International Student Services (ISS)
If you're an international student planning to study in the United States, Bluegrass Community & Technical College (BCTC) is a great place to begin your educational journey.
Choose the Right Degree
BCTC offers two main types of associate degrees:
Associate in Arts (AA) / Associate in Science (AS)
Choose this option if you plan to earn a bachelor's degree at a university.
The AA/AS includes general education courses such as English, math, science, and humanities. These degrees are designed to transfer to a four-year university through a 2 + 2 pathway: complete your first 2 years at BCTC, then transfer to a university for your final 2 years to earn your bachelor's degree.
Associate in Applied Science (AAS)
Choose this option if you want to prepare for a specific career after graduation.
AAS programs focus on hands-on, career training in fields such as healthcare, information technology, manufacturing, and skilled trades. These degrees include fewer general education courses and are generally not designed for transfer to a bachelor's degree program.
Most international students choose an AA or AS degree because they plan to continue to a bachelor's degree.
If you're not sure which degree is right for you, contact our International Student Office at BL-International@kctcs.edu. We're happy to help you choose the program that best fits your goals.
Click here to learn more about applying as an international student!
International Student Services Office
Feel free to email us with any questions: BL-International@kctcs.edu
Office Location
Newtown Campus
500 Newtown Pike
Classroom Building, 103G
ISS Office Hours
- Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
If you cannot call or meet us in person, you may also email BL-international@kctcs.edu.
International Students Frequently Asked Questions
While the U.S. Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration Services does allow international students to work on campus for up to 20 hours per week while classes are in session and up to 40 hours per week during vacations, job opportunities for international students are not guaranteed.
Because BCTC is a smaller school, there are a limited number of jobs available and international students cannot expect to be guaranteed a campus job. It is important to ensure you have sufficient funds for your education before coming to the United States, since there are very few scholarships or job opportunities available for international students. Do not plan financially to rely on income from a job during your time at BCTC.
No, financial assistance is not available for international students.
You must contact the Admissions Office and apply. You must:
- Meet the academic requirements for the college.
- Be accepted.
- Provide financial support documents.
- Be issued an I-20 form, and;
- Apply for the F-1 (DS 2019 for J-1) student visa at the U.S. embassy or consulate in your country.
You will be able to register for classes only after completing the International Student Orientation as well as the BCTC orientation for beginning freshmen. Please refer to your acceptance letter for dates of the orientations. You will be assigned to an academic advisor who will then assist you with registration.
Please see the cost page.
Community colleges offer fully accredited academic programs that prepare the student for access to upper division education at public and private universities. Community colleges also offer two year certificate programs that lead to employment.
- Easy, open admission policies.
- Wide selection of academic programs.
- Basic skill courses including ESL.
- Supportive learning environment with small classes.
- Low cost tuition.
- Credits fully transferable to other colleges and universities.
