| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
Diablo Valley College (DVC) is a public community college located in Pleasant Hill, California (near San Francisco). It is part of the Contra Costa Community College District and is known for its high transfer rates to top universities like UC Berkeley, UCLA, UC Davis, and San Francisco State University (SFSU).
Founded: 1949
Type: Public Community College
Location: Pleasant Hill, California
Student Enrollment: 19,000+
Accreditation: Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges (ACCJC)
Transfer Rate: One of the highest transfer rates to UC and CSU universities
Popular Programs: Business, Computer Science, Engineering, Nursing, Film & Media
DVC offers Associate Degrees, Certificate Programs, and Transfer Pathways to 4-year universities.
These degrees allow students to complete the first 2 years of a bachelor's degree before transferring to UC or CSU schools.
Popular AD-T Programs:
Business Administration (AS-T)
Computer Science (AS-T)
Psychology (AA-T)
Engineering (AS-T)
Mathematics (AS-T)
Political Science (AA-T)
DVC has guaranteed transfer agreements with UC and CSU schools!
Nursing (AS)
Digital Marketing (AA)
Accounting (AS)
Film & Media Arts (AA)
Environmental Science (AS)
Graphic Design
Data Analytics
Web Development
Automotive Technology
Culinary Arts
Best for students who want quick job-ready skills.
DVC has rolling admissions, so students can apply year-round.
1 Choose a Program (Associate Degree or Certificate)
2 Apply Online at.
3 Submit Required Documents:
High school transcripts (translated into English)
English Proficiency Test:
TOEFL iBT: 61+
IELTS: 5.5+
Duolingo English Test: 90+
Financial Proof ($24,000+ in bank statement)
Copy of Passport
4 Receive Acceptance Letter & Form I-20 (for F-1 student visa application)
5 Apply for an F-1 Student Visa at the U.S. Embassy
6 Plan Travel & Attend Orientation
No SAT/ACT required!
DVC does not have on-campus housing, but students can live in:
Homestay with a local family ($800 - $1,200/month)
Shared apartments near campus ($600 - $1,000/month per student)
Private studio apartments ($1,200 - $2,000/month)
Most students live in Pleasant Hill, Walnut Creek, or Concord.
Internships & Work-Study Programs – Gain experience while studying.
CPT & OPT for International Students – Work legally in the U.S. during and after studies.
High Transfer Success – DVC has a strong pathway to UC Berkeley, UCLA, and other top schools.
DVC is one of the top community colleges for UC transfers!
These degrees guarantee admission to California State University (CSU) campuses and provide priority admission to University of California (UC) schools like UC Berkeley, UCLA, and UC Davis.
Popular Associate Degrees for Transfer (AD-T):
Business Administration (AS-T)
Computer Science (AS-T)
Economics (AA-T)
Psychology (AA-T)
Sociology (AA-T)
Mathematics (AS-T)
Political Science (AA-T)
Film, Television & Electronic Media (AS-T)
Biology (AS-T)
English (AA-T)
Best for students planning to transfer to a 4-year university.
These degrees help students enter the workforce or transfer to a university.
Popular AA & AS Degrees:
Accounting (AS)
Administration of Justice (AA)
Automotive Technology (AS)
Child Development (AA)
Culinary Arts (AS)
Electrical Engineering Technology (AS)
Graphic Design & Digital Media (AA)
Nursing (AS)
Real Estate (AA)
Theater Arts (AA)
These programs provide specialized skills for immediate job placement.
Popular Certificate Programs:
Accounting Clerk Certificate
Automotive Technology Certificate
Business Office Assistant Certificate
CNC Machine Operator Certificate
Dental Assistant Certificate
Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Certificate
Graphic Design Certificate
Medical Billing & Coding Certificate
Paralegal Studies Certificate
Web Development Certificate
Best for students who want quick job-ready skills.
These programs provide practical experience in high-demand fields.
Popular CTE Programs:
Construction Technology
Electrical Engineering Technology
Welding Technology
Computer Networking & Cybersecurity
Animation & 3D Design
Best for students looking for hands-on learning & technical careers.
Many DVC students transfer to UC Berkeley, UCLA, USC, and California State Universities (CSU) in fields such as:
Business & Economics
Computer Science & IT
Nursing & Health Sciences
Engineering
Film & Television Production
These programs guarantee priority admission to CSU campuses and offer transfer opportunities to University of California (UC) schools.
Program Name |
Duration (at DVC) |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
|
Business Administration (AS-T) |
2 Years |
$9,000 - $10,000 |
|
Computer Science (AS-T) |
2 Years |
$9,000 - $10,000 |
|
Economics (AA-T) |
2 Years |
$9,000 - $10,000 |
|
Psychology (AA-T) |
2 Years |
$9,000 - $10,000 |
|
Sociology (AA-T) |
2 Years |
$9,000 - $10,000 |
|
Mathematics (AS-T) |
2 Years |
$9,000 - $10,000 |
|
Political Science (AA-T) |
2 Years |
$9,000 - $10,000 |
|
Film, Television & Electronic Media (AS-T) |
2 Years |
$9,000 - $10,000 |
|
Biology (AS-T) |
2 Years |
$9,000 - $10,000 |
|
English (AA-T) |
2 Years |
$9,000 - $10,000 |
After completing an AD-T at DVC, students can transfer to a 4-year university for the final 2 years of a bachelor's degree.
Affordable Tuition – Lower tuition compared to universities.
Pathway to Top Universities – Transfer agreements with UC Berkeley, UCLA, UC Davis, and CSU campuses.
Diverse Student Community – Over 19,000 students, including many international students.
Flexible Programs – Associate Degrees, Certificate Programs, and University Transfer Pathways.
Great Location – Close to San Francisco & Silicon Valley, providing career opportunities.
Work Opportunities – On-campus jobs and Optional Practical Training (OPT) after graduation.
These degrees allow students to complete their first 2 years at DVC and then transfer to a University of California (UC) or California State University (CSU) campus to complete their bachelor’s degree.
Popular Associate Degrees for Transfer (AD-T):
Business Administration (AS-T)
Computer Science (AS-T)
Psychology (AA-T)
Engineering (AS-T)
Mathematics (AS-T)
Political Science (AA-T)
DVC has guaranteed transfer agreements with UC and CSU schools!
These degrees help students enter the workforce or transfer to a university.
Popular AA & AS Degrees:
Accounting (AS)
Automotive Technology (AS)
Child Development (AA)
Culinary Arts (AS)
Nursing (AS)
Theater Arts (AA)
These programs provide specialized skills for job placement.
Popular Certificate Programs:
Accounting Clerk Certificate
Automotive Technology Certificate
Business Office Assistant Certificate
Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Certificate
Graphic Design Certificate
Medical Billing & Coding Certificate
Best for students who want quick job-ready skills.
DVC offers:
Associate Degrees for Transfer (AD-T) – Pathway to UC Berkeley, UCLA, CSU schools.
Associate of Arts (AA) & Associate of Science (AS) Degrees – 2-year career-focused degrees.
Certificate Programs – 1-year or less for job-ready skills.
Apply Online at: DVC International Admissions Portal
No application fee is required!
International students must provide:
High School Transcripts (translated into English)
English Proficiency Test (any one of the following):
TOEFL iBT: Minimum 61
IELTS: Minimum 5.5
Duolingo English Test: Minimum 90
ELS Level 109 Completion
Financial Proof (Bank statement showing at least $24,000 USD for tuition & living expenses)
Copy of Passport
F-1 Transfer Form (if transferring from another U.S. institution)
Where to Submit Documents?
Documents can be uploaded online, emailed to [email protected], or mailed to:
Diablo Valley College – International Student Office
321 Golf Club Road, Pleasant Hill, CA 94523, USA
Once your application is approved (2-4 weeks processing time), DVC will issue a Form I-20 (needed for the F-1 student visa).
Acceptance Letter will be sent via email.
Check for available scholarships and financial aid options!
Pay the SEVIS I-901 Fee ($350 USD) at.
Schedule a Visa Interview at the nearest U.S. Embassy/Consulate.
Attend the visa interview with:
Form I-20
Admission Letter from DVC
Financial Proof
Passport & Visa Application Form (DS-160)
Tip: Be confident and explain your study plans clearly during the visa interview!
Book Your Flight – Nearest airport: San Francisco International Airport (SFO).
Secure Housing – Find off-campus housing near DVC.
Attend Mandatory International Student Orientation – Get familiar with DVC services and student life.
Intake Term |
Recommended Application Deadline |
Classes Start |
|---|---|---|
|
Fall Intake (Main Intake) |
June 1 |
Late August |
|
Spring Intake |
November 1 |
Late January |
|
Summer Intake (Limited Courses) |
April 1 |
June |
Tip: Apply at least 3-6 months before your intended start date to allow enough time for visa processing.
High School Diploma or Equivalent (12th grade completion)
Minimum GPA: No strict requirement, but a GPA of 2.0+ (on a 4.0 scale) is preferred
English Proficiency Test (any one of the following):
TOEFL iBT: Minimum 61
IELTS: Minimum 5.5
Duolingo English Test: Minimum 90
ELS Level 109 Completion
Financial Proof (Bank statement showing at least $24,000 USD to cover tuition & living expenses)
Copy of Passport
No SAT/ACT required!
High School Diploma or Equivalent
Basic English Proficiency (TOEFL 61, IELTS 5.5, Duolingo 90)
Financial Proof
Minimum 2.0 GPA at the current institution
F-1 Transfer Form (to transfer SEVIS record to DVC)
English Proficiency (waived if completed English courses in the U.S.)
Official Transcripts from the previous U.S. institution
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Award Amount (USD) |
Renewable? |
|---|---|---|---|
|
DVC International Student Scholarship |
F-1 visa students with a minimum 3.0 GPA |
$500 - $2,000 |
Yes |
|
DVC Foundation Scholarships |
Based on academic achievement & financial need |
$500 - $3,000 |
Yes |
|
DVC Academic Merit Scholarship |
Outstanding academic performance (GPA 3.5+) |
$1,000 - $2,500 |
Yes |
|
DVC STEM Scholarship |
For students in Science, Technology, Engineering, or Math fields |
$1,000 - $3,000 |
Yes |
|
Business & Entrepreneurship Scholarship |
Business majors with leadership skills |
$500 - $2,000 |
Yes |
|
DVC Transfer Scholarship |
For students transferring to UC or CSU universities |
$1,000 - $5,000 |
No |
|
External & Private Scholarships |
Offered by outside organizations |
$500 - $5,000 |
N/A |
Facility |
Description |
|---|---|
|
Library & Study Areas |
Fully equipped library, study lounges, and computer labs |
|
Fitness Center & Gym |
Modern gym, yoga classes, and wellness programs |
|
Dining Services |
Cafeteria, coffee shops, and nearby restaurants |
|
Sports & Recreation |
Basketball, soccer, tennis, and fitness programs |
|
Student Housing Support |
Assistance in finding off-campus accommodation |
|
Student Clubs & Events |
Various cultural, academic, and career clubs |
|
Career Services |
Internship and job placement support |
|
Health & Wellness |
Medical and counseling services available |
Accommodation Type |
Location |
Estimated Cost Per Month (USD) |
Estimated Cost Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Shared Apartment (2-3 students) |
Near DVC (Pleasant Hill, Concord) |
$500 - $900 |
$6,000 - $10,800 |
|
Single Apartment (1-bedroom) |
Pleasant Hill / Walnut Creek |
$1,000 - $1,800 |
$12,000 - $21,600 |
|
Homestay (with meals included) |
Various locations |
$800 - $1,200 |
$9,600 - $14,400 |
|
Student Housing (Private Rentals) |
Downtown Walnut Creek |
$1,200 - $2,500 |
$14,400 - $30,000 |
Most students choose shared apartments or homestay options to reduce living costs.
DVC is committed to student success with various support programs:
Tutoring & Writing Centers – Free academic support for subjects like math, science, and English.
Career Services – Resume workshops, job fairs, and internship placements.
Transfer Center – Helps students transfer to UC Berkeley, UCLA, CSU, and other top universities.
Counseling Services – Academic, career, and personal counseling available.
DVC has over 50+ student clubs and organizations where students can develop leadership skills and make new friends. Some popular clubs include:
International Student Club – Connects students from different countries.
Business & Entrepreneurship Club – Helps students develop business skills.
STEM Club – Focuses on science, technology, engineering, and math activities.
Film & Media Club – Works on film projects and industry networking.
Cultural & Diversity Clubs – Clubs celebrating different ethnic and cultural backgrounds.
Community Service Organizations – Volunteer opportunities to help the local community.
Tip: Joining a club is a great way to make friends and enhance your college experience!
DVC has an active sports and recreation program. Students can participate in:
Varsity Sports Teams – Basketball, soccer, tennis, swimming, and more.
Intramural Sports – Casual sports like volleyball, badminton, and dodgeball.
Fitness Center & Gym – Free access to a modern gym for students.
Yoga & Wellness Programs – Focuses on student health and relaxation.
Even if you're not an athlete, you can join recreational sports for fun and fitness!
DVC hosts various cultural festivals, music concerts, and art exhibitions throughout the year. Some major events include:
International Student Welcome Week – Orientation and networking for international students.
Cultural Diversity Day – Celebrates different cultures with food, music, and performances.
Film Screenings & Theater Performances – DVC’s film and theater departments showcase student work.
Career & University Transfer Fairs – Connect with employers and universities.
Located in Pleasant Hill, California, DVC students enjoy a safe, suburban environment while being close to major cities like San Francisco, Oakland, and Berkeley.
Explore the Bay Area – Visit San Francisco, Golden Gate Bridge, and Silicon Valley.
Food & Dining – Enjoy diverse cuisine, from local cafes to international restaurants.
Nightlife & Entertainment – Concerts, sports games, and festivals in nearby cities.
Networking Opportunities – Meet professionals in industries like tech, finance, and business.
Public transportation (BART train & buses) makes it easy to explore the Bay Area!
International students at DVC can take advantage of:
On-Campus Jobs – Part-time jobs available in the library, cafeteria, or student services.
Internships & CPT (Curricular Practical Training) – Internship opportunities during studies.
OPT (Optional Practical Training) – Allows students to work in the U.S. for 1 year after graduation (STEM students may qualify for a 2-year extension).
DVC has a dedicated Career & Transfer Services Center that helps students find part-time jobs, internships, and full-time careers.
Resume & Cover Letter Assistance – Helps students create professional job applications.
Job Search Help – Access to Handshake, a job portal with thousands of listings.
Mock Interviews & Career Coaching – Prepare for job interviews.
Internship Programs – Gain work experience while studying.
Career Fairs & Networking Events – Meet recruiters from top companies.
Students can also apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) after graduation to work in the U.S.
DVC students can get internships in various industries through Curricular Practical Training (CPT). Some popular industries include:
Business & Finance – Internships at Bank of America, Wells Fargo, JPMorgan Chase.
Healthcare & Nursing – Internships at Kaiser Permanente, UCSF Health, Stanford Health.
Technology & IT – Opportunities at Google, Apple, Microsoft, Amazon.
Film & Media – Internships in Hollywood with Netflix, Disney, Universal Studios.
Engineering & Manufacturing – Internships at Tesla, Boeing, SpaceX.
Internships give students real-world experience before transferring to a university or entering the workforce.
Since DVC is a community college, many students transfer to universities for a bachelor’s degree before getting high-paying jobs.
Top Universities DVC Students Transfer To:
University of California (UC) Schools: UC Berkeley, UCLA, UC Davis, UC San Diego
California State Universities (CSU): San Francisco State University, Cal State East Bay, CSU Sacramento
Private Universities: USC, Pepperdine University, Santa Clara University
Students who transfer to universities like UC Berkeley or UCLA have a much higher chance of getting high-paying jobs.
Industry |
Average Starting Salary (USD per Year) |
|---|---|
|
Business & Management |
$50,000 - $80,000 |
|
Computer Science & IT |
$70,000 - $120,000 |
|
Healthcare & Nursing |
$60,000 - $90,000 |
|
Film & Media |
$45,000 - $85,000 |
|
Engineering |
$70,000 - $110,000 |
Salaries increase significantly for students who complete their bachelor’s degree after transferring from DVC.
DVC helps students find internships & part-time jobs while studying.
Career Services provide job search support, resume writing, and interview preparation.
Strong industry connections with tech, healthcare, business, and entertainment companies.
Best job opportunities come after transferring to a university (UC Berkeley, UCLA, etc.).
OPT & CPT allow international students to work in the U.S. during and after studies.
Diablo Valley College (DVC) has an open admissions policy, meaning the acceptance rate is nearly 100%.
Since DVC is a community college, it accepts all students who meet the basic admission requirements. There is no SAT/ACT requirement, making it an accessible option for both domestic and international students.
High Acceptance Rate – If you meet the eligibility requirements, you are likely to be admitted.
No Standardized Tests Required – No SAT, ACT, or GRE needed.
Rolling Admissions – You can apply at any time of the year.
Pathway to Top Universities – Easy transfer options to UC Berkeley, UCLA, USC, and Cal State Universities.
High School Diploma (or equivalent)
Minimum English Proficiency:
TOEFL iBT: 61+
IELTS: 5.5+
Duolingo: 90+
Financial Proof (Bank statement showing at least $24,000 for tuition & living expenses)
Valid Passport Copy
Since DVC is a community college, students can complete their first 2 years at DVC and transfer to a top university to complete their bachelor's degree.
100% acceptance rate – Open admission for all eligible students.
No SAT/ACT required – Simple admission process.
Affordable & Flexible – Lower tuition fees compared to universities.
Strong University Transfer Pathway – Easy transition to UC Berkeley, UCLA, USC, and CSU schools.
Diablo Valley College (DVC) – Pleasant Hill Campus
321 Golf Club Road, Pleasant Hill, CA 94523, USA
Diablo Valley College – San Ramon Campus
1690 Watermill Road, San Ramon, CA 94582, USA
The San Ramon Campus offers select courses for students in business, computer science, and general education.
San Francisco – 30 miles (45 minutes by car)
Oakland – 20 miles (30 minutes by car)
Berkeley (UC Berkeley) – 15 miles (25 minutes by car)
Silicon Valley (San Jose, Palo Alto) – 45 miles (1 hour by car)
Napa Valley (Wine Country) – 50 miles (1 hour by car)
San Francisco International Airport (SFO) – 40 miles (1 hour by car)
