San Mateo Colleges of Silicon Valley
USA
Your Bridge to Top Universities: Achieve guaranteed transfer admission and launch your career in the heart of the world's tech capital.
Colleges in the District
University Transfer Partners
Institutional Scholarships
Total Annual Student Headcount
About San Mateo Colleges of Silicon Valley (SMCSV)
The San Mateo Colleges of Silicon Valley (SMCSV) comprises three excellent community colleges—College of San Mateo, Cañada College, and Skyline College—all located in San Mateo County, California. SMCSV offers international students a direct and affordable pathway to elite four-year universities in the United States and worldwide. Situated in the heart of the San Francisco Bay Area, the colleges provide a high-quality, comprehensive curriculum focused on university transfer and career technical education.
SMCSV is distinguished by its strong academic reputation and its status as a top-ranked community college system in the US for international student enrollment. SMCSV maintains an explicit mission to ensure equitable opportunities and success for all students within a diverse, global community. International students benefit from dedicated support services, guaranteed transfer options, and the unparalleled professional networking proximity to major tech companies in Silicon Valley.
#1
Return On Investment (ROI) College in California (Skyline College)
#6
Best Community College in the U.S. (College of San Mateo)
Acceptance Rate
Honors Transfer Program 99%-100% UCLA Acceptance Rate (Cañada College)
Why Choose SMCSV
Your academic journey begins here, offering a high-quality education and unparalleled opportunities for global success.
GUARANTEED UNIVERSITY TRANSFER
SMCSV is recognised as a top community college system for university transfer, offering formal Transfer Admission Guaranteates (TAGs) with prestigious institutions like the University of California (UC) and California State University (CSU) systems. Students gain preferred admission status to more than 100 partner universities globally by meeting specific GPA requirements within their two-year associate degree program. This clear, structured pathway ensures seamless progression to the final two years of a bachelor's degree.
SILICON VALLEY LOCATION ADVANTAGE
Studying here places you directly in the heart of Silicon Valley, the global centre for technology and innovation, offering immense career and internship opportunities. The colleges are just 30 minutes from downtown San Francisco and close to headquarters of companies like Google, Apple, and Salesforce. This location provides students with unparalleled access to networking, mentorship, and real-world experience, often leading to competitive Curricular Practical Training (CPT) and Optional Practical Training (OPT) internships.
FIRST-RATE STEM EDUCATION
The colleges offer first-rate education in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM), with strong programs in Computer Science, Engineering, and Health Sciences. The curriculum is taught by experienced industry-leading professionals, providing practical, up-to-date knowledge and skills essential for high-tech careers. Students gain early access to advanced laboratories and resources, preparing them for highly selective transfer programs at top research universities.
ACCESSIBLE AND AFFORDABLE
As a public community college system, SMCSV offers a high-quality education at a significantly lower cost compared to US four-year universities. Tuition and fees are substantially more affordable, providing an excellent value proposition for international students seeking a US degree. The colleges also offer over 50 institutional scholarships annually, based on financial need, academic achievement, and other interests. This affordability, combined with robust scholarship opportunities, makes the goal of earning a respected American degree highly accessible.
DEDICATED INTERNATIONAL SUPPORT
International students receive comprehensive, personalised support through the Center for Global Engagement. Services include designated one-on-one academic counselling, visa guidance, a homestay referral programme with a dedicated housing coordinator, and resources for immigration. This ensures a smooth transition and adjustment to life in the US. Furthermore, international students are given the benefit of early class registration, which guarantees access to required courses for their transfer plan.
VIBRANT CALIFORNIA LIFESTYLE
The campuses are located in safe, beautiful neighbourhoods in San Mateo County, offering a quintessential California lifestyle with a mild climate and over 260 days of sunshine annually. The area is rich in diverse cultural and recreational activities, from beaches and mountains to the urban culture of San Francisco and San Jose. Campus life is enhanced by over 30 student clubs, honor societies, and a variety of cultural events, fostering a welcoming, multicultural community where all students can enjoy their college experience.
Discover the Campuses of SMCSV
Diverse and Engaging Campus Environments Designed to Foster Exceptional Learning and Personal Growth.
Hear from the Students of SMCSV
Explore the Study Options
San Mateo Colleges of Silicon Valley specializes in preparing students for university-level studies through a variety of programs and courses.
Associate Degrees (University Transfer)
Certificates of Achievement (Career Technical)
Global Online Learning
Explore the Subject Areas
Choose Your Interest
Biology
Business Administration
Computer Science
Engineering
Economics
Psychology
Interior Design
Fashion Design
Digital Art & Animation
Architecture
Film
Astronomy
Automotive Technology
Biotechnology
Public Health Science
Upcoming Events
University Meet - Qatar
Participating Countries: Canada, UK, Australia, Germany, New Zealand and More!
Date & Time :
Friday November 21, 2025
3:00 - 7:00 pm (AST)
Education Fair - Oman
Participating Countries: Canada, UK, Australia, Germany, New Zealand and More!
Date & Time :
Saturday, November 22, 2025
3:00 - 7:00 pm (GST)
Education Fair -
UAE
Participating Countries: Canada, UK, Australia, Germany, New Zealand and More!
Date & Time :
Sunday, November 23, 2025
2:00 - 7:00 pm (GST)
Frequently
Asked Questions
The main pathway is the University Transfer Program, where students complete the first two years (Associate Degree) at one of the colleges and then transfer to the third year of a four-year university with guaranteed admission.
Applicants must demonstrate English proficiency with a minimum score, such as IELTS Band 5.5, TOEFL iBT 56, or Duolingo 85, though alternative methods are also accepted.
While there is no traditional on-campus dorm, the colleges offer a Homestay Referral Program with a dedicated coordinator to arrange safe and quality accommodation with local host families.
International students on F-1 visas are eligible for on-campus employment, and later for Curricular Practical Training (CPT) and Optional Practical Training (OPT) for internships and work experience in the US.