How do I enroll at one of the NHMCCD colleges?
Enrollment involves three processes: admission, advisement and course enrollment. Once you have decided on a location, contact the International Student Advisor at that college or fill out the enclosed application. Submit your application and all supporting paperwork described on the page entitled “International Student Admissions”. Once you have been accepted for admission into a college, your advisor will send you a welcome packet containing a SEVIS I-20 form, which you will use to obtain your student visa at a local U.S. embassy or consulate. Prior to interviewing for the student visa, you will be required to pay the SEVIS fee via mail using the I-901 form, Western Union, or by logging on to www.fmjfee.com. You must present your receipt to the U.S. embassy or consulate before being permitted to interview.
Upon arrival, contact your advisor to make an appointment for placement testing. Based on the results of your placement testing, advisors will assist you in choosing classes according to your goals and abilities. Keep in mind that you may be required to enroll in an Intensive English Program prior to enrolling in courses for academic credit.
You will be required to attend an international student orientation. Orientation is designed to help you make the best possible transition to the U.S. Specific dates for the orientation will be given to you by your International Student Advisor.
How many international students are there at NHMCCD?
The numbers vary with each college. At NHMCCD, there are currently over 1100 international students from 72 different countries. North Harris College has the largest international student population, followed by Tomball College, Montgomery College, Cy-Fair College, and Kingwood College.
Is financial aid available for international students?
No, international students should be prepared to pay all expenses, both educational and living.
How much will it cost to attend NHMCCD?
Information about tuition and fees is available online. >>Read about tuition and fees
When do I pay for my tuition and fees?
Information about payment due dates is available online. >>Read about payment due dates
Do the NHMCCD colleges have on-campus housing?
No, we do not have on-campus housing.
When are the deadlines to apply for admission?
New Students:
Your application and required documentation must be on file in the admissions office by the following dates:
July 1st - Fall Semester
November 1st - Spring Semester
April 1st - Summer Semester
U.S. Based Transfer Students:
Please submit transfer forms and all required documentation to the admissions office in a timely manner in order to process your application.
How many classes must I take?
An F-1 international student must enroll in and maintain a minimum of 12 credit hours per semester as required by USCIS rules and regulations.
Some NHMCCD programs (nursing, veterinary technology, etc.) have special enrollment requirements.
How can I enter these special programs?
Entrance into these programs is competitive, and they have a separate application and admission process for each program. Acceptance at an NHMCCD college does not guarantee acceptance into one of these programs. In most cases, you will need to complete your English and other academic prerequisites before applying to one of these specialized programs. For more information, contact your International Student Advisor.
As an F-1 student, am I allowed to work?
The USCIS allows international students to work on-campus for up to 20 hours per week. However, the number of available positions is extremely limited.
Must I take the NHMCCD placement test?
Yes, placement testing is required and ensures that you will be enrolled in appropriate classes according to your abilities in English and math. Our Intensive English program and Developmental Studies program are designed to provide excellent preparation for our credit classes. Our mission is to create successful college students, and if your test scores indicate a need for these programs, it will be time well invested. All NHMCCD students are subject to the academic requirements of the State of Texas and NHMCCD.
Can I transfer credit from a foreign college or university?
Yes, degree-seeking students who have college or university credits outside the U.S. and wish to transfer their credits to NHMCCD must submit a course-by-course evaluation. A list of approved evaluation services can be provided.
Can I FAX or send photocopies of my application materials? (bank statement, transcripts, etc.)?
Yes, prospective international students may fax or send photocopies of application materials. Original documents should be kept and presented when applying to the U.S. embassy or consulate.