Congratulations on your acceptance to RCC!
Before you start on this exciting experience, it is very important that you make some plans first. Please be sure to follow these steps to ensure an easier transition to your new life here at RCC and in the U.S.!
Apply for your F1 student visa
If your primary reason for coming to the U.S. is to study, it is recommended that you apply for an F-1 student visa. Please visit our Applying for an F1 Visa page for more information.
Start researching your housing options
One of the most important things to take care of prior to your arrival at Rockland Community College is where you are going to live. RCC is excited to partner with St. Thomas Aquinas College with housing our students. Please visit our housing page for more information.
Visit your doctor
All RCC students must submit proof of appropriate Measles, Mumps and Rubella immunizations within 30 days of the start of their first semester. If you are not able to attain these prior to arrival in the U.S., there are options to receive them when here, but it may cost money. Any vaccination record submitted to the college must be in English. Please see our immunization page for more information.
Purchase health insurance
It is highly encouraged that international students purchase health insurance.
Accidents and illnesses happen, and many healthcare providers will not see a patient without proof of medical insurance coverage.
We suggest one of the following plans:
Plan your trip
Purchase Your Plane Ticket
Students cannot arrive in the U.S. more than 30 days before the program start date listed on your I-20. We highly suggest that you do not purchase any travel tickets until your have been approved for your F-1 visa.
There are three international airports near Rockland Community College:
- Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR): approximately 45 miles from campus
- John F. Kennedy Airport (JFK): approximately 50 miles from campus
- LaGuardia Airport (LGA): approximately 40 miles from campus (Canada and Caribbean)
Driving from each of these airports averages about 1 hour, but may be more depending on traffic.
Arrange Airport Transportation
The best way to get from the airports to campus or a local hotel is by airport taxi or a car service. Taxis can range from $120 up to over $200 with tax, tip and tolls included.
Air Brook Limo offers discounted rates to RCC students. You can make a reservation by calling +1-800-800-1990 and mentioning Rockland Community College.
Transportation from JFK or LaGuardia airport will be higher in cost than transport from Newark airport.
Reserve a Local Hotel Room
Howard Johnson Inn
17 North Airmont Road, Suffern, NY (3 miles from RCC)
+1-845-368-1900
*Mention RCC for discounted rate
Crowne Plaza Suffern-Mahwah
3 Executive Blvd, Suffern, NY (3 miles from RCC)
+1-845-357-4800
Sonesta Simply Suites Nanuet
20 Overlook Blvd, Nanuet, NY (5 miles from RCC)
+1-845-371-4445
Prepare your finances
As you start to prepare yourselves for arriving to Rockland Community College, it is important to plan how you will pay your first semester tuition and living expenses.
Tuition is due by no later than the first day of classes.
Be sure to check out Tuition and Fees Information page for more information about your payment options and how much you should prepare to pay. Students have the option to pay the full amount or to sign up for a monthly payment plan. All students are charged per semester.
The estimated total printed on your SEVIS I-20 should be the amount you are prepared to spend on tuition and living expenses per academic year.
Take the English and Math Placement Exam
All new students must be placed at the appropriate levels for both Math and English before being able to register for classes at RCC to ensure that they start at the most appropriate coursework level for their academic success.
Students may be placed for English based on their English proficiency test, i.e. TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo if required for admission. Check our English language requirements under our How to Apply page for more information.
Students may also be waived from math placement based on their math courses in high school. Course descriptions in English will be required to be considered for this.
Students who cannot meet these options or other possible waivers will be required to take the Accuplacer placement exam. Please visit the Placement and Assessment page for more information about testing times, possible test exemptions, and practice resources. Tests are currently being offered virtually.
Start your journey as an RCC Student!
You are going to learn and experience a lot of new and exciting things here at RCC. Be sure to make the most of your time here! Participate in on-campus and off-campus activities, join a club, get an on-campus job, become a volunteer, and explore New York City and the surrounding area. Just be sure to keep attending classes!
Remember, International Student Services is here to help you with any questions you may have. We look forward to welcoming you to RCC!