UNITED STATES · BAY MINETTE
Coastal Alabama Community College
public · Founded 1965 · Languages: en
In short
Coastal Alabama Community College is a public institution in Southwest Alabama offering over 100 programs with an open-door admissions policy. It provides an affordable education with a relatively low cost of living for international students.
Key facts
- Type
- Public
- Founded
- 1965
- Students
- 9,000
- International students
- 150
- Tuition (intl)
- €9–12k/yr
- Languages
- EN
- Location
- Bay Minette, United States
Coastal Alabama Community College is a public two-year institution in Southwest Alabama formed in 2013 through the merger of three predecessor colleges. It operates eight campuses and serves students across five counties, offering more than 100 programmes in career-technical fields, allied health, business, liberal arts, and workforce development. Its open-door admissions policy ensures higher education is accessible to all students in the region.
Why study here
- Offers over 100 diverse programs and pathways, from arts and business to healthcare and industrial technologies.
- Provides flexible class schedules and multiple campus locations across Southwest Alabama to accommodate various student needs.
- Maintains an open-door admissions policy, making higher education accessible regardless of prior academic performance.
- Strong focus on workforce education, preparing students for regional industry demands in healthcare, technology, and skilled trades.
- Engaging campus life with athletics, student clubs, and social events across eight campuses.
Student life
Campus life at Coastal Alabama Community College offers a wide range of opportunities balancing academic learning with recreation, new friendships, and fun. Across its eight campuses, students can engage in outstanding athletics, music, and drama productions, join student clubs, and participate in trips and social activities. The college strives to provide meaningful experiences and foster connections, offering dining options and housing facilities to enhance the overall student experience.
Fees
InternationalOut-of-state and international students pay approximately $8,500–$10,500 per year in tuition and fees. Living costs in Southwest Alabama are relatively low, averaging around $8,000–$10,000 per year.
HomeIn-state tuition is approximately $4,800 per year. Additional fees for books, supplies, and activities may apply. Financial aid, PELL grants, and institutional scholarships are widely available.
LivingCost of living in Southwest Alabama is well below the national average. Students can expect to spend approximately $8,000–$10,000 per year on accommodation, food, and personal expenses.
Tuition and fees are due before classes begin. Students without complete financial aid may enrol in a payment plan. Late registration incurs an additional fee.
Admissions
ApplicationComplete the online application and create a User Name and PIN.
TranscriptsSend official high school or college transcripts to the Office of Admissions.
PlacementNew students may be required to take placement assessments in English and mathematics.
TOEFL iBT61 or higher recommended for non-native English speakers
IELTS5.5 or higher
University scholarships
The PACK AwardPartial tuition
Coastal Alabama Foundation ScholarshipsVaries
Academic ScholarshipsVaries
Athletic ScholarshipsVaries
Accreditation
Coastal Alabama Community College offers degree programmes that may lead to professional licensure with the State of Alabama. The college is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate degrees. Various health-related programmes hold additional professional accreditations.
For international students
United StatesStudent visa & funds
International students primarily enter on the F-1 visa, which requires enrolment at a SEVP-certified institution. Before the visa interview the school issues a Form I-20 — a certificate of eligibility — for which a Designated School Official must verify documented funds covering tuition, living expenses and travel for the first year, plus a reliable source for subsequent years. The financial evidence must be specific and from an identified source.
Working while you study
F-1 students may work on campus up to 20 hours per week while classes are in session and full-time during official breaks, with no separate authorization needed. Off-campus work is generally not permitted in the first academic year. After one academic year in good standing, students may use Curricular Practical Training (CPT) for paid work that is an integral part of the curriculum, authorized by the school; other off-campus work requires an approved Employment Authorization Document from USCIS.
After you graduate
After completing a degree, F-1 students may apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) — up to 12 months of work authorization in a related field — by filing Form I-765 and receiving an EAD before starting work. Graduates of a degree on the DHS STEM Designated Degree Program List may apply for a 24-month STEM OPT extension, for up to 36 months total. The extension requires an E-Verify employer and a qualifying STEM degree earned within the previous ten years.
English tests
- IELTSUG 6.0–6.5; PG 6.5–7.0; top-tier programs 7.0–7.5
- TOEFL iBTUG 80–100; PG 90–110; selective research universities 100+
- PTE AcademicUG 50–60; PG 55–70; highly selective programs 65+
Main intakes
AugustJanuary
Typical living cost
€1,420/month
Approximate all-in student budget; major cities run higher.
SourcesStudy in the States — Students and the Form I-20 · Study in the States — Financial ability · USCIS — Students and employment · USCIS — Optional Practical Training (OPT) for F-1 students · USCIS — STEM OPT extension · LeapScholar — Minimum IELTS scores for USA universities · Mastersportal — Student living costs in the USA (2025–2026)
Programs
a selectionCoastal Alabama Community College · United States
Airframe Technology Certificate
This certificate program is designed to prepare students for careers as certified aviation maintenance technicians with an airframe endorsement. You will gain the necessary skills and knowledge to take the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) written, oral, and practical examinations for certification. The program focuses on practical, hands-on training for direct entry into the workforce upon completion.
Certificate
Level
—
Tuition
16 mo
Duration
Coastal Alabama Community College · United States
Cosmetology Certificate
The Cosmetology program at Coastal Alabama Community College equips you with the essential skills for a career in the beauty industry. You will learn to cut, style, and color hair, perform nail care, apply makeup, and provide massages. The curriculum begins with foundational classroom instruction, progresses to hands-on practice with mannequins and peers, and culminates in working with live clients in a salon setting. This program is designed for direct entry into the workforce as a licensed cosmetologist.
Certificate
Level
—
Tuition
9 mo
Duration
Coastal Alabama Community College · United States
Culinary Arts (AAS-CUA)
The Culinary Arts Associate in Applied Science (AAS-CUA) program at Coastal Alabama Community College is designed to equip students with the essential skills and knowledge for success in the dynamic culinary and hospitality industry. This program focuses on integrating general education with professional and career-oriented skills, aiming to prepare graduates for immediate employment in high-growth sectors. Students will gain theoretical understanding and practical experience through a comprehensive curriculum, supported by excellent faculty, service, and facilities. The program emphasizes preparing management personnel for the culinary arts and hospitality industry.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
24 mo
Duration
Coastal Alabama Community College · United States
Paramedic Certificate
The Paramedic Certificate program at Coastal Alabama Community College prepares students to provide advanced medical care in pre-hospital settings. Under physician supervision, graduates will be skilled in recognizing, assessing, and managing a wide range of medical emergencies. The curriculum covers essential EMT procedures, surgical techniques, triage, crisis management, and patient stabilization. The program aims to equip students with the cognitive knowledge, psychomotor skills, and affective behaviors necessary to excel as competent paramedics.
Certificate
Level
—
Tuition
15 mo
Duration
Coastal Alabama Community College · United States
Pastry and Baking Certificate
This certificate program is designed to equip students with the essential skills and knowledge for a career in the pastry and baking industry. It focuses on practical training aligned with the standards set by the American Culinary Federation. Upon completion, graduates will be prepared to enter the workforce directly. While some courses may be transferable to four-year degree programs, this certificate is primarily intended for immediate employment rather than as a transfer pathway.
Certificate
Level
—
Tuition
15 mo
Duration
Coastal Alabama Community College · United States
Powerplant Technology Certificate
This certificate program is designed to prepare students for a career as an aviation maintenance technician with a Powerplant endorsement. Upon successful completion, students will be eligible to take the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) written, oral, and practical examinations for certification. The program focuses on practical skills and knowledge directly applicable to the labor market.
Certificate
Level
—
Tuition
15 mo
Duration
Scholarships
for United States
full fundingDuke University
Karsh International Scholarship Program
Open to international (non-U.S. citizen, non-permanent-resident) high school students applying for first-year undergraduate admission to Duke University. Candidates must demonstrate financial need through Duke's need-based aid process, show interdisciplinary academic curiosity, and have a record of community engagement. There is no separate scholarship form; international applicants who indicate they are applying for financial aid are automatically considered for the Karsh award.
full
Funding
€320k
Max
Jan 2, 2027
Deadline
full fundingUniversity of Miami (with the Stamps Family Charitable Foundation)
University of Miami Stamps Scholarship
Open to high school seniors, both domestic (U.S.) and international, applying for first-year undergraduate admission to the University of Miami through Early Decision I or Early Action. Applicants are automatically considered with no separate scholarship form; they must submit all first-year admission requirements and demonstrate strong academic achievement, leadership, and community involvement. Semi-finalists complete a Zoom interview.
full
Funding
€260k
Max
Nov 1, 2026
Deadline
full fundingQuestBridge
QuestBridge National College Match Scholarship
Open to high-achieving US high school seniors from low-income backgrounds who are US citizens, permanent residents, or students studying in the US regardless of citizenship. Competitive applicants typically earn mostly A's in challenging courses, rank in the top 5-10% of their class, and have strong standardised test results (SAT/PSAT above 1310 or ACT above 28), though each application is read in context. Applicants must demonstrate strong writing, intellectual curiosity and determination through essays and recommendations. Matched students must attend a partner college as a binding-early-decision commitment.
full
Funding
€185k
Max
Sep 26, 2026
Deadline
full fundingArgonne National Laboratory
Maria Goeppert Mayer Fellowship at Argonne National Laboratory
Open to early-career scientists and engineers of all nationalities who hold a PhD awarded within the last three years at the time of application, or who will complete the PhD before the fellowship start date. Research interests must align with Argonne's mission areas. U.S. citizenship is required for national-security-related projects (Detection of Imaging Signatures).
full
Funding
€130k
Max
Oct 1, 2026
Deadline
partial fundingBoustany Foundation / Harvard Business School
Boustany MBA Harvard Scholarship
Open to candidates of any nationality (priority to those of Lebanese descent) who have received an offer of admission to the Harvard MBA programme and have a strong academic background.
partial
Funding
€100k
Max
May 31, 2027
Deadline
full fundingStanford University
Knight-Hennessy Scholars
Open to citizens of any country who earned their first/bachelor's degree within the last ~7 years (or will by the Stanford start) and who apply for and gain admission to a full-time Stanford graduate program. Selection seeks independence of thought, purposeful leadership, and a civic mindset.
full
Funding
€90k
Max
Oct 8, 2026
Deadline
Frequently asked questions
What are the estimated annual costs for international students at Coastal Alabama Community College?
+
International students can expect to pay approximately $8,500–$10,500 per year for tuition and fees. Living costs in Southwest Alabama are also relatively low, averaging around $8,000–$10,000 per year for accommodation, food, and personal expenses.
Does Coastal Alabama Community College offer programs for international students?
+
Yes, Coastal Alabama Community College offers over 100 diverse programs and pathways, including career-technical fields, allied health, business, and liberal arts, catering to a wide range of student interests.
What are the English language proficiency requirements for international students?
+
For non-native English speakers, a TOEFL iBT score of 61 or higher is recommended. An IELTS score of 5.5 or higher is also accepted.
What is the admissions policy for international students?
+
Coastal Alabama Community College has an open-door admissions policy, making higher education accessible. International students will need to meet specific English proficiency requirements and submit official transcripts.
Where is Coastal Alabama Community College located and what is the cost of living like?
+
The college serves Southwest Alabama with multiple campuses. The cost of living in this region is well below the national average, with estimated annual living expenses around $8,000–$10,000.
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