General Information
- About SUNY Ulster
- Who Should Apply
- Academic Ability
- Transfer of Credit
- English Language Proficiency/STEP Eiken
- Employment
- Expenses
Ulster County Community College is a unit of the State University of New York (SUNY), the nation's largest university system. As a community college, Ulster offers two-year associate degree programs in a variety of academic areas. The associate degree generally comprises the first two years of the standard four-year baccalaureate degree. Ulster does not offer upper-division or graduate work.
SUNY Ulster is located in the Hudson Valley Region, a rural area of upstate New York; ninety miles north of New York city and sixty miles south of Albany, New York's capital city. The majority of Ulster's students are from the Hudson Valley Region and its educational programs are primarily directed toward this population. Ulster does not have residential facilities, but students who are interested in obtaining housing in the local communities can do so on their own.
The SUNY Ulster Student Government Organization (SGO) sponsors the International Students Club, which provides international and American students a social outlet to help foster cultural understanding and awareness among our diverse student body. Meeting schedules are available in most Student Services Offices.
New York State has a temperate climate with an extreme range of temperatures. There are four seasons: Fall (September-December), Winter (January-March). Spring (April-June), Summer (June-August). The winters are very cold and summers hot, with mild to cool weather in spring and fall. Students therefore need appropriate clothing for both warm and cold weather.
All international students are advised to carefully consider the appropriateness of Ulster for them. If you have any questions or concerns about Ulster's appropriateness for you, please call or write the Office of Admissions, we will be more than happy to assist you.
Who Should Apply As An International Student?The International Student application should be used by non-United States citizens who have attended secondary school outside the United States.
International students currently attending a college or university in this country, who attended secondary school in another country, should also use the International Student application.
For Applicants with Permanent Resident Status (Green Card), if you were not born in the United States you must show proof of citizenship or permanent resident status. For more information, click here.
Academic AbilitySUNY Ulster will admit only those students who have completed at least the equivalent of 12 years of elementary and secondary education and have successfully passed all required examinations.
Normally, candidates must be qualified for university admission in their own county.
Transfer of CreditA student who has completed courses at other recognized institutions of higher learning may be able to apply for credit for such courses toward degree requirements at State University campuses.
SUNY Ulster will evaluate the official records of studies previously completed. In some cases, a decision as to the credit that can be allowed will be deferred until the student arrives on campus and can discuss with appropriate officials the nature and extent of previous studies.
English Language Proficiency/STEP EikenEnglish is the language of instruction at SUNY Ulster. International students may not always be as fluent in the language as American students, but they must be able to read, write, speak and understand English well enough to participate in and benefit from an academic program. All examinations and papers must be written in English.
For students from Japan only, SUNY Ulster will use the STEP Pre-First Grade Level as the equivalent of ToEFL 500 as a part of the entry process for international students at Ulster County Community College. STEP will provide official verification of the student's test scores. Additionally, all students admitted SUNY Ulster will take both an English and Mathematics placement exam, administered by the college, to determine appropriate course placement.
Under no circumstances can students earn all or a major portion of the funds required to finance their studies through part-time employment.
International students may work up to 20 hours per week on campus when school is in session, and during holidays and recesses.
ExpensesThe cost of an education in the United States is high. It is of the utmost importance that students be fully aware of the major expenses that they will incur.
Students must be certain before they leave their country that they have sufficient funds to meet their educational costs during they years they plan to study in the United States. The United States Consul will not issue a visa to prospective students unless they have provided evidence that they have sufficient funds to cover their entire period of study. Please note that Financial assistance is not available for international students.
The cost of tuition, fees and books for one year at SUNY Ulster is approximately $6,494. An additional $6,000 will be needed for room and board, which is not provided by the College. These figures are only approximations, actual costs are likely to be higher.
Also, please note that all students must provide their own transportation to and from the campus. The College is served by limited bus service. International students who are interested in the bus service are advised to check with the College Activities Office after their arrival for more information.
International students who are planning to stay with family or friends in the area and will be provided with free transportation, room, or board should have the appropriate family member or friend submit a notarized affidavit indicating that they are providing these services for the duration of the student's stay.
Medical services in the United States are not nationalized and costs are high. All applicants are advised to have appropriate health and accident insurance to cover unforeseen emergencies caused by sickness or accident.
