In the American education system, community colleges are truly hidden gems.

They offer low tuition, have a low admission threshold, and can serve as a stepping stone to transfer to a four-year university. The closest community colleges available to West Covina residents are Mount SAC and Citrus College.

Mount SAC (Mt. San Antonio College) is located just 4 kilometers (2.7 miles) from West Covina. Situated in Walnut, this school is one of the largest community colleges in California, offering over 200 degree and certificate programs. It has a wide range of programs, from traditional academic subjects to vocational training and technical education. The previously mentioned Mt. SAC Early College Academy is a high school program operated in conjunction with Mt. SAC.

Q: How can I transfer to a four-year university from Mt. SAC? A: The California community college system provides clear pathways for transferring to UC and CSU. Completing the IGETC (Intersegmental General Education Transfer Curriculum) can fulfill general education requirements for UC transfer. Additionally, through the TAG (Transfer Admission Guarantee) program, you can receive guaranteed transfer to certain UC campuses. Consulting with the Mt. SAC Transfer Center will provide you with a specific roadmap on which courses to take.

Citrus College is located in Glendora, about 12 kilometers (7.4 miles) from West Covina. It offers over 100 degree and certificate programs, with strengths in areas such as Fine Arts, Music, Theater, Business, and Health Sciences. It is particularly well-known in the performing arts field.

Q: What is the tuition for community colleges? A: California residents pay approximately $46 per unit. If you take 15 units in a semester, it would cost about $690, which is extremely affordable compared to a four-year university. Additional costs for textbooks, parking, and other fees apply, but the total cost is much lower than that of UC or private universities. Low-income students can receive a full tuition waiver through the Board of Governor's Fee Waiver (BOGFW).

For immigrant families, community colleges are a practical choice in many ways. They offer English as a Second Language (ESL) programs that allow students to improve their English skills while pursuing a college education. Additionally, vocational training programs enable students to quickly obtain the certifications needed for employment. Evening and weekend classes are also available for adult learners or those balancing work and study.

If you are new to West Covina or a parent considering your child's educational path, I highly recommend looking into community colleges. Directly attending a four-year university is not the only answer. Spending two years at Mt. SAC and then transferring to UC can be an excellent choice in terms of both cost and outcomes.