| 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 | |
Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA) is one of the largest community colleges in the United States, offering affordable and high-quality education for students seeking associate degrees, certificates, and transfer programs to four-year universities.
Founded: 1965
Type: Public Community College
Location: Northern Virginia, USA (multiple campuses)
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
Student Enrollment: Over 75,000+ students (one of the largest in the U.S.)
Programs Offered: Associate degrees, certificates, workforce training
Transfer Opportunities: Many students transfer to top universities like George Mason University, Virginia Tech, and University of Virginia
NOVA has six campuses and several learning centers across Northern Virginia:
1 Alexandria Campus – Urban setting, close to Washington, D.C.
2 Annandale Campus – Largest campus, offers many degree programs.
3 Loudoun Campus – Focus on STEM & health sciences.
4 Manassas Campus – Strong business & cybersecurity programs.
5 MEC (Medical Education Campus, Springfield) – Specializes in healthcare programs.
6 Woodbridge Campus – Offers technology and trade programs.
NOVA offers 120+ programs, including associate degrees (2 years), certificates, and workforce training.
Associate Degree Programs (2 Years, Transfer to Universities)
Associate of Arts (AA) & Associate of Science (AS)
Business Administration
Computer Science
Engineering
Psychology
Communication Studies
Biology
Cybersecurity
Associate of Applied Science (AAS)
Information Technology
Nursing (RN)
Graphic Design
Criminal Justice
Automotive Technology
Certificate & Workforce Programs (Short-Term, Career-Focused)
Cloud Computing
Data Analytics
HVAC (Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning)
Paralegal Studies
Web Design & Development
NOVA has an open admissions policy, meaning any student with a high school diploma or GED can apply.
Step 1: Submit an online application via.
Step 2: Provide high school transcripts (or college transcripts if transferring).
Step 3: Submit English proficiency test scores (for international students).
Step 4: Apply for financial aid or scholarships (if eligible).
Step 5: Register for classes and attend orientation.
TOEFL iBT: 71
IELTS: 6.0
Duolingo English Test: 95
SAT (Evidence-Based Reading & Writing): 480+
(Students who completed high school in English may be exempt.)
NOVA issues the I-20 form for visa applications.
Students must show proof of financial support ($28,000+ per year).
NOVA offers financial aid, grants, and scholarships for eligible students.
NOVA Excellence Scholarship – For high-achieving students, up to $3,000.
STEM Scholarship – For students in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math.
Foundation Scholarships – Various scholarships based on merit & financial need.
Virginia Tuition Assistance Grant (VTAG) – For Virginia residents.
International students are not eligible for federal financial aid but can apply for private scholarships.
NOVA has a diverse and active student community, offering:
Clubs & Organizations – Business Club, STEM Club, Cultural Associations.
Sports & Fitness – Soccer, Basketball, Volleyball, Gym Access.
Student Events – Cultural festivals, career fairs, networking events.
Internships & Career Services – Strong employer partnerships with tech companies, government agencies, and healthcare providers.
Many NOVA students transfer to top universities in Virginia and across the U.S. through Guaranteed Admission Agreements (GAA) with:
George Mason University
University of Virginia (UVA)
Virginia Tech
James Madison University
The College of William & Mary
(By maintaining a required GPA, students are guaranteed admission to these universities!)
NOVA partners with top employers in technology, business, and healthcare, including:
Amazon
Microsoft
Inova Health System
Lockheed Martin
U.S. Government Agencies
Graduates from high-demand fields like cybersecurity, nursing, and IT have excellent job opportunities.
Associate of Arts (AA) & Associate of Science (AS) – Designed for students planning to transfer to a four-year university.
Associate of Applied Science (AAS) – Career-focused programs that prepare students for immediate employment.
Program Name |
Degree Type |
Duration |
Transfer Option |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Business Administration |
AS |
2 Years |
Yes |
|
Computer Science |
AS |
2 Years |
Yes |
|
Cybersecurity |
AAS |
2 Years |
Limited |
|
Nursing (RN Program) |
AAS |
2 Years |
No |
|
Engineering |
AS |
2 Years |
Yes |
|
Psychology |
AS |
2 Years |
Yes |
|
Biology |
AS |
2 Years |
Yes |
|
Information Technology |
AAS |
2 Years |
Limited |
|
Graphic Design |
AAS |
2 Years |
No |
|
Criminal Justice |
AS/AAS |
2 Years |
Limited |
Students in AS degree programs can transfer to top universities like George Mason University, Virginia Tech, and UVA.
NOVA offers certificate programs designed to help students gain job-ready skills in 6-12 months.
Program Name |
Certificate Type |
Duration |
|---|---|---|
|
Cloud Computing & AWS |
Career Studies Certificate |
6-12 Months |
|
Data Analytics |
Career Studies Certificate |
6-12 Months |
|
HVAC (Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning) |
Career Certificate |
12 Months |
|
Paralegal Studies |
Career Studies Certificate |
6-12 Months |
|
Medical Assisting |
Career Certificate |
6-12 Months |
|
Web Development |
Career Studies Certificate |
6-12 Months |
|
Welding Technology |
Career Certificate |
6-12 Months |
Certificate programs are great for students looking for fast-track employment in high-demand industries.
Program Name |
Degree Type |
Duration at NOVA |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Business Administration |
AS |
2 Years |
$5,610 (In-State), $11,690 (Out-of-State) |
|
Computer Science |
AS |
2 Years |
$5,610 (In-State), $11,690 (Out-of-State) |
|
Cybersecurity |
AAS |
2 Years |
$5,610 (In-State), $11,690 (Out-of-State) |
|
Engineering |
AS |
2 Years |
$5,610 (In-State), $11,690 (Out-of-State) |
|
Psychology |
AS |
2 Years |
$5,610 (In-State), $11,690 (Out-of-State) |
|
Biology |
AS |
2 Years |
$5,610 (In-State), $11,690 (Out-of-State) |
|
Information Technology |
AAS |
2 Years |
$5,610 (In-State), $11,690 (Out-of-State) |
|
Nursing (RN Program) |
AAS |
2 Years |
$5,610 (In-State), $11,690 (Out-of-State) |
|
Criminal Justice |
AS/AAS |
2 Years |
$5,610 (In-State), $11,690 (Out-of-State) |
After completing the Associate Degree at NOVA, students can transfer and complete the remaining 2 years at a four-year university to earn a full Bachelor’s Degree.
Affordable Tuition – Lower cost compared to four-year universities.
University Transfer Pathway – Guaranteed transfer agreements with top U.S. universities (e.g., George Mason University, UVA, Virginia Tech).
Flexible Learning Options – On-campus and online courses available.
Diverse Student Community – Over 180+ nationalities represented.
Located Near Washington, D.C. – Access to internships, jobs, and cultural experiences.
NOVA offers 120+ programs, including Associate Degrees (2 years) and Certificates (6-12 months).
Associate Degree Programs (2 Years, Transfer to Bachelor’s Degree)
Business Administration (Transfer to Business Schools)
Computer Science & Information Technology
Cybersecurity (High-Demand Career)
Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Civil)
Nursing (RN Program)
Biology, Chemistry, Psychology (Pre-Med & Science Majors)
Criminal Justice & Legal Studies
Certificate Programs (6-12 Months, Career-Focused)
Cloud Computing (AWS)
Data Analytics
Web Development
HVAC (Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning)
Paralegal Studies
1 Choose Your Program
Explore Associate Degrees (2 years), Certificate Programs (6-12 months), and Workforce Training Programs at.
Decide whether you want to transfer to a four-year university or gain job-ready skills.
2 Submit an Online Application
Apply through the NOVA Online Application Portal: Apply Here.
No SAT/ACT required for admission.
There is no application fee for domestic students.
International students must pay a $75 application fee for processing.
3 Submit Required Documents
For U.S. Students (Domestic Applicants):
High school diploma or GED equivalent (official transcripts required).
Placement tests (if needed for specific programs).
For International Students (F-1 Visa Applicants ):
High school diploma or equivalent (translated into English).
English Proficiency Test Scores (TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo, or PTE).
Copy of passport (valid for at least 6 months).
Proof of financial support ($28,000+ per year for tuition & living costs).
I-20 Request Form (for visa application).
Students who do not meet English requirements can enroll in NOVA’s ESL (English as a Second Language) program.
4 English Proficiency Requirements (For Non-Native English Speakers)
International students must meet one of the following minimum scores:
Test |
Minimum Score Required |
|---|---|
|
TOEFL iBT |
71 |
|
IELTS |
6.0 |
|
Duolingo (DET) |
95 |
|
PTE (Pearson Test of English) |
50 |
|
SAT (Evidence-Based Reading & Writing) |
480+ |
Exemption from English Tests:
Students from English-speaking countries or those who studied in English may be exempt.
Students who do not meet the minimum scores can enroll in the ESL program at NOVA.
5 Receive Admission Decision
After submitting your application and documents, the NOVA Admissions Office will review them.
Accepted students receive an Acceptance Letter & Student ID via email.
Processing Time: 2-4 weeks for domestic students, 4-6 weeks for international students.
International students will receive a Form I-20 after acceptance, which is needed for the F-1 visa application.
6 Apply for a Student Visa (For International Students )
Step 1: Pay the SEVIS I-901 Fee ($350) at.
Step 2: Apply for the F-1 Student Visa at the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
Step 3: Attend a visa interview and provide required documents (I-20, financial proof, acceptance letter, passport).
Step 4: Once approved, book your flight to the U.S. and attend NOVA’s orientation!
7 Enroll in Classes & Pay Tuition Fees
Step 1: Log in to the MyNOVA student portal to register for classes.
Step 2: Pay tuition fees online or set up a payment plan.
Step 3: Attend student orientation and get your student ID card.
NOVA offers three main intake periods each year.
Intake Season |
Recommended Application Deadline |
Classes Start |
|---|---|---|
|
Spring Intake |
November (Previous Year) |
January |
|
Summer Intake |
April |
May |
|
Fall Intake |
July |
August |
International students should apply at least 3-6 months before the intended start date to allow enough time for visa processing.
Academic Requirement:
High school diploma (or equivalent).
Minimum GPA of 2.0 (varies by program).
No SAT/ACT required.
English Proficiency (For Non-Native English Speakers):
International students must meet one of the following minimum scores:
Test |
Minimum Score Required |
|---|---|
|
TOEFL iBT |
71 |
|
IELTS |
6.0 |
|
Duolingo (DET) |
95 |
|
PTE (Pearson Test of English) |
50 |
|
SAT (Evidence-Based Reading & Writing) |
480+ |
English Exemptions:
Students from English-speaking countries or those who studied in English may be exempt.
Students who do not meet the minimum scores can enroll in NOVA’s ESL (English as a Second Language) program.
Valid Passport (at least 6 months before expiration).
Proof of Financial Support – Must show at least $28,000 USD in bank statements for tuition & living expenses.
Form I-20 (for Student Visa Application) – Issued after admission.
Health Insurance – Required for all F-1 visa students.
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Award Amount (USD) |
Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
|
NOVA Foundation Scholarships |
Open to all NOVA students; based on merit & financial need |
$500 - $3,000 |
Multiple scholarships available through NOVA Foundation |
|
Virginia Guaranteed Assistance Program (VGAP) |
Virginia residents, full-time students, GPA 2.5+ |
Up to full tuition |
Based on financial need |
|
NOVA Honors Program Scholarship |
Honors students with a GPA of 3.5+ |
$1,000 - $2,500 |
For academically high-achieving students |
|
STEM Scholarship |
Students in Science, Technology, Engineering, or Math |
$1,000 - $3,000 |
Based on academic performance |
|
NOVA Workforce Development Scholarship |
Students in career/technical programs |
Up to $2,000 |
For students in short-term training programs |
|
Foundation Excellence Scholarship |
First-generation college students |
$500 - $1,500 |
Based on financial need |
|
Veterans & Military Scholarship |
Active duty, veterans, or dependents |
N/A |
Can be combined with VA benefits |
|
Jack Kent Cooke Foundation Scholarship |
High-achieving students transferring to a four-year university |
Up to $40,000 per year |
For students planning to transfer |
|
Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) Scholarship |
PTK honor society members |
$500 - $2,000 |
Must be an active PTK member |
|
Hispanic Heritage Scholarship |
Hispanic/Latino students with strong academics |
$500 - $2,000 |
Based on merit and community involvement |
|
International Student Scholarship |
Available for F-1 visa students |
$500 - $1,500 |
Limited spots available |
Campus Name |
Location |
Facilities Available |
|---|---|---|
|
Alexandria Campus |
Alexandria, VA |
Library, Computer Labs, Student Lounge, Career Center |
|
Annandale Campus |
Annandale, VA |
Largest Campus, Science Labs, Bookstore, Cafeteria |
|
Loudoun Campus |
Sterling, VA |
STEM Programs, Cybersecurity Labs, Study Rooms |
|
Manassas Campus |
Manassas, VA |
Business & IT Programs, Career Services, Parking |
|
Woodbridge Campus |
Woodbridge, VA |
Technology Labs, Counseling Center, Fitness Area |
|
Medical Education Campus (MEC) |
Springfield, VA |
Nursing & Healthcare Training, Simulation Labs |
All campuses have:
Free Wi-Fi
Library & Study Spaces
Cafeterias & Food Courts
Computer & IT Labs
Career & Student Support Centers
Accommodation Type |
Location |
Estimated Cost (Per Month, USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Shared Apartment (2-3 roommates) |
Near NOVA Campuses |
$600 - $1,200 |
|
Studio/Single Apartment |
Alexandria, Annandale, Sterling |
$1,200 - $1,800 |
|
Homestay (with meals included) |
Host family near campus |
$700 - $1,000 |
|
Student Housing Communities |
Fairfax, Falls Church |
$1,000 - $1,500 |
Popular housing areas near NOVA: Alexandria, Annandale, Springfield, Falls Church, Sterling.
NOVA has 75,000+ students from 180+ countries, making it one of the most diverse community colleges in the U.S.
Offers cultural festivals, international student clubs, and networking events to help students connect.
Provides support services for first-generation college students, veterans, and international students.
Students can join over 60+ student organizations and clubs, including:
Student Government Association (SGA) – Represents student interests and organizes campus events.
Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) Honor Society – For high-achieving students, offers scholarships and leadership opportunities.
STEM Club – Focuses on science, technology, engineering, and math projects.
Business & Entrepreneurship Club – Helps students develop business skills and networking opportunities.
Cultural & International Clubs – Connects students from different backgrounds and promotes diversity.
Don’t see a club you like? Students can start their own organizations!
NOVA offers intramural sports leagues, including basketball, soccer, volleyball, and table tennis.
Access to local fitness centers, hiking trails, and recreational sports facilities near campuses.
Discounts on gym memberships and fitness classes for students.
NOVA hosts various events throughout the year, such as:
Welcome Week & Orientation – Helps new students adjust to college life.
Cultural Festivals & International Days – Celebrates different cultures and traditions.
Career Fairs & Networking Events – Connects students with employers and internship opportunities.
Art Exhibitions & Talent Shows – Showcases student creativity.
Workshops & Leadership Training – Focuses on career development and personal growth.
NOVA’s Career Services Center helps students with:
Resume building & interview preparation.
Internship & job placement support with top employers like Amazon, Microsoft, and U.S. government agencies.
Workforce development programs in IT, business, healthcare, and cybersecurity.
Many students work part-time while studying to gain real-world experience.
Since NOVA is near Washington, D.C., students have access to:
Museums & Historic Sites – Smithsonian Museums, Lincoln Memorial, and U.S. Capitol.
Shopping & Dining – Malls, international cuisine, and coffee shops near campuses.
Outdoor Activities – Hiking, kayaking, and nature trails in Shenandoah National Park.
Entertainment & Music Festivals – Concerts, comedy shows, and nightlife in Washington, D.C.
Resume & Cover Letter Assistance – Helps students create professional resumes and job applications.
Mock Interviews & Job Coaching – Prepares students for job interviews with real-world practice.
Internship & Job Placement Support – Connects students with local and national employers.
Networking Events & Career Fairs – Allows students to meet industry professionals and recruiters.
Certifications & Skill Development – Training in business, IT, healthcare, and cybersecurity to enhance job readiness.
Many NOVA students gain real-world experience through internships and part-time jobs while studying.
Popular Internship Fields:
Cybersecurity & IT – Cloud computing, data analytics, cybersecurity analysis.
Business & Finance – Accounting, marketing, sales, and entrepreneurship.
Healthcare & Nursing – Clinical internships, medical assisting, hospital administration.
Engineering & Technology – Software development, robotics, mechanical engineering.
Legal Studies & Criminal Justice – Law firms, court offices, police departments.
Internship Providers Include:
Amazon (IT, Cloud Computing)
Microsoft (Cybersecurity, Software Development)
Inova Health System (Nursing, Healthcare Administration)
Lockheed Martin (Engineering, Defense & Security)
U.S. Government Agencies (Internships in Washington, D.C.)
Many NOVA graduates find employment in high-demand industries such as:
Business & Finance – Management, marketing, human resources, accounting.
Healthcare & Nursing – Hospitals, clinics, private healthcare firms.
Cybersecurity & IT – Network security, cloud computing, software development.
Legal & Criminal Justice – Law firms, law enforcement, federal agencies.
STEM & Engineering – Civil, mechanical, and electrical engineering.
Many NOVA students choose to transfer to four-year universities after completing their Associate Degree (2 years).
Guaranteed Admission Agreements (GAA) with Top Universities:
George Mason University
University of Virginia (UVA)
Virginia Tech
James Madison University (JMU)
The College of William & Mary
By maintaining the required GPA, students are guaranteed admission to these universities!
Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA) has an open admissions policy, meaning it accepts 100% of applicants who meet the basic eligibility requirements.
Open Enrollment – Any student with a high school diploma or equivalent (GED) can apply.
No SAT/ACT Required – Standardized test scores are not needed for admission.
Rolling Admissions – Students can apply year-round with flexible intake dates.
Flexible Learning Options – Offers on-campus, online, and hybrid programs.
Pathway to University – Many students start at NOVA and transfer to top universities.
Even though everyone is accepted, students must meet certain basic academic and English proficiency requirements.
For U.S. Students (Domestic Applicants):
High school diploma or GED equivalent.
No minimum GPA requirement (but some programs may require a 2.0+ GPA).
For International Students (F-1 Visa Applicants ):
High school diploma (translated if necessary).
English proficiency test scores:
Test |
Minimum Score Required |
|---|---|
|
TOEFL iBT |
71 |
|
IELTS |
6.0 |
|
Duolingo (DET) |
95 |
|
PTE (Pearson Test of English) |
50 |
|
SAT (Evidence-Based Reading & Writing) |
480+ |
Financial proof (for student visa application, $28,000+ per year for tuition & living costs).
Students who do not meet the English requirements can take NOVA’s ESL (English as a Second Language) program.
Campus Name |
Location |
Special Features |
|---|---|---|
|
Alexandria Campus |
Alexandria, VA |
Close to Washington, D.C., strong liberal arts & business programs |
|
Annandale Campus (Main Campus) |
Annandale, VA |
Largest campus, science labs, bookstore, career center |
|
Loudoun Campus |
Sterling, VA |
Focus on STEM, cybersecurity, & health sciences |
|
Manassas Campus |
Manassas, VA |
Business, IT, and workforce training programs |
|
Woodbridge Campus |
Woodbridge, VA |
Criminal justice, technology, and career services |
|
Medical Education Campus (MEC) |
Springfield, VA |
Nursing, healthcare, and medical programs |
All campuses have:
Libraries & Study Spaces
Student Services & Career Support
Cafeterias & Lounges
Parking & Public Transport Access
