CGU is distinct for its exclusive focus on graduate education (Master's and PhD), its interdisciplinary approach encouraging study across traditional boundaries, its membership in The Claremont Colleges consortium offering unique resources and cross-registration, and its emphasis on applied research and preparing students for impactful careers beyond academia.

Class sizes are intentionally small, emphasizing close interaction with faculty and peers. Seminars often range from 5 to 20 students, while lectures might be slightly larger but still significantly smaller than at large research universities, fostering personalized attention and discussion.

Deadlines vary significantly by program. Many programs have Fall (August/September start) deadlines ranging from January to June, some with priority deadlines earlier. Spring (January start) and Summer admissions are less common but offered by some programs. Always check the specific program page on the CGU website for exact deadlines.

Requirements vary by program. Many programs require GRE or GMAT scores, but an increasing number offer waivers based on GPA (e.g., 3.0+ or 3.5+), specific undergraduate degrees, significant professional experience (often 5+ years), or possession of a prior graduate degree. Always verify the current policy for your specific program.

Letters of recommendation (typically 2-3) are crucial. Strong letters from academic faculty familiar with your research/writing abilities or from professional supervisors who can attest to your skills and potential for graduate work carry significant weight in the holistic review process.

Claremont is consistently ranked as one of the safest cities in California. The CGU campus and surrounding Claremont Colleges area are well-lit, patrolled by the highly visible Claremont Colleges Campus Safety department 24/7, and have a very low crime rate. Students generally feel very safe walking around campus and the village area.

Resources include 24/7 Campus Safety patrols (909-621-8170), emergency call boxes throughout the campuses, safety escorts upon request, crime prevention programs, timely safety alerts (Clery Act notifications), and coordination with the Claremont Police Department. Students are encouraged to program the Campus Safety number into their phones.

The primary safety concerns are common to all students (like securing belongings). Campus Safety provides resources and support for all students. Claremont is a welcoming community. International students receive specific orientation information covering safety resources, local laws, and cultural adjustment support services.

Yes! Cross-registration is a major benefit. CGU students can typically take up to 50% of their coursework at the other Claremont Colleges (undergraduate or graduate level, with permission), subject to space and prerequisites, broadening their academic options significantly at no extra tuition cost.

Many master's programs offer flexible scheduling, including part-time options and evening classes to accommodate working professionals. While CGU is primarily campus-based, an increasing number of programs offer hybrid formats (mix of online and in-person) or fully online options. Check specific program details.

This varies. Doctoral programs are inherently highly research-intensive, culminating in a dissertation. Master's programs range from professionally oriented (with capstone projects or internships) to more research-focused (potentially leading to a thesis). All programs emphasize applying knowledge and critical thinking.

CGU offers merit-based scholarships (often substantial, sometimes covering 50-100% of tuition), fellowships (including stipends, often for PhDs), graduate assistantships (providing tuition remission and a stipend for work), federal student loans (FAFSA required), and private loans. Need-based aid is very limited for graduate students.

No, not always. While many admitted students receive merit-based scholarships, these are awarded as part of the admission decision process based on the strength of the application (GPA, test scores, experience, etc.). You are automatically considered for most merit awards when you apply; separate applications are usually only required for named fellowships or assistantships.

GA opportunities are typically listed on the CGU Human Resources site or department pages after admission. Students apply directly for these positions, which involve working a set number of hours per week (often 10 or 20) for a department or administrative office in exchange for tuition remission and a stipend. Competition can be high.

Many students live off-campus in the surrounding Claremont area (apartments, shared houses) or in nearby cities like Upland, Pomona, or Montclair, often accessible by bike, foot, or the local Foothill Transit bus system (free for students). CGU itself has limited on-campus graduate housing (Dartmouth Court apartments), which is popular but fills quickly.

The cost of living in Claremont is moderate to high for Southern California. Rent is the biggest expense. Sharing an apartment is common. Budget carefully for rent, utilities, food, transportation, and personal expenses. The CGU Financial Aid office provides estimated cost of attendance figures.

Yes, Claremont is very walkable and bike-friendly, especially around the colleges and the village. The Claremont Colleges shuttle and free Foothill Transit bus access (via student ID) cover Claremont and connect to nearby cities and Metrolink commuter rail stations (Claremont and Montclair), providing access to greater LA. A car is convenient but not strictly necessary.

Optional Practical Training (OPT) allows F-1 students to work in the US in their field of study for up to 12 months after completing their degree. Students in designated STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) programs may be eligible for a 24-month STEM OPT extension, allowing for a total of 36 months of post-graduation work authorization.

Yes, CGU's International Students and Scholars Office (ISS) provides dedicated advising and workshops on OPT eligibility, application procedures (including timing and documentation), and maintaining status during OPT. They guide students through the process but do not guarantee approval (USCIS decides).

CGU's Career Development office offers services to all students, including international students. This includes resume/CV reviews tailored to US standards, interview preparation, job search strategies, networking events, and access to Handshake job listings. They also collaborate with ISS on OPT-related career planning. Success depends heavily on the student's field, skills, experience, and proactive job search efforts.