| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Art & Humanities | |
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
East Los Angeles College (ELAC) is a public community college in Monterey Park, California. It is part of the Los Angeles Community College District (LACCD) and serves over 30,000 students annually. ELAC is known for its affordable tuition, diverse student body, and strong transfer programs to top universities like UCLA, USC, and UC Berkeley.
Founded: 1945
Type: Public Community College
Location: Monterey Park, California (Los Angeles County)
Accreditation: Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges (ACCJC)
Student Enrollment: 30,000+
Popular Programs: Business, Nursing, Engineering, Computer Science, Film & Television
Transfer Partnerships: UCLA, USC, UC Berkeley, Cal State Universities
ELAC offers Associate Degrees, Certificates, and Transfer Programs to 4-year universities.
Associate Degrees for Transfer (AD-T) – Guaranteed admission to California State University (CSU) system
Associate of Arts (AA) & Associate of Science (AS) Degrees – 2-year programs
Certificate Programs – Short-term career training in various fields
Career & Technical Education (CTE) – Programs in business, technology, healthcare, and trades
Business Administration
Computer Science & IT
Nursing & Healthcare
Engineering & Technology
Film & Television (partnership with Hollywood studios)
Automotive Technology
No SAT/ACT required – Open admission policy
Apply Online at.
English Proficiency (for International Students)
TOEFL: 45 iBT
IELTS: 5.0
Submit Transcripts & Financial Proof (for international students)
Get Student Visa (F-1) for International Students
No on-campus dorms – Students live in nearby off-campus apartments
Student clubs, sports teams, and cultural events
Metro connections – Easy access to Los Angeles city
Transfer Agreements with UC & CSU Schools (UCLA, UC Berkeley, USC)
Internship & Job Assistance through Career Services
Work-Study Programs for eligible students
Affordable tuition with financial aid options
Strong transfer programs to top universities (UCLA, UC Berkeley, etc.)
Diverse student body with international student support
Career-focused programs in business, IT, healthcare, and entertainment
1 Associate Degrees for Transfer (AD-T) (2 Years)
These degrees guarantee admission to California State University (CSU) campuses.
Business Administration (AS-T)
Computer Science (AS-T)
Economics (AA-T)
English (AA-T)
Mathematics (AS-T)
Psychology (AA-T)
Sociology (AA-T)
Political Science (AA-T)
Film, Television & Electronic Media (AS-T)
Biology (AS-T)
Best for students planning to transfer to a 4-year university.
2 Associate of Arts (AA) & Associate of Science (AS) Degrees (2 Years)
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)
Best for students who want to enter the workforce or transfer to a university.
3 Certificate Programs (1 Year or Less)
Short-term career training programs designed for immediate job placement.
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.
4 Career & Technical Education (CTE) Programs
Hands-on training for high-demand careers.
Construction Technology
Electrical Engineering Technology
Welding Technology
Computer Networking & Cybersecurity
Animation & 3D Design
Best for students looking for technical skills and hands-on learning.
Popular Transfer Majors to Universities
Many ELAC students transfer to UCLA, UC Berkeley, USC, and Cal State Universities in fields like:
Business & Economics
Computer Science & IT
Nursing & Health Sciences
Engineering
Film & Television Production
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
|
Business Administration (AS-T) |
2 Years |
$9,000 - $10,000 (for international students) |
|
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 the Associate Degree for Transfer (AD-T) at ELAC, students can transfer to a 4-year university to complete their bachelor's degree (2 more years).
Since ELAC does not offer master’s programs, students can follow this pathway:
Study Level |
Institution |
Duration |
Estimated Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Associate Degree |
East Los Angeles College (ELAC) |
2 Years |
$9,000 - $10,000 (for international students) |
|
Bachelor’s Degree |
Transfer to CSU, UC, or Private University |
2 Years |
$17,000 - $50,000 |
|
Master’s Degree |
Graduate School (CSU, UC, or Private University) |
1-2 Years |
$25,000 - $60,000 |
Total Estimated Time to a Master's Degree: 5-6 years
Total Cost (Approx.): $50,000 - $120,000+
Starting at ELAC is an affordable option to begin higher education before transferring to a university for advanced degrees.
Affordable Tuition – Lower tuition fees compared to universities.
Pathway to Top Universities – Transfer agreements with UCLA, UC Berkeley, USC, and CSU campuses.
Diverse Student Community – Over 30,000 students, including many international students.
Flexible Programs – Associate Degrees, Certificate Programs, and Transfer Pathways.
Los Angeles Location – Close to Hollywood, tech companies, and career opportunities.
Work Opportunities – On-campus jobs and Optional Practical Training (OPT) after graduation.
These programs allow students to complete their first 2 years at ELAC and then transfer to a California State University (CSU) or University of California (UC) campus for the final 2 years of their bachelor’s degree.
Popular Associate Degrees for Transfer:
Business Administration (AS-T)
Computer Science (AS-T)
Psychology (AA-T)
Engineering (AS-T)
Film & Television (AS-T)
Mathematics (AS-T)
After completing these programs, students can transfer to UCLA, UC Berkeley, or other universities.
Nursing (AS)
Automotive Technology (AS)
Accounting (AS)
Real Estate (AA)
Child Development (AA)
Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Certificate
Graphic Design Certificate
Web Development Certificate
Medical Billing & Coding Certificate
Best for students who want quick job-ready skills.
ELAC offers:
Associate Degrees for Transfer (AD-T) – Transfer pathway to UCLA, UC Berkeley, CSU, and USC.
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: N/A
No application fee is required!
International students must provide:
High School Transcripts (translated into English)
English Proficiency Test Scores (any one of the following):
TOEFL iBT: Minimum 45
IELTS: Minimum 5.0
Duolingo English Test: Minimum 75
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:
East Los Angeles College – International Student Office
1301 Avenida Cesar Chavez, Monterey Park, CA 91754, USA
Once your application is approved (2-4 weeks processing time), ELAC 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 ELAC
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: Los Angeles International Airport (LAX).
Secure Housing – Find off-campus housing near ELAC.
Attend Mandatory International Student Orientation – Get familiar with ELAC services and student life.
Intake Term |
Recommended Application Deadline |
Classes Start |
|---|---|---|
|
Fall Intake (Main Intake) |
May 1 |
Late August |
|
Spring Intake |
October 1 |
Late January |
|
Summer Intake (Limited Courses) |
March 1 |
June |
Tip: Apply at least 3-6 months before your intended start date to allow enough time for visa processing and travel arrangements.
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 45
IELTS: Minimum 5.0
Duolingo English Test: Minimum 75
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 45, IELTS 5.0, Duolingo 75)
Financial Proof
Minimum 2.0 GPA at the current institution
F-1 Transfer Form (to transfer SEVIS record to ELAC)
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? |
|---|---|---|---|
|
ELAC Foundation Scholarships |
Enrolled ELAC students with good academic standing |
$500 - $2,000 |
Yes |
|
ELAC President’s Honor Scholarship |
Minimum GPA 3.5+ & active in campus activities |
$1,000 - $2,500 |
Yes |
|
ELAC International Student Scholarship |
For F-1 visa students with a minimum GPA of 3.0 |
$500 - $1,500 |
Yes |
|
LACCD (Los Angeles Community College District) Foundation Scholarships |
Open to ELAC students with financial need & academic merit |
$500 - $3,000 |
Yes |
|
Latino & Hispanic Student Scholarship |
Latino/Hispanic students with strong academic performance |
$500 - $1,500 |
Yes |
|
STEM Scholarship |
Students majoring in Science, Technology, Engineering, or Math |
$1,000 - $3,000 |
Yes |
|
Business & Entrepreneurship Scholarship |
Business majors with leadership skills |
$500 - $2,000 |
Yes |
|
California College Promise Grant (CCPG) |
Available for California residents (not international students) |
Covers tuition fees |
No |
Facility |
Description |
|---|---|
|
Library & Study Areas |
Fully equipped library, study lounges, and computer labs |
|
Fitness Center & Gym |
Modern gym and wellness programs for students |
|
Dining Services |
Cafeteria and local restaurants nearby |
|
Sports & Recreation |
Basketball, soccer, swimming, 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 ELAC (Monterey Park, Alhambra) |
$500 - $900 |
$6,000 - $10,800 |
|
Single Apartment (1-bedroom) |
Monterey Park / East LA |
$900 - $1,500 |
$10,800 - $18,000 |
|
Homestay (with meals included) |
Various locations |
$700 - $1,200 |
$8,400 - $14,400 |
|
Student Housing (Private Rentals) |
Downtown LA |
$1,200 - $2,000 |
$14,400 - $24,000 |
Most students choose shared apartments or homestay options to reduce living costs.
ELAC is committed to student success through various academic 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 UCLA, UC Berkeley, USC, and CSU schools.
Counseling Services – Academic, career, and personal counseling available.
ELAC 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.
Latino Student Union – Supports Latinx students and cultural events.
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!
ELAC has an active sports and recreation program. Students can participate in:
Varsity Sports Teams – Basketball, soccer, football, swimming, and more (ELAC Huskies – CCCAA league).
Intramural Sports – Fun, 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!
ELAC 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 – ELAC’s film and theater departments showcase student work.
Career & University Transfer Fairs – Connect with employers and universities.
Located in Monterey Park, near Downtown Los Angeles, ELAC students have access to one of the most exciting cities in the world.
Explore Los Angeles – Hollywood, beaches, museums, and theme parks.
Food & Dining – Enjoy diverse cuisine from all over the world, especially in Monterey Park (famous for its Asian food!).
Nightlife & Entertainment – Concerts, sports games, and comedy clubs in LA.
Networking Opportunities – Meet professionals in industries like film, tech, and business.
Students can take public transportation (buses & Metro) to explore LA!
International students at ELAC can take advantage of:
On-Campus Jobs – Part-time jobs available in the library, cafeteria, or student services.
Internships & CPT (Curricular Practical Training) – Work experience 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).
ELAC has a dedicated Career & Job Services Center to help 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.
ELAC 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, Cedars-Sinai, UCLA Health.
Technology & IT – Opportunities at Google, Apple, Microsoft, Amazon.
Film & Media – Internships in Hollywood with Warner Bros., Netflix, Disney, and 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 ELAC is a community college, many students transfer to universities for a bachelor’s degree before getting high-paying jobs.
Top Universities ELAC Students Transfer To:
University of California (UC) Schools – UCLA, UC Berkeley, UC Irvine, UC San Diego
California State Universities (CSU) – Cal State LA, CSU Long Beach, CSU Northridge
Private Universities – USC, Pepperdine University, Loyola Marymount University
Students who transfer to universities like UCLA or UC Berkeley 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 ELAC.
ELAC 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 (UCLA, UC Berkeley, etc.).
OPT & CPT allow international students to work in the U.S. during and after studies.
East Los Angeles College (ELAC) has an open admissions policy, meaning the acceptance rate is nearly 100%.
Since ELAC 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 UCLA, UC Berkeley, USC, and Cal State Universities.
High School Diploma (or equivalent)
Minimum English Proficiency:
TOEFL iBT: 45+
IELTS: 5.0+
Duolingo: 75+
Financial Proof (Bank statement showing at least $24,000 for tuition & living expenses)
Valid Passport Copy
Since ELAC is a community college, students can complete their first 2 years at ELAC 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 UCLA, UC Berkeley, USC, and CSU schools.
East Los Angeles College (ELAC) is located in Monterey Park, California, within Los Angeles County. The campus is just 8 miles (13 km) east of Downtown Los Angeles, making it easily accessible for students.
East Los Angeles College (ELAC)
1301 Avenida Cesar Chavez, Monterey Park, CA 91754, USA
