Santa Monica College

USA

Live the California dream! Study at Santa Monica College and enjoy affordable education at one of California’s best transfer programs. Experience the American college life and enjoy the perfect balance of studies and social life.

About Santa Monica College

Dreaming of studying in California? Santa Monica College (SMC) might be your perfect match! SMC’s campus is located just minutes from Santa Monica Beach and the Pacific Ocean. Imagine finishing class and heading straight to the beach to relax, surf, or watch the sunset with friends. 

Santa Monica College primarily offers associate degrees (2-year programs) and certificates in a wide range of fields. The college is especially known for its transfer program, which helps students complete their first two years of college and then transfer to a 4-year university to finish their bachelor’s degree. SMC has one of the highest transfer rates to top universities like UCLA, UC Berkeley, and USC. 

Outside of class, life is never boring. Santa Monica is packed with fun: art galleries, restaurants, shopping, and free events. Among all these you will find surfers and beach lions taking care of the water. The city is bike-friendly, and the Big Blue Bus makes it easy to get around. 

Weekends can turn into epic adventures: take a road trip on Highway 1, relax in Malibu, visit Hollywood, explore national parks, and even watch a game at Dodger Stadium. Studying at Santa Monica College is not just about academics; it is about embracing everything California has to offer. 

study fields:

Arts: Dance, Fashion Design, Fashion Merchandising, Film Production, Graphic Design, Music, Photography, Theatre

Economics & Business: Business, Economics, Marketing

Health & Human Services: Cosmetology

Humanities: Communication, Journalism

Science & Mathematics: Computer Science, Web Development

Social Sciences: Political Science, Psychology

Accommodation:

Santa Monica College does not offer on-campus housing. However, the college provides support for students seeking off-campus housing options, such as apartments, shared housing, and student accommodations in the surrounding Santa Monica area.

FAQ about Santa Monica College

Questions about studying at Santa Monica College? We know it is an exciting but big step! Here are some of our most frequently asked questions.

Yes, international students are required to obtain a F-1 student visa to study in the United States.  

Student visa requirements may vary depending on nationality, so be sure to consult with the U.S. embassy in your home country for specific details. 

Want to learn more about visas for studying abroad? Check out our FAQ for more info on student visa.

To apply to Santa Monica College, you need:

  • Completed Application Form
  • Academic Transcripts
  • Proof of English Proficiency 
  • Passport Copy 
  • Financial Documentation
  • Personal Statement
The required documents to apply to Santa Monica College may vary depending on your nationality and study program. Reach out to us for clear guidance on what documents you need!

Yes, health insurance is mandatory for all international students at Santa Monica College, and they must enroll in the college’s health insurance plan.

Learn more about study abroad insurance in our FAQ.

Yes, Santa Monica College offers various scholarships to students. Check the college’s official website for more information about available scholarships, application deadlines and how to apply.

Learn more about study abroad scholarships and get our best tips on how to write a scholarship application.

Santa Monica College (SMC) has been recognized for its film program, being named one of the Top 30 Best.

Santa Monica beach
Santa Monica pier
USA nature

Next semesters dates

Fall 2026

Semester dates: TBA
Deadline: TBA

Spring 2027

Semester dates: TBA
Deadline: TBA

Want to study at Santa Monica College?

Your study abroad dream is closer than ever. Apply now and start your adventure!