Enroll

Student Visa (I-20)

To study full-time in the United States, you are required to obtain an F-1 student visa. Students must apply for MCELI using our online application.

Once we receive your complete application, the Merced College International Student Services will issue a Form I-20, which is necessary for your visa application. The processing time for the Form I-20 is approximately one week.

After receiving your I-20, you will need to schedule an F-1 visa interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in your home country. For detailed information about the visa application process, please visit travel.state.gov

Admission to Merced College

Students who achieve a TOEFL score of 450 (iBT 45) or complete the 15-week MCELI program with a grade of A or B are eligible to enroll at Merced College without submitting a TOEFL score.

Depending on English proficiency, students may also audit a college course while studying at MCELI to gain first-hand experience in an American classroom environment.

Upon completion of the MCELI program, the International Student Services Office will assist students with the Merced College enrollment process to ensure a smooth transition into academic studies.

International students who already meet the English proficiency requirement—a TOEFL score of 450 (iBT 45), IELTS 5.0, or Eiken Grade 2A—may apply for direct admission to Merced College. Please include official test score reports with your application. For additional information, refer to the International Students section of the college website.

How to Enroll

Admission to MCELI

Admission to the Merced College English Language Institute (MCELI) is open to all individuals who hold or are applying for an F-1 student visa. Applicants must provide written proof of financial ability to support themselves while studying in the United States or submit documentation showing financial sponsorship.

Transfer students from another ESL school are required to submit the same documentation listed below, along with a Transfer Clearance Form, before an official Acceptance Letter can be issued.

Class Schedule and Enrollment

MCELI follows an open enrollment policy, allowing students to begin their studies on any Monday during the term. Tuition fees are prorated weekly based on the student’s start date. Please note that students who complete the full 15-week program with strong academic performance will be eligible for enrollment in Merced College credit classes.

Application Requirements

To apply for MCELI, please submit the following materials with your online application:

1. MCELI Online Application Form
   – Available in the Forms section of our Resources page.

2. Financial Guarantee and Bank Statement
   – The bank account holder’s name must match the name of the financial sponsor.
   – The statement must show a minimum balance of $23,000 USD, issued within the past 12 months.

3. Copy of Official Academic Transcripts
   – Submit high school and/or post-secondary transcripts, translated into English.

4. Letter of Academic Recommendation
   – A short letter explaining your academic background, achievements, and educational goals.

5. Application Fee  $350 (non-refundable)
   – Complete the Credit Card Payment Form included in the application packet.
   – For other optional fees, please refer to the Fees Page.

After You Apply

Once your complete application is received, MCELI will issue a Form I-20 within one week. This document allows you to apply for an F-1 Student Visa to study at Merced College.

Along with your I-20, you will receive an official Acceptance Letter containing details about your class schedule, orientation, and next steps for enrollment.