Occidental College | Los Angeles
Situated on a beautiful 120-acre campus in Los Angeles, Occidental College offers an immersive education in one of the most dynamic and diverse cities in the world. Undergraduate research, local and global learning opportunities, and faculty mentorship epitomize the academic experience. Outside the classroom, students participate in some of the 100 clubs and organizations, compete on one of 20 NCAA Division III athletic teams, or recharge amidst the supportive living community in one of our 17 residence halls.
Learn more about the international student experience at Occidental by visiting our website at oxy.edu/international
By the Numbers
2,000
student
18.1% of students have a non-U.S. passport
languages spoken by the first-year class 17 average class size
states, D.C., Guam, and Puerto Rico 29 foreign countries
Learning in Los Angeles
Occidental is one of the few liberal arts colleges located in a major U.S. city, and the only one in Los Angeles.
A Global City
Los Angeles is one of the most diverse cities in the United States. People from more than 140 countries, speaking 224 different languages, call Los Angeles home.
Professional Growth
Our long-standing partnerships across the city open opportunities for students to learn, intern, and work at some of the most esteemed organizations and institutions in the country.
Recreational Fun
Los Angeles is an incredible place to explore. From museums to sports teams, mountains to beaches, diverse neighborhoods, and great food, there is plenty to keep you entertained outside of class.
Check out our virtual tour at oxy.edu/virtual-tour
Areas of Study
American Studies
Art and Art History
Asian Studies
Biochemistry
Biology
Black Studies
Chemistry
Chinese Studies
Classical Studies*
Cognitive Science
Comparative Studies in Literature and Culture
Computer Science
Critical Theory and Social Justice
Diplomacy and World Affairs
Economics
Education*
Engineering (combined degree program)
English
Environmental Science**
Food Studies*
French Studies
Gender, Women, and Sexuality Studies*
Geology
German Studies*
Group Language
History
Independent Pattern of Study
Interdisciplinary Writing*
Japanese Studies
Kinesiology
Latino/a and Latin American Studies
Linguistics*
Admission and Financial Aid
Marine Biology**
Mathematics
Media Arts and Culture
Music
Neuroscience*
Philosophy
Physics
Politics
Psychology
Public Health*
Religious Studies
Russian Studies*
Sociology
Spanish Studies
Theater
Urban and Environmental Policy
*Minor only / **Concentration
Occidental seeks to admit a highly qualified, diverse student body. We’ll closely review your transcript for academic rigor and performance, keeping in mind that non-U.S. grading systems have various standards, nuances, and expectations. We also give serious consideration to qualities such as intellectual curiosity, leadership, and distinctive talents. We evaluate students within the context of their environment.
Application Requirements
A full list of application requirements and instructions can be found on the admission website at oxy.edu/international. Among the application materials, we’d like to point out two that are of particular interest to international students:
• Test scores to demonstrate English proficiency (required): TOEFL (100 minimum score), IELTS (7.0 minimum score), or DET (130 minimum score)
• Admission interview (optional): A great way to demonstrate your English proficiency and interest in Occidental is with an admission interview. This can be done through InitialView, Vericant, or an appointment with an Occidental volunteer.
Enrolling Class Profile
• A-/B+ grade average (if U.S. grading is provided)
• IB Diploma Predicted Score (with bonus points): 35-39
• Students who attended high school outside of the U.S.: 8.5%
• Students attending Occidental on an F-1 student visa: 6.9%
• Students who were born outside of the U.S. or who have parents born outside the U.S.: 49.8%
Financial Aid and Scholarships
All applicants will be considered for merit-based scholarships, which are given to students who show outstanding academic, extracurricular, and personal achievement. Meanwhile, need-based financial aid (financial assistance based on family income and assets) for international students is limited and extremely competitive at Occidental–only a few applicants are offered need-based financial aid each year.