Peninsula College International Programs welcomes students from around the world to become part of our community and enjoy one of the most beautiful college campuses in the Pacific Northwest.
We provide individual attention from admissions to graduation and are available to help you with any questions or services to get you started!
- Admissions & Arrival: Visa, Airport Pick-Up & Housing Placement
- Getting Started: Area and College Orientation, Placement Testing & Registration
- Advising: Immigration and OPT, Academic Planning & University Transfer
- Additional Support: Personal Counseling, Tutoring & Health Insurance
- Activities: Volunteer Opportunities, College Clubs, Athletics, Local Trips & Community Events
At Peninsula College, learning is not confined to enclosed classrooms or the lecture hall. Instead, the entire campus and the Olympic Peninsula become teaching laboratories as students and faculty move outdoors to take full advantage of all that our unique area has to offer. Our international students transfer to many prominent universities in their preferred fields of study.
- International Programs Admission Requirements
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We’re excited you’re considering Peninsula College! Whether you’re planning to join us on campus in beautiful Port Angeles or study with us online, our application process is simple to complete.
Students Applying from Abroad (Visa Students)
If you’ll be applying for a student visa to study on campus, here’s what you’ll need:
- Application Form
- Proof of English Proficiency
You can meet this requirement in one of these ways:- TOEFL iBT: 61+
- IELTS: 5.5+
- Duolingo English Test: 90+
- LanguageCert: B2 Level or higher
- Native speaker from an English-speaking country
- At least two years of high school taught entirely in English
- Any standardized test that meets the equivalents above.
- Financial Documentation
- Submit a complete bank statement from the last three months showing at least six months of transactions and enough funds for one academic year. Complete the Affidavit of Financial Support (PDF to be added to the website).
Affidavit of Financial Support
- Copy of Passport Provide a clear, readable copy of the identification page of your passport.
- School Transcripts Copies of your most recent school records (high school or college).
- Application Fee Pay the non-refundable $55.00 USD application fee when submitting your application.
Apply to International Programs
Transfer Students (Already in the U.S.)
If you are transferring from another U.S. school:
- Submit the same documents as above.
- Provide copies of your current and past I-20s.
- Notify your current school of your intention to transfer so they are ready to release your I-20 to Peninsula College once you are accepted.
Online Students (Outside the U.S.)
If you are applying for our fully online programs:
- Submit the same documents as above, except the bank statement and Affidavit of Financial Support.
Tuition & Payment Information
- Tuition and fees are due as listed on the academic calendar, usually 2–3 weeks before the start of each term. International students, including online students, must pay prior to the due date through their student accounts in ctcLink.
After completing the online application, please submit all additional information via one of the following methods:
E-mail: international@pencol.edu
Post/Mail:
International Student and Faculty Services (C-2)
Peninsula College
1502 East Lauridsen Blvd
Port Angeles, WA 98362 U.S.A.Fax: 1 (360) 417-6482
Life at Peninsula College
- 2025–26 Expenses, Fees & Program Dates
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Expense Guidelines 2025–2026
Fees subject to change without notice.
Fees Each Quarter Academic Year Tuition (15 credits) $3,940 USD $11,820 USD Books (Estimated) $250 USD $750 USD Room & Board $2,250 USD $6,750 USD Health Insurance $595 USD $1,784 USD Student Fees* $210 USD $630 USD Estimated Total $7,245 USD $21,734 USD - The above does not include personal expenses.
- Peninsula College requires all international students to have health insurance that meets a set minimum requirement.
- Tuition rates are based on taking 15 credits each quarter.
- Room & Board is based on the Peninsula College International Student Homestay rates.
- The College has no control of housing costs outside of the Homestay program.
*Fees include student life fees, parking fees, graduation fees, and technology fees. They do not include fees related to classes such as lab fees.
Fees for International Students
- Application Fee: $55.00 USD
For all incoming students. - International Student Accommodation Service Fee: $250.00 USD
For all students except those who arrange their own housing. - Airport Pick-Up Fee: $175.00 USD
For all students except those who arrange their own transportation from SeaTac airport to Port Angeles.
2025–2026 International Program Dates
Fall Quarter 2025 Earliest Arrival July 27 Classes Begin September 22 Classes End December 10 Break December 11 – January 4 Winter Quarter 2026 Earliest Arrival December 29 Classes Begin January 5 Classes End March 20 Break March 21–31 Spring Quarter 2026 Earliest Arrival March 25 Classes Begin April 1 Classes End June 16 Break June 17–July 1 - Arrival & Transportation
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Welcome to Peninsula College! We’re excited to meet you and want to make sure your journey here is as smooth as possible. Whether you’re arriving from Seattle, Victoria, or another part of Washington, International Programs can help you plan your trip to Port Angeles.
Travel Tips: Keep important documents (passport, I-20, visa) with you, not in your checked luggage. Have U.S. currency or a credit card for transportation costs. Save our phone number—1 (360) 417-6491—in case you need help during travel.
When to Arrive: Plan to arrive at least 1–2 days before orientation so you have time to get settled, adjust to the time zone, and explore your new surroundings. Additionally, please complete the Arrival Confirmation Form with your contact information, arrival date and time, and if pickup service is needed.
Getting to Port Angeles from Seattle, WA
Most international students land at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA). Travel to Port Angeles typically takes 4–5 hours. Below are your main options:
- Dungeness Line Airport Shuttle: Direct bus service from SEA airport to Port Angeles. Visit the Dungeness Line website for schedules and reservations.
- Rocket Transportation Shuttle: Door-to-door shuttle service from SEA airport or the Seattle area to Port Angeles. Advance booking is required.
- International Programs can arrange Rocket Shuttle transportation from SEA Airport directly to Port Angeles for arriving students. The Transportation Fee is $175.00 USD and will be added to your student account. To arrange a pickup, please complete the Arrival Confirmation Form at least two weeks before your arrival.
- Seattle Ferry to Bainbridge Island: Ride the Washington State Ferry from downtown Seattle to Bainbridge Island, then continue by car or public transit.
Washington State Ferry Schedules
- Clallam Transit 123 Bus: The Clallam Transit 123 Bus runs to/from Bainbridge Island Ferry Terminal to/from Port Angeles.
Clallam Transit Route 123 Schedule
- Rental Car: Available at SEA airport if you prefer to drive yourself.
Getting to Port Angeles from Victoria, BC, Canada
Students can also arrive in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada, and take public transportation and the MV Coho Ferry directly to Port Angeles. Please note: If traveling through Canada, you may need a Canadian visa or Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) depending on your nationality. Check Canadian entry requirements before booking.
- Fly into Victoria International Airport (YYJ): Several airlines connect to Victoria from Vancouver, Calgary, Toronto, and other cities.
- From the airport to downtown Victoria: Take the BC Transit Route 88 bus to McTavish Exchange, transfer to Route 72 to downtown Victoria. This trip takes about 45–60 minutes.
- Walk to the Black Ball Ferry Line terminal: Located at 430 Belleville Street in downtown Victoria.
- Take the MV Coho Ferry: The crossing takes about 90 minutes and arrives directly in downtown Port Angeles. Check the Black Ball Ferry schedule and book tickets in advance.
- Walk or take local transit to your housing: Many locations in Port Angeles are a short walk from the ferry dock. Clallam Transit buses and taxis are also available.
- International Student Orientation Guide
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Your step-by-step plan from home to your first week at Peninsula College. Before you arrive:
1. Book Your Travel Plan: Plan to arrive in Port Angeles a few days before classes begin. You can fly into Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) or Victoria International Airport (YYJ) and travel to Port Angeles by shuttle, bus, or ferry. If you want Peninsula College to arrange your airport pickup, complete the International Student Arrival Form. The transportation fee is $175.00 USD and will be added to your student account.
2. Arrange Your Health Insurance: You must have active health insurance starting the day before you arrive and ending the day after you leave. You may bring your own plan or purchase our recommended insurance through LewerGlobal. If using LewerGlobal, please choose your dates carefully, pay monthly, and select the Adventure Package only if you plan extreme sports like skydiving or scuba diving.
3. Prepare Your Documents: Carry these in your hand luggage:
- Passport with F-1 visa
- I-20 form
- Health insurance proof
- U.S. address (if known)
- Acceptance letter from Peninsula College
4. Think About Money: Bring a small amount of U.S. cash for your first few days. Consider bringing a credit/debit card that works internationally until you open a U.S. bank account. You must be at least 16 years old to open a bank account.
5. Pack for Port Angeles Weather: Pack layers—T-shirts, sweaters, a warm jacket, raincoat, and comfortable shoes. Winters are rainy and mild; summers are warm and sunny. Bring any prescription medications with original packaging and a copy of your prescription.
Your First Week at Peninsula College
Day 1–2—Settle In: Move into your housing. Meet your roommate, host family, or landlord. Explore nearby grocery stores, coffee shops, and bus stops.
Day 3—Transportation & Banking: Use your student ID for free Clallam Transit bus rides, including the Route 123 bus (Strait Shot) from the Bainbridge Island Ferry terminal. If coming from Victoria, take the Blackball (Coho) ferry to Port Angeles (remember to check passport/visa requirements). Open a U.S. bank account (Chase Bank is recommended). Bring your passport, I-20, and local address.
Day 4—Technology & Phone Setup: Get a U.S. phone number (eSIM or SIM card from providers like Mint Mobile, Verizon, or Walmart). Log in to ctcLink (register for classes, check grades, pay tuition). Log in to Canvas (access course materials and assignments).
Day 5—Orientation: Meet International Programs staff and International Student Mentors. Take placement tests, if needed. Finalize your class schedule with your academic advisor. Learn about campus resources such as tutoring, library, student center, and gym.
Day 6—Immigration Requirements: Attend the F-1 visa information session. Remember: you must take at least 12 credits per quarter, 10 of which must be in-person or hybrid. Keep a GPA of 2.0 or higher to avoid probation and possible termination of your I-20. Report any address or phone changes to International Programs within 10 days.
Day 7—Get Involved: Sign up for clubs, sports, or campus events. Meet classmates at welcome activities. Explore Port Angeles, Olympic National Park, and the waterfront.
Extra Tips for a Smooth Start
- Health Services: The NOHM Mobile Clinic visits campus every Wednesday for basic medical care.
- Safety: Call 911 for emergencies, sign up for PC Alerts, and always carry your student ID.
- Cultural Adjustment: Culture shock is normal, so expect some homesickness—get involved on campus and talk to student mentors, teammates, coaches, instructors, International Program Staff, and Peninsula College counselor if you’re feeling down.
- Weather: Check the forecast daily and dress for rain during fall, winter, and spring.
- Housing Options
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Peninsula College offers international students three options for housing—Homestay, Collegiate Housing & Off-Campus Apartments. Our staff will assist you with each option and ensure you select the best option for your lifestyle.
Homestay
Our Homestay Coordinator carefully selects warm and welcoming Homestay families to satisfy our students' desire to learn English, introduce them to the beauty of the Olympic Peninsula, provide opportunities to participate in household activities, and help our students learn life skills to become more independent. Student satisfaction with their Homestay experience is one of our top priorities.
A full homestay includes:
- Three meals daily – access to the kitchen and food made available for breakfast and lunch; dinner prepared by the Homestay Host on most nights (at least five nights a week)
- A clean, private room with a desk, a lamp, and a bed
- Laundry facilities
- Access to transportation to the College
- Access to Internet
- A supportive living environment for English language learning
- Invitations to be included in family activities.
Collegiate Housing International—CHI Port Angeles
Collegiate Housing International Port Angeles is two blocks from campus and completely furnished. All you need is your backpack and your suitcase! CHI is a privately-owned and operated housing company working with Peninsula College to provide a complete residence life experience for their guests. Please visit CHI Port Angeles for pricing, details, and to apply for residency.
Off-Campus Apartments
Peninsula College refers students who wish to live off-campus to local apartment management sources. Students can choose apartments with one or more bedrooms. Meals are not provided with off-campus housing. Most apartments are located within a short distance from Peninsula College and are accessible by bus.
- Health Insurance
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Peninsula College requires all international students to have health insurance while studying in the U.S. You may choose any plan that meets your needs, or you can use our recommended provider.
Why Health Insurance is Important: Healthcare in the United States can be very expensive without insurance. Even a short hospital stay can cost thousands of dollars. Having health insurance ensures you can get the care you need without facing large bills.
Bring Your Own Plan
You may purchase health insurance from any company you prefer. Be sure your plan:
- Covers you in the United States
- Is valid for your entire stay at Peninsula College
- Provides coverage for emergency care, hospitalization, and doctor visits You will need to submit proof of insurance (in English, with coverage amounts in USD) to International Programs during the first week of each quarter.
Recommended Plan: LewerGlobal
Many students choose LewerGlobal International Student Health Insurance because it is designed for students in the U.S. and easy to manage.
How to set up your policy:
- Coverage Dates: Start your plan the day before you arrive in the U.S. and end it the day after you plan to leave the following summer.
- Monthly Payment: Pay for your policy each month.
- Customer Service: LewerGlobal offers support to answer questions and help with claims.
- Country of Residence: When completing the application, select your home country, not the United States.
- Adventure Package: Only select this option if you plan to do extreme sports such as skydiving, bungee jumping, scuba diving, or similar activities.
LewerGlobal Health Insurance for Peninsula College
Healthcare on Campus: NOHM Mobile Clinic
The NOHM Mobile Clinic visits campus every Wednesday to provide basic medical services to students. Services may include health screenings, treatment for minor illnesses, and referrals for additional care.
Academics at Peninsula College
- High School Completion (HSC)
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In Washington State, students can bypass up to two years of high school, take required college classes, and receive a high school diploma, transferable college credits, or a two-year college Associate Degree.
This program is only suitable for students with proven academic success and demonstrated maturity.
High School Completion Application Requirements:
- You must be 16 years or older and have completed the equivalent of U.S. 10th grade or higher in your home country.
- You must demonstrate passing grades at each completed level of high school.
- You must submit original transcripts for the equivalent of U.S. 9th and 10th grade.
- English Proficiency: Students qualify for direct admission into our academic program if they meet one our approved English Proficiency requirements.
High School Completion Diploma Requirements:
- You must meet with an academic advisor each quarter and complete an academic plan. After your transcript is evaluated at Peninsula College, your required courses for HSC will be listed in your academic plan.
- If you plan to also complete an Associate Degree, your advisor will help you plan to use your HSC courses toward your Associate Degree.
- You are required to earn minimum ACT test scores of: Math: 16; Reading: 13; Writing: 15; Science: 16
- The ACT test may be taken at Sequim High School. Students must register for the test in advance.
Underage Requirements:
In the United States, students under the age of 18 are considered to be minors. For the safety and well-being of minors, Peninsula College requires that these students and their parents understand and follow these rules:
Students who do not have a local guardian in the area must live in a homestay until they turn 18 years old. Please review our Housing Options for more information about Peninsula College's Homestay program.
- Submit the underage student form when applying for admission to Peninsula College.
- You must immediately update the International Student and Faculty Services office if you plan to move.
Graduation:
- After completing the program requirements, an official evaluation must be completed prior to graduation. Additonally, students must apply for graduation at Peninsula College.
- Program graduates receive a State of Washington high school diploma from Peninsula College.
- Intensive English as a Second Language
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We prepare international students for academic success in the college environment. We believe that students learn best in a comfortable classroom environment where they actively participate in class.
Minimum English proficiency requirement for placement in Peninsula College’s Intensive English Program is Duolingo 60, TOEFL IBT 31, or accepted equivalency.
Program Details:
- Small classes (less than 15 students) with highly trained and experienced faculty
- On-campus placement exam (No TOEFL required)
- Guaranteed admission into college-level classes after IESL completion
- Academic College Bridge program
- College advising, free tutoring, writing, and computer labs
Program Levels:
Peninsula College offers three levels of IESL which combine Listening/Speaking, Reading, Writing/Grammar, and an Academic Bridge Program.
- Level 1: Basic (space is limited; please inquire)
- Level 2: Intermediate
- Level 3: High-Intermediate
At each level, students learn important skills that prepare them for college-level classes:
- English skills (grammar, writing, reading, and oral communication)
- Academic study skills (class discussion, presentations, note-taking, research)
- American cultural awareness
Earn College Credit while in ESL:
Peninsula College Academic BridgeAllows students with 3.5 or higher GPA to earn college degree credit while completing their language studies. This is an excellent opportunity for IESL students to get the support they need to be successful in degree-level classes.
- Level 1 & 2: Qualified IESL students may also take a college-level physical education course
- Level 3: Qualified IESL students may also select from the following college-level options
- Cross-cultural Communication
- Math (level based on placement test)
- Physical Education
After Intensive English:
- IESL completion
At Peninsula College - Associates Degree (90 credits)
Two years at Peninsula College - Bachelor’s Degree
Two years at transfer university
- Degrees & Certificates
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Associate of Arts, Honors Program
A unique educational program for highly motivated students.Associate of Arts Honors Program
Associate Two-Year/Transfer Degrees
Choose from several Associate two-year degrees that will transfer to university.
2 years at Peninsula College + 2 years at your transfer university = 4 year Bachelor’s DegreeAssociate Two-Year/Transfer Degrees
Professional Technical Degrees & Certificates
Choose a professional-technical degree or certificate that will help your career. - University Transfer
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Students can take two-year Associate Degree at Peninsula College and then transfer to university to complete their four-year Bachelor Degree.
Admission to selective universities is highly competitive and requires advance planning. Students who plan to transfer to a college or university should attend a college transfer workshop (ask your advisor), work with their advisor, and make early contact with their intended transfer school. Each institution has separate admission criteria, which may be based on grades, prerequisite coursework, test scores, and other considerations.
Top 100 universities will generally not give large scholarships because there is high demand for admission. Because of this fact, our advisors also help students identify and apply to very good universities that offer substantial scholarships and are a good fit for their goals.
University Transfer Pathways
Students can also receive Conditional Guaranteed Admission to several choices of university partners. Each cooperating university issues its own admissions letter with its conditions clearly outlined. In order to be admitted to the university, students must meet the requirements outlined in the Pathway Agreement. Students do not have to transfer to the university that offers admission. They will choose their transfer school when they are near completion of their Associate degree.
As an F-1 student it is your responsibility to maintain your F-1 status while studying in the United States. Peninsula College's International Programs is committed to educating our students on their requirements to maintain their F-1 student status. Our program offers orientations, advising appointments, an international student handbook, and additional resources.
Below are additional resources on the basics for how to maintain your F-1 status, employment options as an F-1 student, and travel. If you have any concerns or questions regarding your F-1 status please schedule an appointment at the International Office to meet with your advisor.
- Applying for Student Visa
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Once you’ve been accepted to Peninsula College, you will be sent a document called a Form I-20. The Form I-20 is a paper record of your information in the database called SEVIS. You will need your SEVIS ID from your I-20 to make an appointment for your visa interview.
There is a fee you must pay before your visa application interview. Please refer to the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) for more information or to make the payment online.
I-901 SEVIS Fee FAQsI-901 SEVIS Fee Payment
After being accepted and recieving a receipt for payment for the I-901 fee, you can apply for a student visa. Apply for your student visa at the United States Embassy or Consulate closest to your home. Be sure to bring passport and bank statement and/or sponsorship papers.
It is important to apply early for your Student Visa. An in-person interview is required in most countries for first time student visa applicants. Study in the States provides up-to-date information for prospective students on how to study in the United States and how to maintain your visa status.
Please Note: Canadian students do not require a visa, but do have to travel with an I-20 to enter the U.S. as a student.
- Maintaining F-1 Student Visa Status
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International Programs is here to help you follow the U.S. immigration rules for F-1 students. It is your responsibility to maintain your status—contact us before making any changes to your classes, work, or personal information.
1. Enroll and Complete at Least 12 Credits Each Term
You must enroll in and complete a minimum of 12 credits every term to be considered in Active Status. At least 9 of these credits must be in in-person classes, as listed in the Class Schedule as “In Person” or “Hybrid.” All other course types are considered online.2. Limit Online Coursework
Only 3 credits (one course) of fully online classes may count toward the 12-credit full-time requirement. You must have on-campus presence each term, including in your final term.3. Maintain Good Academic Standing
You must maintain a minimum 2.0 GPA each term. If your GPA drops below 2.0, or if you are placed on Academic Deficiency or Probation, you must meet with International Programs before registering for future terms. Being on Academic Probation is grounds for terminating your I-20 status.4. Keep Your I-20 Accurate and Request Extensions Early
Your I-20 lists your program end date. If you will not finish by that date, request an extension from International Programs before it expires. Failure to extend before expiration will result in termination of your SEVIS record.5. Disciplinary Actions
If you receive any disciplinary action from Peninsula College, International Programs will review the matter. Disciplinary action is grounds for terminating your I-20 status.6. Work Only with Authorization
- On-campus: Up to 20 hours per week during the term; full-time during official breaks.
- Off-campus (CPT, OPT, STEM OPT): Requires authorization before you begin. Never work without written approval.
7. Keep Your Information Current
Report a change of U.S. address to International Programs within 10 days. Also update us promptly if your phone number, legal name, or academic major changes.8. Travel and Re-entry
Maintain a passport valid at least six months into the future. Get a travel signature on page 2 of your I-20 before leaving the U.S. (valid for up to 12 months while enrolled).9. Program Changes or Transfers
To start a new program at Peninsula College, request a Change of Education Level I-20 before completing your current one or during your 60-day grace period. If transferring to another U.S. school, coordinate a SEVIS transfer with International Programs.10. Grace Periods
- Program completion or OPT end date: You have 60 days to depart, transfer, or start a new program.
- Authorized withdrawal: You have 15 days to depart.
- Employment/OPT
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On-Campus Employment
F-1 students who are in-status and are not on academic probation are allowed to work on campus.
- Students may work up to 19.5 hours per week when classes are in session and up to 40 hours a week during academic breaks and vacation quarters.
- New students may receive work authorization after registration and tuition is paid in full.
- If you are offered a job on campus, visit the International Programs Office to verify your eligibility and get assistance with preparing your SSN application packet. Visit the Social Security office to get a Social Security number (information available at International Programs).
- Complete an employment packet at Human Resources Office in the Faculty/Administration Building (Building C).
Off–Campus Employment
- Employment off-campus is not permitted unless approved by USCIS under very limited circumstances.
Optional Practical Training (OPT)
- Optional Practical Training (OPT) is paid a work experience directly related to the student’s field of study approved by USCIS. F-1 students who are in-status and have completed a degree or certificate program are eligible to apply for OPT. Schedule an appointment with the International Programs Office to apply up to 60 days before your end of program date.
- Twelve months of OPT can be granted after completing a degree or a certificate.
- Travel for F-1 Students
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Whether you’re exploring the U.S. during breaks or traveling home to visit family, it’s important to follow the rules for travel as an F-1 student to keep your visa status active.
Traveling Within the United States: You are free to travel anywhere within the U.S. during your studies. We recommend carrying:
- Your Passport
- Your I-20
- Your Student ID
- Proof of Enrollment (such as your current class schedule or enrollment verification)
These documents may be needed if you encounter immigration checkpoints (common near borders and certain transportation hubs).
Traveling Outside the United States: If you plan to leave the U.S. and return to continue your studies, you must have:
- Valid Passport: Must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned return date.
- Valid F-1 Visa: If your visa has expired, you must renew it before re-entering.
- Signed I-20 Form: Page two of your I-20 must have a valid travel signature from International Programs. This signature is good for one year (six months if you are on OPT).
Proof of Enrollment and Financial Support—carry your class schedule, transcript, and bank statement or financial guarantee.
Before you go:
- Request a travel signature from International Programs at least two weeks before departure.
- Check entry requirements for your destination, including transit countries.
- If your visa is expired, make an appointment at a U.S. embassy/consulate in your home country for renewal.
Special Notes for Students on OPT:
- Your I-20 travel signature is valid for only six months.
- Always carry your EAD card, job offer letter, and proof of employment when re-entering the U.S.
- Travel outside the U.S. while your OPT application is pending is not recommended.
- Frequently Asked Questions
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Admissions
- When can I start school? You may start in any of our four quarters: Fall, Winter, Spring, or Summer. See our current program dates for each quarter’s start dates.
Immigration
- How do I get my student visa? After you are accepted to PC, you will receive an immigration document (I-20) which you will need to apply for your visa. You must pay the SEVIS fee and apply for your F-1 student visa at a US Embassy or Consulate in your home country.
- Can I transfer from another school in the United States? If you are currently in the U.S. and studying on an F-1 visa, in good status, you can transfer to Peninsula College. First you must apply to PC. After you have been accepted to PC, you will request your current school to release your SEVIS record to Peninsula College. After the SEVIS record is transferred, PC will issue a new I-20.
Arrivals & Airport Pick-Up
- What airport should I fly in to? Seattle Tacoma (SeaTac) International Airport; Airport code: SEA
- When should I arrive? You should plan to arrive on the scheduled airport pick-up day, between 10:00 am–2:00 pm if you would like to be picked up at Seattle Tacoma airport.
Orientation
- Do I have to attend orientation? Yes, orientation is mandatory, even for transfer students. You will learn important information about Peninsula College, meet your classmates, and complete testing and advising into your classes.
Testing
- Do I need to take the TOEFL or IELTS test? There is no English proficiency requirement. You will take an English placement test when you arrive for orientation and will be placed into the appropriate Intensive English as a Second Language level.
- What TOEFL or IELTS test score do I need to place into college level classes? A complete list of TOEFL and IELTS test scores in order to place into college level classes can be found in the Application Requirements sections.
- What placement tests will I take? If you are a college level student, you will take an assessment English and Math tests. If you are an ELA (English Language Acquisition) student, you will take the ELA assessment test.
Housing
- When will I find out about my homestay host? Homestay placements are made two–three weeks before your arrival date. The host profiles are then emailed to your agent for students who have received their visa, submitted copy of their flight tickets, and paid the homestay placement fee.
- Can I pick my homestay? No. However, you may make a request for a specific host and we will make every effort to accommodate your request but there is no guarantee space will be available with the requested hosts.
- How are homestay placements made? Placements are made by our homestay coordinator based on the information you provided on the application form, student needs, and homestay availability. Our homestay coordinator takes time and careful thought into matching you into a homestay family whose interests most closely match your own. For this reason, we ask you to please complete all the homestay questions in our application.
- When can I move into my homestay? You can usually move in with your homestay hosts about one week before the quarter starts, during orientation.
- How long can I stay in homestay? We recommend you stay in your homestay at least one quarter, but most students stay longer. If you are under 18 you are required stay in homestay.
- Can I move into an apartment? Yes, but you must be over the age of 18.
Advising
- When will I select my classes? You will meet with your academic advisor or ELA (English Language Acquisition) coordinator after your placement testing is completed to select the appropriate classes for your level. After the quarter has started, you will meet with your academic advisor to create an academic plan.
- Can I change my major after I arrive at Peninsula College? Yes, you can meet with your Academic Advisor to make changes to your major and discuss any changes that need to be made to your academic plan and your I-20.
Health Insurance
Rates are adjusted August 1- Is health insurance mandatory? Yes, you are required to have health insurance per your I-20. You will be automatically enrolled in LewerMark Student Health Insurance each quarter and charged the current rate when you register and pay for classes. Health insurance is due at the same time as tuition and fees.
- Can I bring my own health insurance? If you have your own insurance, please bring proof of coverage with explanation of benefits and coverage to the international office upon arrival and the health insurance charge will be removed from your record. Your health insurance must be valid in the US and equivalent or better than the insurance provided through the college.
- How do I see a doctor? If you are sick or injured and your life is in danger, please go to the hospital emergency room. Otherwise, please go to Clinicare for same day service. Clinicare will not bill insurances but they will give an insurance form to submit to your insurance to claim reimbursement. Please come to the international office for further information and for assistance in submitting claims. Clinicare will refer you to a specialist as needed.
- How do I get my insurance card? After you pay for your insurance, you may come to the international office and ask for a temporary insurance card or log in to your account on the LewerMark website and print your own insurance card.
Transcripts
- How do I get my unofficial transcripts? Contact Student Services at studentservices@pencol.edu or at (360) 417-6340.
- How do I get my official transcripts? Official transcripts can be ordered on the Peninsula College website. There is an $18 USD charge per transcript.
Official Peninsula College Transcripts
Tuition & Fees
- How do I pay tuition? Tuition and fees must be paid in full each quarter by (preferably before) the published due date. In person payments can be made in the Student Services Building by check, debit, or credit card. If you would like to pay over the phone with a credit card please call (360) 417-6340. To sign up for the payment plan which divides the quarterly payment into three payments for a fee, complete the application and submit to business office cashier in the Faculty/Administration Building. Please pay by the designated due date for each payment to avoid additional fees.
Additional Questions?
If you cannot find the answer to your question or need additional help, please contact international@pencol.edu.
- Forms & Applications
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Arrival Confirmation
Please complete the Arrival Confirmation Form with your contact information, arrival date and time, and if pickup service is needed.
I-20 Request
Please complete the I-20 Request form to request an extension, change, or re-print. Your advisor will contact you for a follow-up appointment.
OPT Application
Please complete the OPT application to apply for Optional Practical Training. Your advisor will contact you for a follow-up appointment.
Optional Practical Training Application
Homestay Departure
Students who are transferring from or into a Homestay must complete the Homestay Departure form.
Official Transcript Request
Please visit the Transcripts webpage to request your official Peninsula College transcript. There is an $18 USD charge per transcript.
Official Peninsula College Transcripts
Transfer Form
If you are transferring to Peninsula College from another school, please complete the authorization form and email it to international@pencol.edu.
- Meet the Staff
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Sophia Iliakis-Doherty
Associate Dean
sdoherty@pencol.edu
(360) 417-7989
Erin Kate Murphy
Academic Advisor for International and Veteran Students
emurphy@pencol.edu
(360) 417-6463
Bran Buboltz
International Admissions Specialist
bbuboltz@pencol.edu
(360) 417-6529
- Homestay Host Program
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Host an international student in your home as part of Peninsula College’s Homestay Program.
Homestays provide a unique opportunity for our international students to learn English, be introduced to the beauty of the Olympic Peninsula, participate in household activities, and learn life skills to become more independent.
Cultural Experience for the Family
- Similar to a foreign exchange student.
- Monthly stipend paid to hosts by the student.
- Host a student for at least a quarter (but preferably for the entire academic year).
- Partial homestay (boarding) and short stays are also an option.
A Full Homestay Includes
- Access to wholesome, nutritious food for three meals per day; preferably one meal per day prepared by the host.
- A clean, private room with a desk, a lamp, and a bed.
- Laundry facilities.
- Access to transportation to Peninsula College; preferably within 30 minutes by bus.
- Internet access.
- A supportive living environment for English language learning.
- Invitations to join in family activities.
For more information about becoming a Homestay host, please contact the Peninsula College International at (360) 417-6491 or international@pencol.edu.
- Resources for Recruitment Agents
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Peninsula College welcomes students from around the world to become part of our community.
Experience small-town American life as you explore Port Angeles and the scenic Olympic Peninsula. We are located at the foot of the Olympic Mountains, and across the water from Victoria, British Columbia, Canada. Discover one of the most beautiful college campuses in the Pacific Northwest.
Innovative. Student-Centered. World-Class Faculty.
At Peninsula College, our unique environment encourages you to explore new possibilities. The college is innovative and student-centered with excellent faculty and small classes. Our learning facilities feature striking architecture and classrooms with advanced instructional technology and equipment. We offer international learning experiences and are actively involved in our local community. What’s more, we provide many extra-curricular opportunities: championship athletic teams, student clubs and activities, and an array of cultural and fine arts events throughout the year.
Academic Programs At Peninsula College
Arts & CommunicationSkilled TradesBusiness ManagementSocial SciencesHealthcareInformation TechnologyMath & Science
Printable Materials
International Programs BookletInternational Programs PosterInternational Programs One-PagerInternational Programs Info Card International Programs How to Apply
Questions? Please Contact International Programs at:
Email: international@pencol.edu
Phone: 1 (360) 417-6491
Fax: 1 (360) 417-6482
Post/Mail:
International Programs
Peninsula College
1502 East Lauridsen Blvd.
Port Angeles, WA 98262 U.S.A.