Question 1

How much musical experience do I need before I apply?

Accepted Answer

We encourage students of all skill levels to apply. At a minimum, one to three years of dedicated study on your primary instrument are recommended. Our programs are designed to teach fundamental musicianship from the ground up, so the main qualities we look for in new students are academic excellence, passion for music, and dedication to personal and artistic growth. Click here to learn HOW TO APPLY.

Question 2

Are scholarships available at CCM?

Accepted Answer

In an effort to make popular music education affordable for everyone, we offer Talent-Based Scholarships for all applicants. You can also contact us at (626) 577-1751 or admissions@ccmla.edu for assistance.

Question 3

How do I apply?

Accepted Answer

It's so easy! See our HOW TO APPLY page for step-by-step guidance through the application process. If you need assistance, contact us directly at (626) 577-1751 or admissions@ccmla.edu for help.

Question 4

What are the housing options at CCM?

Accepted Answer

We do not offer on-campus housing. However, we provide information on how students can find their own housing in the Pasadena area at our housing resources page. For those who still require assistance locating housing, we offer a Housing Placement Service for a one-time fee of $250 to connect students with vetted landlords and homestay owners. Please visit the housing resources page or contact us at (626) 577-1751 or admissions@ccmla.edu for assistance.

Question 5

How old do I need to be to apply?

Accepted Answer

All students must provide Proof of Graduation from high school or the equivalent before enrolling in a program at California College of Music. Acceptable forms of Proof of Graduation are a high school transcript showing graduation date, a high school diploma, a passing score on a GED® test, or a transcript from an accredited college or university. Our standard minimum age requirement for entrance is 18 years old.

Question 6

When can I enroll?

Accepted Answer

College-level programs accept applications for our Spring and Fall quarters, which typically begin in early April and October, respectively.

Question 7

Is CCM Accredited?

Accepted Answer

California College of Music is an accredited institutional member of the National Association of Schools of Music.

Question 8

I'm an international student. How do I get a student visa?

Accepted Answer

If you are accepted to any of CCM’s college-level programs, you will receive a Form I-20, which establishes a record for you within the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) and makes you eligible to apply for a visa interview with the US Embassy in your country. The US Embassy decides whether or not to grant you a student visa, which would allow you to enter the US to study music.  In order to successfully obtain your Form I-20, your first quarter tuition and fees must be paid in full. Visa regulations are subject to change; check the US Embassy website at WWW.USEMBASSY.GOV for up-to-date information. Contact us at (626) 577-1751 or admissions@ccmla.edu if you have further questions.

Question 9

What is Optional Practical Training for international students? How do I become eligible for OPT?

Accepted Answer

Optional Practical Training ("OPT") is a work authorization by USCIS which allows a student holding an F-1 student visa to stay in the United States for up to one year after completing their program in order to work and gain professional experience in their field of study. International students who successfully complete one of our 12-month Certificate programs or our 18-month Associate of Science in Performance program are eligible to apply for OPT. Further information can be found at the USCIS OPT page and the DHS Study In The States OPT page. If you have any questions regarding OPT, please contact us at (626) 577-1751 or admissions@ccmla.edu.