International Admission

Oxy students in front of Disney Hall in downtown LA

Looking to study in the United States? Occidental welcomes your global perspective.

At Occidental, international students bring invaluable perspectives to our classrooms, campus conversations, and community life. Whether you're just starting to explore U.S. colleges or you're ready to apply, you'll find a globally minded education in the heart of Los Angeles. Our admission process is personal, supportive, and designed to help you put your best self forward. Start here to learn how to apply, what documents you'll need, and what makes the international student experience at Occidental so distinctive.

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34
countries represented in our student body
5%
international student body at Occidental

How to Apply as an International Student

International students can apply to Occidental as either first-year or transfer applicants, depending on your academic history. While the core application steps are similar, required materials may vary slightly based on which path you take.

Explore All International Application Requirements >

 

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International Application Deadlines

First-Year Application Deadlines

App Round Admission Deadline Financial Aid Deadline Decision Release
Early Decision I November 15 November 15 By December 15
Early Decision II January 10 January 10 By February 20
Regular Decision January 10 January 10 By April 1

 

Transfer Application Deadlines

App Round | Application Closes
Fall |     March 1
Completed applications received by March 1 will be considered on a rolling basis after April 15. Applications received after March 1 will be considered on a rolling basis after May 1.

Additional Occidental Applications

First-year applicants >

Applying straight from high school? This is your next step.
Transfer applicants >

Completed college coursework after high school? Start here.
Undocumented applicants >

Find tips and requirements just for undocumented or DACA students.
Aung Htet '28 (with friends)

Student Voices: My First Year at Oxy

Aung, a student from Myanmar, shares how he navigated culture shock, academic pressure, and job rejections—and found confidence, connection, and community at Occidental.

READ AUNG'S STORY >

Your International Student Experience

As an international student at Occidental, you’ll be fully supported as you navigate college life in a new country. From housing and academic support to mentorship and career guidance, we offer resources designed to help you feel at home and thrive—inside and outside the classroom.

students hanging out on chairs in their dorm room, talking
Student Housing

Occidental’s residential communities are a central part of campus life, offering a welcoming space to share perspectives and build lasting connections.
Students asking a professor questions
Student Success Services

Occidental offers a wide range of academic and personal support services—from writing and subject tutoring to advising, peer mentorship, and wellness resources—all designed to help you succeed.
Students bike along the beach in Santa Monica.
Living in Los Angeles

Los Angeles is an incredible place to explore. As an Occidental student, you’ll also benefit from cultural, academic, and career connections in one of the most dynamic cities in the world.

Explore International Scholarships at Occidental

All international applicants are automatically considered for merit-based scholarships, which recognize academic and personal achievement. Need-based financial aid is extremely limited, and only awarded to a small number of international students each year. International students with financial need must submit the required financial aid forms to be considered.

Learn more about scholarships for international applicants >

International Admission FAQs

No. Occidental College does not charge an application fee. We believe that cost should not be a barrier to opportunity, and we want every student to feel welcome and encouraged to apply—no fee, no waiver needed.

Occidental requires a minimum score of 100 on the TOEFL iBT, 7.0 on the IELTS, or 130 on the Duolingo English Test (DET). See full English language requirements.

International students will need an F-1 student visa to study full time in the United States. This visa allows you to enroll as a full-time student and work in an on-campus job.


Once you’re admitted and submit your enrollment deposit, Occidental will provide the required paperwork to begin your F-1 visa application. These documents are typically sent in mid-May, giving you plenty of time to schedule your visa appointment.

Yes, international students are automatically considered for merit-based scholarships, which are awarded based on academic achievement, extracurricular involvement, and personal accomplishments.


Need-based financial aid for international students is very limited and highly competitive. To be considered, you must submit the required financial aid forms by the admission deadline. Each year, Occidental typically offers need-based aid to only a small number of international applicants.

Contact Admission & Aid
Collins House

1600 Campus Road
Los Angeles, CA 90041

Phone: (323) 259-2700
admission@oxy.edu

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