3 answers
Laura
Student
Los Altos, California
4
Questions
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Where and How I should start?
I have a high school diploma from Colombia and I would like to know my options for study a degree in USA ( currently J1 visa)
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3 answers
Dr H
Dr. H's Research
1464
Answers
Australia
Updated
Dr’s Answer
Hey Laura, you’ve already taken the first step by asking this question, and that means you’re serious about making this happen. That’s a great mindset to have!
Since you’re already in California on a J-1 visa and have a high school diploma from Colombia, your options depend on your visa status, academic goals, and financial situation. Chinyere already provided great foundational advice, covering key steps like checking your visa restrictions, getting your diploma evaluated, and considering both community colleges and universities. Let’s build on that with more details and practical suggestions to help you move forward confidently.
Visa & Legal Considerations
Chinyere rightly pointed out that the first thing to check is whether your J-1 visa allows for long-term study. J-1 visas are usually for exchange visitors, and unless your program specifically permits degree-seeking studies, you may need to switch to an F-1 student visa.
To do this, you’ll need to:
Apply to a SEVP-approved school (Student and Exchange Visitor Program).
Get accepted and receive a Form I-20 from the institution.
File for a change of status with USCIS or apply for an F-1 visa at a U.S. consulate if you need to travel home first.
Well, Many universities and community colleges have Designated School Officials (DSOs) who guide international students through the visa transition. If you’re considering a school, email their international student office and ask about their experience with J-1 to F-1 transitions—some schools are more helpful than others!
If you must return to Colombia to apply for an F-1 visa, factor that into your timeline so you’re not caught off guard. It’s better to sort this out before applying to schools, as your visa status affects financial aid and scholarship eligibility.
Education Pathways which even Chinyere has provided the two options!
1. Community College (then transfer to a university) – More affordable and flexible, with great transfer pathways.
2. Direct to University – Requires a bigger financial commitment but may provide more scholarship opportunities.
Both are solid options! California has an excellent community college system, and Santa Monica College, De Anza College, and Pasadena City College have strong transfer agreements with top universities like UCLA, UC Berkeley, and UC Irvine. This means you can complete your first two years affordably and seamlessly transfer into a top-ranked university.
If you prefer to start at a four-year university, consider options like San Francisco State, UC San Diego, or Arizona State University, which have strong international student support.
Alright Laura, If you’re unsure about your major, community college is a great way to explore different subjects before committing to a four-year program. But if you already know what you want to study and are financially prepared, a four-year university may provide more stability and networking opportunities.
Chinyere emphasized the importance of getting your high school diploma evaluated, and that’s absolutely correct. Since your diploma is from Colombia, U.S. colleges will want an evaluation to compare it to U.S. standards.
She mentioned using services like WES (World Education Services), ECE (Educational Credential Evaluators), and SpanTran, which are great choices.
So, Before paying for an external evaluation, contact the schools you’re applying to and ask if they require a specific credential evaluation service. Some universities have their own evaluation process, and using an external service may not even be necessary—which could save you time and money!
Admission Tests: Chinyere mentioned TOEFL or IELTS if English isn’t your first language, and she’s absolutely right. Most universities require one of these tests unless you’ve studied in an English-speaking school.
She also noted that some schools may require the SAT or ACT, though many are test-optional.
Now, actually, If you’re applying to a community college, you likely won’t need the SAT/ACT, but if you’re aiming for a top university with competitive admissions, taking the SAT/ACT could make your application stronger, even if it’s not required.
Before signing up for any test, check each school’s admission page to see their specific policies—many have changed their requirements due to COVID-19 and may not require standardized tests at all. 🤔
Chinyere mentioned that J-1 visa holders have limited access to federal aid, but there are still scholarships and funding opportunities available.
She recommended some places so do check them and She also mentioned the California Community Colleges International Student Scholarship Program, which is a great option if you go the community college route.
Laura, If you switch to an F-1 visa, you can also apply for on-campus jobs to help with expenses. Many schools have work-study programs specifically for international students, so check with the financial aid office of your target schools.
Another underrated funding option is looking into departmental scholarships—many universities offer specific scholarships for students in certain majors. These aren’t always advertised widely, so when you choose a school, email the department for your major and ask about funding opportunities.
Chinyere gave a solid step-by-step approach, and one of her best pieces of advice was to apply to multiple schools (3-5) to increase your chances, and that is really great.
Soooo, While working on your visa situation, start gathering important documents like:
Transcripts (official copies)
Recommendation letters (from teachers or employers)
Personal statement/college essay
Even if you’re not ready to apply yet, having these documents prepared will save you a ton of stress later. Believe me! 😅
You should also reach out to current international students at the schools you’re considering—many universities have Facebook groups, Discord servers, or student forums where you can connect with others who have gone through the same process. They can give first-hand insights about admissions, scholarships, and student life.
You’re in an amazing position to make this happen, Laura! Chinyere gave you a great starting point, and with these additional details, you have a clear roadmap to move forward. 🤗 California has some of the best opportunities for international students, and with the right steps, you’ll find the best path for you. Stay proactive, reach out for help when needed, and most importantly—keep going. You got this, all the best! Don the hesitate to reach or if I missed something or just you got questions to ask! Good luck Laura! 🙌
Step 1: Check your visa situation and talk to a DSO or your program sponsor. Step 2: Research schools and choose between community college or direct university enrollment.
Step 3: Get your diploma evaluated (but check with schools first to see if they require it).
Step 4: Prepare for any required exams (TOEFL/IELTS, SAT/ACT if needed).
Step 5: Look into scholarships and funding options.
Step 6: Start gathering documents and apply to at least 3-5 schools.
Since you’re already in California on a J-1 visa and have a high school diploma from Colombia, your options depend on your visa status, academic goals, and financial situation. Chinyere already provided great foundational advice, covering key steps like checking your visa restrictions, getting your diploma evaluated, and considering both community colleges and universities. Let’s build on that with more details and practical suggestions to help you move forward confidently.
Visa & Legal Considerations
Chinyere rightly pointed out that the first thing to check is whether your J-1 visa allows for long-term study. J-1 visas are usually for exchange visitors, and unless your program specifically permits degree-seeking studies, you may need to switch to an F-1 student visa.
To do this, you’ll need to:
Apply to a SEVP-approved school (Student and Exchange Visitor Program).
Get accepted and receive a Form I-20 from the institution.
File for a change of status with USCIS or apply for an F-1 visa at a U.S. consulate if you need to travel home first.
Well, Many universities and community colleges have Designated School Officials (DSOs) who guide international students through the visa transition. If you’re considering a school, email their international student office and ask about their experience with J-1 to F-1 transitions—some schools are more helpful than others!
If you must return to Colombia to apply for an F-1 visa, factor that into your timeline so you’re not caught off guard. It’s better to sort this out before applying to schools, as your visa status affects financial aid and scholarship eligibility.
Education Pathways which even Chinyere has provided the two options!
1. Community College (then transfer to a university) – More affordable and flexible, with great transfer pathways.
2. Direct to University – Requires a bigger financial commitment but may provide more scholarship opportunities.
Both are solid options! California has an excellent community college system, and Santa Monica College, De Anza College, and Pasadena City College have strong transfer agreements with top universities like UCLA, UC Berkeley, and UC Irvine. This means you can complete your first two years affordably and seamlessly transfer into a top-ranked university.
If you prefer to start at a four-year university, consider options like San Francisco State, UC San Diego, or Arizona State University, which have strong international student support.
Alright Laura, If you’re unsure about your major, community college is a great way to explore different subjects before committing to a four-year program. But if you already know what you want to study and are financially prepared, a four-year university may provide more stability and networking opportunities.
Chinyere emphasized the importance of getting your high school diploma evaluated, and that’s absolutely correct. Since your diploma is from Colombia, U.S. colleges will want an evaluation to compare it to U.S. standards.
She mentioned using services like WES (World Education Services), ECE (Educational Credential Evaluators), and SpanTran, which are great choices.
So, Before paying for an external evaluation, contact the schools you’re applying to and ask if they require a specific credential evaluation service. Some universities have their own evaluation process, and using an external service may not even be necessary—which could save you time and money!
Admission Tests: Chinyere mentioned TOEFL or IELTS if English isn’t your first language, and she’s absolutely right. Most universities require one of these tests unless you’ve studied in an English-speaking school.
She also noted that some schools may require the SAT or ACT, though many are test-optional.
Now, actually, If you’re applying to a community college, you likely won’t need the SAT/ACT, but if you’re aiming for a top university with competitive admissions, taking the SAT/ACT could make your application stronger, even if it’s not required.
Before signing up for any test, check each school’s admission page to see their specific policies—many have changed their requirements due to COVID-19 and may not require standardized tests at all. 🤔
Chinyere mentioned that J-1 visa holders have limited access to federal aid, but there are still scholarships and funding opportunities available.
She recommended some places so do check them and She also mentioned the California Community Colleges International Student Scholarship Program, which is a great option if you go the community college route.
Laura, If you switch to an F-1 visa, you can also apply for on-campus jobs to help with expenses. Many schools have work-study programs specifically for international students, so check with the financial aid office of your target schools.
Another underrated funding option is looking into departmental scholarships—many universities offer specific scholarships for students in certain majors. These aren’t always advertised widely, so when you choose a school, email the department for your major and ask about funding opportunities.
Chinyere gave a solid step-by-step approach, and one of her best pieces of advice was to apply to multiple schools (3-5) to increase your chances, and that is really great.
Soooo, While working on your visa situation, start gathering important documents like:
Transcripts (official copies)
Recommendation letters (from teachers or employers)
Personal statement/college essay
Even if you’re not ready to apply yet, having these documents prepared will save you a ton of stress later. Believe me! 😅
You should also reach out to current international students at the schools you’re considering—many universities have Facebook groups, Discord servers, or student forums where you can connect with others who have gone through the same process. They can give first-hand insights about admissions, scholarships, and student life.
You’re in an amazing position to make this happen, Laura! Chinyere gave you a great starting point, and with these additional details, you have a clear roadmap to move forward. 🤗 California has some of the best opportunities for international students, and with the right steps, you’ll find the best path for you. Stay proactive, reach out for help when needed, and most importantly—keep going. You got this, all the best! Don the hesitate to reach or if I missed something or just you got questions to ask! Good luck Laura! 🙌
Dr recommends the following next steps:
Dr H's advice on checking school-specific evaluation requirements before paying for an external service is brilliant—practical, cost-saving, and often overlooked.
Uran James
It is truly great to hear your insight and feedback on this. Thank you Uran James.
Dr H
Another big thank you to Chinyere Okafor for the support! Your appreciation means a lot. You motivate me to keep sharing thank you.
Dr H
Thank you Karin for your support, I appreciate it, every slight support is a slight smile to a soul.
Dr H
Chinyere Okafor
Educationist and Counseling Psychologist
1207
Answers
Port Harcourt, Rivers, Nigeria
Updated
Chinyere’s Answer
Hello Laura!
Your aspiration of studying a degree in the U.S is great!. Since you already have a high school diploma from Colombia and are currently on a J-1 visa, your options will depend on a few factors like your visa restrictions, financial situation, and academic interests. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
1. Check Your J-1 Visa Restrictions: The J-1 visa is usually for exchange visitors, so before applying to a degree program, check if your current visa allows for long-term study. If not, you may need to switch to an F-1 student visa to enroll in a university. Speak with your program sponsor or an immigration advisor to understand your options.
2. Get Your High School Diploma Evaluated: Since your diploma is from Colombia, U.S. colleges will likely require a credential evaluation to determine its U.S. equivalent. Organizations like:
- WES (World Education Services) → www.wes.org
- ECE (Educational Credential Evaluators) → www.ece.org
- SpanTran → www.spantran.com
These bodies can evaluate your diploma and translate your grades into a format U.S. schools understand. Some colleges have their own evaluation services, so check with their admissions offices first.
3. Decide What Type of Degree You Want
In the U.S., you can choose between:
- Community College (2 years – Associate’s Degree) → More affordable, easier admission, and credits can transfer to a university.
- University (4 years – Bachelor’s Degree) → Directly enroll in a full undergraduate program.
If cost or admissions requirements are a concern, starting at a community college and then transferring to a university is a great option!
4. Research Schools & Programs: Look at schools that fit your goals, budget, and location preferences. Some universities have strong support for international students and may even offer scholarships. Popular choices include:
- Community Colleges: Miami Dade College, Santa Monica College, Houston Community College
- Universities with international student support: Arizona State University, University of Florida, University of Illinois Chicago
5. Take the Required Tests
Many schools require:
- TOEFL or IELTS (if English is not your first language)
- SAT or ACT (some universities require this, but many are test-optional)
6. Apply for Financial Aid & Scholarships
As a J-1 visa holder, you may have limited access to federal financial aid, but many universities and private organizations offer scholarships for international students. Websites like:
- EducationUSA
- Fastweb
These websites can help you find funding options.
7. Apply to Schools: Once you have your diploma evaluation, test scores, and visa situation sorted out, you can start applying! Most schools allow you to apply online, and community colleges often have more flexible admissions policies.
Your next step depends on whether you want to start at a community college or go straight to a university. Either way, getting your diploma evaluated and checking visa options should be your priority.
Best wishes!
Your aspiration of studying a degree in the U.S is great!. Since you already have a high school diploma from Colombia and are currently on a J-1 visa, your options will depend on a few factors like your visa restrictions, financial situation, and academic interests. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
1. Check Your J-1 Visa Restrictions: The J-1 visa is usually for exchange visitors, so before applying to a degree program, check if your current visa allows for long-term study. If not, you may need to switch to an F-1 student visa to enroll in a university. Speak with your program sponsor or an immigration advisor to understand your options.
2. Get Your High School Diploma Evaluated: Since your diploma is from Colombia, U.S. colleges will likely require a credential evaluation to determine its U.S. equivalent. Organizations like:
- WES (World Education Services) → www.wes.org
- ECE (Educational Credential Evaluators) → www.ece.org
- SpanTran → www.spantran.com
These bodies can evaluate your diploma and translate your grades into a format U.S. schools understand. Some colleges have their own evaluation services, so check with their admissions offices first.
3. Decide What Type of Degree You Want
In the U.S., you can choose between:
- Community College (2 years – Associate’s Degree) → More affordable, easier admission, and credits can transfer to a university.
- University (4 years – Bachelor’s Degree) → Directly enroll in a full undergraduate program.
If cost or admissions requirements are a concern, starting at a community college and then transferring to a university is a great option!
4. Research Schools & Programs: Look at schools that fit your goals, budget, and location preferences. Some universities have strong support for international students and may even offer scholarships. Popular choices include:
- Community Colleges: Miami Dade College, Santa Monica College, Houston Community College
- Universities with international student support: Arizona State University, University of Florida, University of Illinois Chicago
5. Take the Required Tests
Many schools require:
- TOEFL or IELTS (if English is not your first language)
- SAT or ACT (some universities require this, but many are test-optional)
6. Apply for Financial Aid & Scholarships
As a J-1 visa holder, you may have limited access to federal financial aid, but many universities and private organizations offer scholarships for international students. Websites like:
- EducationUSA
- Fastweb
These websites can help you find funding options.
7. Apply to Schools: Once you have your diploma evaluation, test scores, and visa situation sorted out, you can start applying! Most schools allow you to apply online, and community colleges often have more flexible admissions policies.
Your next step depends on whether you want to start at a community college or go straight to a university. Either way, getting your diploma evaluated and checking visa options should be your priority.
Best wishes!
Thank you, this is amazing! I really needed it.
Laura
You're welcome!
Chinyere Okafor
Uran James
Electrician and architecture engineering
7
Answers
Mexico City, Mexico
Updated
Uran’s Answer
Dr H's advice on checking school-specific evaluation requirements to avoid unnecessary costs is spot on—smart and strategic. Chinyere's emphasis on financial planning and scholarships is also crucial for J-1 visa holders.
Final suggestion? Laura you should first confirm your visa options, then choose between a direct university route or a community college transfer pathway to maximize affordability and opportunities.
Final suggestion? Laura you should first confirm your visa options, then choose between a direct university route or a community college transfer pathway to maximize affordability and opportunities.