The International English as a Second Language (IESL) Pathway program at Cañada College is designed for international students who do not meet the English proficiency requirements for direct admission. This program combines English language instruction with college courses and prepares students for degree programs. Successful completion guarantees admission to Cañada College, College of San Mateo or Skyline College without taking the standardized English test scores such as TOEFL or IELTS.

Start Your Application Contact the International Student Center
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Why Choose the IESL Pathway Program?

Study in the heart of the Bay Area with practical support, a welcoming campus community, and resources that help you thrive.

  • Silicon Valley Location
    Cañada College is in Redwood City, between San Francisco and San Jose.
  • Beautiful Campus With State-of-the-art Facilities
    Take advantage of a scenic campus with state-of-the-art facilities, modern learning environments, and resources that support student success.
  • Homestay Program and Housing Assistance
    Find homestay opportunities and housing resources to help you secure comfortable accommodations and make a smooth transition to college life.
  • Scholarship Opportunities
    Explore more than 50+ institutional scholarships. Eligibility requirements and award amounts vary.
  • Access to Campus Resources
    Access to all college resources, including the Athletic Center, Library, Tutoring, and Health Center.
  • Campus Jobs and Student Activities
    Eligible to work on campus while you study. Enjoy a vibrant campus life with student clubs and organizations.
Illustrated San Francisco Bay Area map showing Cañada College, College of San Mateo, Skyline College
Cañada College, home to the IESL Pathway, is located between San Francisco and San Jose in the Bay Area.

 

Program Information

Full-Time Enrollment

Take 10 ESL units plus 2–6 selected college units for a total of 12–16 full-time units per semester.

Transferable College Credit

Earn up to 18 transferable college-course credits in addition to ESL credits.

Program Duration

The program typically takes 1–3 semesters, approximately 5–18 months. Completing Level 4 fulfills the English-proficiency requirement for academic program admission.

Program Levels

 
Level Courses
Level 2
  • ESL 912 (5 Units)
  • ESL 922 (5 Units)
Level 3
  • ESL 913 (5 Units)
  • ESL 923 (5 Units)
Level 4
  • ESL 914 (5 Units)
  • ESL 924 (5 Units)
  • Academic Command of English (ACE) Award

Program Cost at a Glance

At-a-glance program cost summary per year
Expenses Cost per Year
Tuition Fees* $10,584
Health Insurance $2,631
Living Expenses $13,750
Misc $5,535
Total $32,500

* Tuition calculation: 12 units × 2 semesters × $441 per unit.

About this summary: This table reproduces the Program Information figures supplied for this section. The following “Estimated annual cost” section uses the page’s planning categories and includes an official source note; both show the same $32,500 annual total.

Application Deadline Planning Schedule

Compare planning dates for new and transfer students.

Planning Deadlines by Entry Term and Applicant Type
Entry Term New Student Transfer Student
Fall July 1 August 1
Spring November 15  January 1

Use these dates for planning only. Application dates can change, so confirm the exact term and year on the official SMCCCD international admission page.

Admission Requirements

This summary highlights the core items listed by SMCCCD for international admission.

No application fee is required.

Review the official international admission requirements for current details and exceptions.

  • Age
    Applicants must be at least 16 years old.
  • Financial Documentation
    Provide financial documents showing at least $32,500 in available funds.
  • Academic Records
    Provide an official high school transcript.
  • Graduation Diploma for Applicants Under 18
    Provide a high school diploma if you are under 18 years old.

How to Apply in Three Steps

  1. Create Your Account

    Open the international application portal and create an online application account.

  2. Upload Supporting Documents

    Add your academic records, financial documents, and any age-dependent documents that apply to you.

  3. Submit Online

    Submit the application, and watch your email for next steps.

No application fee. Submit your application through the international application portal.

Start Your Application

Contact the International Student Center

Ask about the IESL Pathway, application documents, or the next step for your situation.

Contact the International Student Center

Cañada College

International Student Center
Building 9, Room 163
4200 Farm Hill Blvd.
Redwood City, CA 94061

Phone: +1 (650) 381-3544

Email: caninternational@smccd.edu