Global Online Learning (GOL)
Global Online Learning (GOL) allows students over 18, including high school graduates, to obtain transferrable credits without leaving their home country! Students can begin online and later transition to an in-person program or complete their entire program online. It's also a great option for students looking to make the most of a gap semester or year before starting university. All GOL courses are offered through San Mateo Colleges of Silicon Valley and taught by American professors.
Already a GOL student? Access GOL Student Resources →
Requirements to Apply
You either:
- Have a high school diploma or high school equivilency
- are 18 years of age or older at the beginning of the academic semester
- Proof of English Language Proficiency (TOEFL iBT 56, IELTS Band 5.5, Duolingo 85, Completion of SVIEP Level 4). For other options, see our full list of Proficiency Requirements.
- Have an Identification Card
- Student has access to the internet, including Google, Gmail, YouTube, and online news sites such as the nytimes.com.
Why Apply for GOL?
Student Testimonial
"[Global Online Learning] is an excellent and responsible school. Teachers over there are professional and easygoing. Additionally, [Global Online Program] courses are fantastic! It provided a convenient way for me to learn more subjects. The online courses are not limited by time so students can study anytime and anywhere before the due date. I had a really wonderful experience in my online course. It gave me a chance to learn more while still in China and improve myself quickly!"
- Yiran Li
Tuition Fees and Payment
Tuition & Fees: $422 per unit (unit = credit)
*A majority of our classes are 3 units, which is $1,266 USD per class.
Books & Supplies: USD $200 (estimate)
Pay via credit card on WebSMART
Software Requirements for GOL Students
- Google Apps for Education (Gmail, Google Docs, etc.)
- Zoom
- Canvas (smccd.instructure.com)
- YouTube (and other video platforms)
- Online news site like nytimes.com
- mySMCCD Portal through OneLogin (smccd.onelogin.come)
- SMCCD website and web applications (websmart.smccd.edu, webschedule.smccd.edu, degreeworks.smccd.edu, etc.)
- College websites (canadacollege.edu, collegeofsanmateo.edu, skylinecollege.edu.)
- Formstack (formstack.com)
- Student support help desk (Zendesk, Kayako, etc.)