Getting Started: Always check with your au pair program coordinator or area director to ensure your courses will be approved.

Inquiry/Questions? Contact the International Education Office with any questions about classes or information about returning to College of Marin as an F-1 International Student.

 

Credits vs. Hours 

Most au pair programs require students to take 6 credits or 72 hours of coursework during their program year.

Hours can be earned in many different ways and are the most common way for au pairs at College of Marin to complete their program. Students can earn hours by taking any noncredit or not-for-credit recreational class (such as Community Education classes). In general, it is less expensive for students to earn hours when compared to credits.

Credits (or units) can only be taken in credit-bearing classes typically assigned to college-level coursework, for example, a business or math class. It is always beneficial to meet with an Academic Counselor before taking credit courses, as they may require preparatory classes called prerequisites or a high level of English. Classes are 16 weeks long and require class preparation, exams, homework and projects. College of Marin also offers ESL classes.

Taking Classes with Community Education (Earn Hours)

Community Education classes are one of the most popular options for au pairs at College of Marin. Classes are fun, offer flexible schedules, and are affordably priced. Classes are short-term (ranging from one-day workshops to seven-week classes), begin at many points throughout the year, and do not require homework. Click here to browse current class offerings.

Enrollment and Registration

Community Education courses are open to everyone so you will not need to wait for enrollment confirmation or a student number. Registration is easy!

1. Create an account
2. Pick a course and add it to your cart
3. Pay with a credit card

Click here for detailed information about creating an account, registering for classes, and how to pay.

Community Education Course and Attendance Verification

1. Let your instructor know that you will need attendance verification.
2. Each student is required to track their hours of attendance and complete an Attendance Verification Form.
3. At the end of each class, ask your instructor to sign your form to verify your hours of attendance. Instructors will only verify attendance for times when you are present.

Follow all instructions on the Attendance Verification Form, and contact the International Education Office with any questions.

Questions? We’re here to help!

Au pairs and host families are welcome to call or email the International Education Office with any questions regarding our classes, programs, attendance verification forms, or questions about changing status to F1.

Email: international@marin.edu
Call: (415) 457-8811 Ext: 7740