In short
Seattle Colleges offers an affordable pathway to American higher education with over 50,000 students across three campuses in Seattle. It provides diverse programs, strong university transfer options, and numerous scholarship opportunities for international students.
Key facts
- Type
- Public
- Founded
- 1966
- Students
- 5,763
- International students
- 2,500
- Tuition (intl)
- €9–12k/yr
- Languages
- EN
- Location
- Seattle, United States
Seattle Colleges is a public community college district comprising Seattle Central, North Seattle, and South Seattle Colleges, serving over 50,000 students in the Seattle metropolitan area. The district offers a wide range of programs from career-technical certificates to bachelor's degrees, with strong university transfer pathways. With campuses across Seattle, students benefit from an affordable entry point into American higher education in one of the country's most innovative and economically vibrant cities.
Why study here
- Affordable tuition with generous scholarship opportunities — over 50% of applicants receive a Foundation Scholarship.
- Strong transfer pathways to major universities including the University of Washington, often with guaranteed admission agreements.
- Three distinct campuses in Seattle, each with unique program strengths and community character.
- F-1 visa eligible with on-campus work opportunities to help fund your studies.
- Located in Seattle, home to major tech companies offering networking and internship opportunities.
Student life
Life at Seattle Colleges is diverse and community-oriented. Students can engage in student government, clubs, cultural organizations, and honor societies such as Phi Theta Kappa. Seattle itself provides a rich urban environment with abundant outdoor recreation, arts, and cultural events. The International Programs offices at each campus provide dedicated support services, orientation programs, and community events tailored for international students.
Fees
Internationalapprox. $8,500–$12,000 USD/year (international tuition)
Homeapprox. $4,500–$5,500 USD/year (in-state tuition)
Livingapprox. $15,000–$18,000 USD/year in Seattle
Tuition is charged per credit. International students typically take 15 credits per quarter. Foundation Scholarships can reduce costs significantly. Health insurance is required.
Admissions
AcademicHigh school diploma or equivalent; open admission policy
ApplicationOnline application; no SAT/ACT required for most programs
VisaF-1 student visa; proof of financial support required
DocumentsTranscripts, passport copy, financial statement, proof of English proficiency
TOEFL iBT46–61 (varies by campus and program)
IELTS5.5–6.0
Duolingo English Test90–100
University scholarships
Seattle Colleges Foundation ScholarshipsAverage ~$5,000/year
International Programs Tuition Support Awards$1,000–$3,000
LewerMark Scholarships$2,500–$3,000 (fall and spring)
Partner Universities Transfer ScholarshipsVaries by destination university
Accreditation
Seattle Colleges is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU), ensuring its credits are transferable to four-year universities across the United States.
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 selectionSeattle Colleges · United States
Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) Degrees
Seattle Colleges offers Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) degrees designed to provide specialized, hands-on education focused on specific industries. These four-year programs build upon two-year technical degrees and aim to enhance career opportunities. They often incorporate applied learning, industry-focused training, and internship components, with potential for credit for prior learning and workplace experience.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
48 mo
Duration
Seattle Colleges · United States
Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) in Accounting with International Accounting
The Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) in Accounting with International Accounting (AIA) program at North Seattle College prepares students for careers in accounting. It provides a strong foundation in accounting principles, including U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and auditing standards. The program also focuses on International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), equipping graduates with skills relevant to global business and the Seattle area's international market. Graduates will gain practical skills such as workload organization, financial statement preparation, and the use of accounting software. The program is designed to help students meet the requirements for the Washington State CPA licensure. International students are eligible to apply, but should note that upper-division courses are online, requiring careful planning for any on-campus attendance needed for F-1 visa compliance.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
—
Duration
Seattle Colleges · United States
Bachelor of Applied Science in Application Development
The Bachelor of Applied Science (B.A.S.) in Application Development is designed for students who already hold an associate's degree, a technical degree, or have completed at least two years of college credit. This program focuses on equipping students with the essential skills required for software development. You will learn to create, develop, and modify various types of software, including general computer applications, mobile applications, and specialized utility programs. The curriculum emphasizes analyzing user needs and developing practical software solutions to meet those needs. You'll gain experience in designing and customizing software for clients, with a strong focus on solving real-world problems. This degree prepares you for diverse roles in the technology sector and in IT departments across various industries.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
—
Duration
Seattle Colleges · United States
Bachelor of Applied Science in Applied Behavioral Science
Seattle Central College offers a Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) degree in Applied Behavioral Science. This program is designed to equip you with the educational foundation necessary to pursue leadership roles within the human services field. It focuses on providing practical skills and knowledge for impactful careers. The curriculum aims to prepare graduates for diverse roles that support individuals and communities. The degree emphasizes a blend of theoretical understanding and practical application, ensuring students are well-prepared for the demands of the human services sector.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
—
Duration
Seattle Colleges · United States
Computer Science - Associate in Computer Science DTA/MRP
The Computer Science Associate in Computer Science DTA/MRP program at Seattle Colleges provides a pathway for students interested in pursuing careers or further education in the field of computer science. This program focuses on the foundational theories, experimentation, and engineering principles that underpin computer design and application. Students will gain knowledge in programming languages like Python and Java, and explore related fields such as computer engineering and applied computing. This associate degree is designed as a transfer degree, preparing students to seamlessly transition to a four-year university to complete a bachelor's degree. It covers essential computer science topics and equips students with the skills needed for various technology-focused roles.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
18 mo
Duration
Seattle Colleges · United States
Early Childhood Education
The Early Childhood Education (ECE) program at North Seattle College is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to become high-quality educators and advocates for young children and their families. The curriculum is grounded in anti-bias principles, current child development research, and family-centered practices. The program offers multiple pathways, including stackable certificates, an Associate of Applied Sciences (AAS) degree, and a Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS). Students can begin with the Early Childhood Initial Certificate. The program is flexible, with classes offered in the evenings, on weekends, and online, catering to students who are balancing work and other responsibilities. Prior learning assessment is available for those with relevant professional experience or training.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
—
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 is Seattle Colleges?
+
Seattle Colleges is a public community college district comprising Seattle Central, North Seattle, and South Seattle Colleges. It offers a wide range of programs from career-technical certificates to bachelor's degrees, with strong university transfer pathways.
What are the estimated tuition fees for international students?
+
International student tuition is approximately $8,500–$12,000 USD per year. Tuition is charged per credit, and international students typically take 15 credits per quarter.
Are there scholarship opportunities for international students?
+
Yes, Seattle Colleges offers significant scholarship opportunities. Over 50% of applicants receive a Foundation Scholarship, and other awards like the International Programs Tuition Support Awards are also available.
What are the English proficiency requirements for international students?
+
International students can demonstrate English proficiency through TOEFL iBT (46–61), IELTS (5.5–6.0), or the Duolingo English Test (90–100), with scores varying slightly by campus and program.
Can international students transfer to four-year universities after studying at Seattle Colleges?
+
Yes, Seattle Colleges has strong transfer pathways to major universities, including the University of Washington, often with guaranteed admission agreements. Transfer scholarships are also available.
What are the living costs for students in Seattle?
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The estimated cost of living in Seattle is approximately $15,000–$18,000 USD per year. This includes housing, food, and other daily expenses.
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