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.
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.
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
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.
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:
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.
Semester dates: TBA
Deadline: TBA
Semester dates: TBA
Deadline: TBA
Your study abroad dream is closer than ever. Apply now and start your adventure!