Center for International Students and Programs

RCC International Students and Programs

Please note

We are currently serving our students in-person and remotely. Please contact us at internationalcenter@rcc.edu and we will be glad to assist you.

Ranked top 47 in the USA, Riverside City College (RCC) offers and excellent gateway to education in the USA!

Drawn by over 100 diverse accredited programs, athletics and artistic practice, students from more than 50 countries come to RCC to find a quality education. In return, RCC embraces and welcomes their contribution of ideas, culture and passion while providing an affordable, safe and accessible option just a short drive from Los Angeles.

Contact Us

Technology B, Room 203
Riverside City College
4800 Magnolia Ave.
Riverside, CA 92506, USA
(951) 222-8160
internationalcenter@rcc.edu

How to become An RCC student 2024 INFORMATIONAL FLYER

Our International Student Services

Please email our office for the following services which do not require an appointment: Travel signature, change address, request letters, pick up/drop off documents. 

Please make an appointment with an academic counselor for the following services:

  1. Transfer Requirements
  2. More/Less Units
  3. Academic Probation/Dismissal
  4. Other academic-related services

International students can also meet with counselors at the Counseling Center.

Please make an appointment with an international student advisor for the following services:

  1. OPT advising
  2. I-20 Advising 
  3. Other F-1 advising related services

Schedule an International Counseling Appointment

Option 1: (Free) Regular Overseas Mail

Overseas mail takes 4-6 weeks and it is not trackable. If you want your I-20 sent by regular overseas mail, please verify your current address with the Center of International Students & Programs by email internationalcenter@rcc.edu  and state that you want to receive your I-20 through this free service. 

Option 2: Paid Express Mail  

The Center for International Students & Programs uses an express mail service that will allow you to receive your documents through DHL, UPS, or FedEx in 3-5 days. Requesting your documents through express mail is at YOUR expense and your credit card (Visa, MasterCard or Discover cards only) will be charged upon requesting the service.
To request express mailing of your documents:

  1. Go to EshipGlobal website.
  2. Register for a student/scholar account. You will then receive an e-mail requesting activation of account.
  3. Activate your account.
  4. Log in to your student/scholar account.
  5. Follow Instructions to Receive Documents and proceed to pay.
    Our school in EShipGlobal appears as Riverside City College and Cntr for Intl Students & Prgms

You MUST use the website provided above. DO NOT go through the DHL or FedEx website directly. If you have additional questions about how to use this service, please e-mail support@eshipglobal.com​.

International Student Health Insurance Requirement

All students at RCCD on an F1 student visa are required to purchase health insurance coverage through the college approved provider.  

We have secured health insurance coverage for our international students through Risk Strategies. International Student Insurance Plan is available specifically for our students. On the Risk Strategies site, you will find information about enrollment, plan overview, information on how to use your plan, and how to find a provider.

Insurance term dates for the fall are July 15-January 14 and January 15-July 14 for the spring.

International Student Life

Our Center for International Student & Programs 

Center for International Student & Programs (CISP) at RCC serves all international students at Riverside Community College District. We provide a variety of services catered to international students. Stop by our office on the RCC campus in Tech Building, Room 203 to find out more about our services, meet our staff, and grab a snack or coffee

International Welcome Mentorship (IWM) 

The IWM program connects international students with experienced RCC students to help you navigate college life, make friends, and thrive – academically and personally. Mentors offer support with adjusting to U.S. culture, using campus resources, and building community. Open to international students at any stage. 

What is the International Welcome Mentorship (IWM) Program?

The IWM Program is a peer mentorship initiative designed to support international students at Riverside City College (RCC) as they transition to life and studies in the U.S. Through this program, new or continuing international students are paired with experienced RCC students (mentors) who help them navigate academics, cultural adjustment, and campus life.
 
The program fosters a welcoming environment where international students feel valued and supported. It reduces feelings of isolation, builds meaningful connections, and offers both emotional and cultural support through shared peer experiences. Mentors assist mentees in understanding U.S. classroom norms, local customs, and language nuances, while helping them adjust to the academic and social expectations of college life in the U.S. This early support strengthens confidence, promotes engagement, and contributes to student retention and success.

Program Goals

  • Promote academic success, retention, and student engagement
  • Foster a culturally inclusive and supportive RCC campus community
  • Provide emotional support and encourage a sense of belonging
  • Help international students navigate U.S. academic and social systems
  • Develop leadership, cultural competence, and communication skills in mentors

Who Can Participate?

Mentees:
  • Open to all international students at RCC
  • Available regardless of what semester they are in
  • Ideal for students seeking cultural acclimation, social connection, and academic guidance
Mentors:
  • Must be a current full-time RCC student
  • Must have completed at least one semester at RCC
  • Must have a minimum 3.0 GPA
  • International or domestic students are welcome
  • Must commit to approximately 2–3 hours per month of engagement

How It Works 

  • Mentors and mentees are matched based on program of study/major if available
  • The first meeting must take place in person; future meetings can be virtual or in person depending on preference
  • Mentorship pairs are encouraged to meet or connect at least twice per month
  • Mentors are expected to maintain communication, initiate check-ins, and guide conversations respectfully
  • Mentees are expected to participate actively, attend agreed meetings, and share their needs openly
  • Mentors do not provide academic advising or immigration advice

What Do Mentors and Mentees Talk About?

Mentors and mentees discuss topics that support IWM goals. Discussions include:

  • How to use RCC systems like Canvas, WebAdvisor, and EduNav
  • Communicating with professors and using tutoring or writing support
  • Exploring RCC clubs, events, and volunteer opportunities
  • Tips for housing, transportation, and navigating Riverside
  • Adjusting to cultural differences and building social confidence
  • Managing homesickness, stress, and time effectively

Recognition for Mentors

  • Certificate of leadership involvement
  • Opportunity to request a recommendation letter (based on participation)
  • Ability to log volunteer/student services hours
Apply to be a mentor  Request a mentor 

Student Clubs

RCC offers a unique and diverse list of many clubs and organizations that you can become involved in to enjoy friendships, make a difference, gain leadership skills and earn volunteer community service hours.  With a huge range in themes from cultural and artistic to political and career centered, there is a place for everyone. 

Volunteering

We would love to have you volunteer and engage with other international students through our office. We welcome volunteers to assist with various CISP events such as orientation, luncheons, and other events. Please contact us if you would like to be added to our list of volunteers. There are also volunteering opportunities through service to an RCC club. You will be able to log hours and even be considered for awards. Keep in mind that all volunteer experiences look great on your resume and can lead to great references.

Things to Do in Riverside

Riverside has a variety of activities for students to enjoy. From the arts to outdoor activities, you are sure to find something fun and exciting to do on your time off from studying hard. 

The Congress-Bundestag Youth Exchange

The Congress-Bundestag Youth Exchange for Young Professionals (CBYX) is a fellowship funded by the German Bundestag and U.S. Department of State, that annually provides 75 American and 75 German young professionals, between the ages of 18½–24, the opportunity to spend one year in each other’s countries, studying, interning, and living with hosts on a cultural immersion program. Riverside City College is proud to host students in the CBYX program.