A community college is an excellent starting point in the American system of higher (post secondary) education. A community college offers students a variety of educational and career choices. You can earn an Associate Degree (two-year degree) in a specific vocational or technical field or "transfer" (use your course credits earned at the community college) to pursue a Bachelor's Degree (four year university degree) at another U.S. college or university.

More and more International and American students are choosing community colleges as an alternative for the first two years of the U.S. Bachelor's Degree.

BCC has a long history and strong commitment to international education. International students have been attending BCC for over 25 years. BCC welcomes international students to its campus and has years of experience in helping them meet their educational and career goals. About 100 international students from nearly 30 different countries currently attend the College.

2) Small Classes and Faculty Contact.

International students like the small classes and personal attention they receive at BCC. Students are taught by experienced professors who are dedicated to teaching and use the latest technology available in their field. Our faculty members are available to meet with students individually to help them with academic problems and concerns. This type of attention is not always available to students at large research universities in the United States. International students can also use the free tutoring services available through our Learning Assistance Center if they need extra help with their studies.

3) Ease of Transfer to U.S. Universities.

Many of BCC’s international students plan to continue their education in the U.S. to earn a Bachelor’s Degree. BCC has university-parallel degree programs specifically designed to fulfill the first two years of university study in the U.S. International students who decide to transfer usually earn a Bachelor’s Degree in only two additional years of study. BCC has developed special transfer agreements with dozens of U.S. universities. Our international students have transferred to prestigious universities across the United States!

4) Affordability.

International students choose BCC because of our very affordable tuition and living expenses. When you compare our tuition to the high tuition and expenses at other U.S. colleges and universities, you will see that Broome Community College offers a quality education at a very reasonable cost.

5) Our English-As-A-Second Language (ESL) Program

International students who need to improve their English language skills can enroll in our ESL program. ESL courses are offered at the Lower, Intermediate I, Intermediate II and Advanced levels. Our ESL classes are taught by experienced ESL instructors. Courses in reading, writing and speaking prepare international students for university level studies. International students can take advanced level ESL classes along with regular academic classes. Advanced ESL course credits apply toward degree requirements in all the College’s programs of study.

At Broome Community College, international students are accepted directly into a degree program and enroll in the appropriate ESL course level based on their English language proficiency. Students do not need to reapply for admission to the College once they complete their ESL instruction. Our international students enjoy the uniqueness of a small college that integrates its ESL classes with regular academic study.