained from Admissions & Records.
Frequently Asked Questions
This program is for students who:
- Are in the U.S. on an F-1, B1/B2, M visa, K visa, L visa or residents (see policy below) and are at least 18 years old (See Minor Policy on "Steps to Apply" page)
- Have a minimum of one year English language training at the high school or college level
- Want TOEFL test preparation or have not yet passed the TOEFL. Students who have less than a 46 IBT or 450 paper-based TOEFL score.
- International students
- International visitors here for cultural or enrichment purposes (See B-1/B-2 Visitors Policies below)
- Adults and professionals
- Students who want to improve their English for travel, work, or international communication
- Students who want to attend college or university in the USA
- Are admitted or "conditionally" admitted to MiraCosta College
- Are on study abroad programs at MiraCosta College
- Highest UC transfer rate in San Diego
- Official TOEFL test is NOT required to enter the credit program (We offer the Institutional TOEFL for our ELI students. Students must get above 450 to take MiraCosta College Placement Test)
- Small class sizes
- Reasonable fees with individualized attention
- Full access to college campus facilities and activities
- College teachers who are professionally trained to teach ESL
- Safe environment
- Beautiful campus and classrooms
- Best weather in the world!
Programs of interest to our International Students:
- Biology
- Business Management
- Computer Science
- Engineering
- Graphic Design
- Hospitality/Tourism
- Marketing/Advertising
- Music
- Nursing
- Web Programming and Design
- And many more... (view all degrees)
MiraCosta's International Office can issue an I-20 Form about 1 week after we receive your complete application. A complete application includes:
- application form
- application fee
- financial documentation (if you need an F-1 visa)
Students have access to college computer labs, the library, the cafeteria, and the health center. Our International students can also participate in college organizations and activities.
Pictures of ELI Students in San Diego
