Living and Studying in Pasadena: A Guide for International Students (2025)

In this blog, you’ll learn:  Pasadena offers top-quality education and a welcoming international community. Pre-departure prep is essential: visa, documents, finances, and flight arrangements. First-week priorities: arrival logistics, I-94 retrieval, check-ins, and getting connected. Housing options include on-campus dorms or off-campus apartments; plan for utilities and safety. Getting around without a car is easy via public transport, walking, biking, or ride-sharing. F-1 students must follow rules for on-campus and off-campus work (CPT, OPT, STEM OPT). Budget wisely and take advantage of student discounts to manage finances. Enjoy Pasadena’s culture, outdoor activities, and local events to make student life fun.

What’s Pasadena really like for an international student? 

It’s not only sunny weather, stunning historic streets, and top-notch schools, but also new rules, paperwork, confusing systems, and panicking thoughts like, “Am I doing this right?”

Heading to Pasadena is just one part of the bigger journey you’re about to begin. You’ll be adjusting to a new culture, a new city, handling visas and paperwork, finding a place to live, figuring out daily conveyance, and whatnot! 

Did you know, according to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s data, the U.S. saw a record 1.58 million international students in 2024. And, California tops the list with more than 1.3 lakhs international students. 

So, if you are also packing up for this journey in 2025, this guide is your map for that unknown territory. Let’s get you prepared!

Why Should You Choose Pasadena for Studies? 

Pasadena isn’t just famous for the Rose Parade and pretty neighbourhoods. Indeed, it’s a student-friendly city with plenty to offer:

• Pasadena is home to institutions like Pasadena City College and the world-renowned California Institute of Technology (Caltech). You’ll find quality programs whether you are into science, arts, or business.

Note: Do you know Pasadena City College (PCC) serves over 27,250 students each semester, with students coming from more than 60 countries. Check out how this PCC graduate calls his college one of the best community colleges in California, with supportive clubs and a welcoming vibe.

• With nearly 30% of residents being foreign-born, Pasadena stands as a city where different cultures come together. Surely, you won’t feel out of place in this incredible city at all! 

• Only about 10 miles from downtown Los Angeles, Pasadena combines a calm student atmosphere with the benefits of a major city nearby. Being near LA means easy access to internships, research opportunities, and part-time jobs.

• Pasadena’s Mediterranean climate lets you explore, hike, or just hang out outdoors almost any time of the year.

The Pre-Departure Checklist: What Should You Do Before Moving?

Now that you know what makes Pasadena a great choice for studies, the next step is preparing for the big move. After all, you want your arrival to be smooth and stress-free, right?

Secure Your Admission Documents

• Have your offer letter, Form I-20, and admission confirmation in place.
• You should have ready copies of TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo English Test scores. In most schools, they are a necessity during admission.

Apply for The F-1 Student Visa Process

• Schedule your F-1 student visa interview in advance.
• Pay the SEVIS fee and assemble all the necessary documents.
• Ensure that your passport is valid for your entire period of study.

Organize Immigration & Paperwork

Prepare a folder containing essentials, such as a passport, a visa, Form I-20, SEVIS receipt, admission letter, and proof of finances. Always remember to keep these documents in your carry-on bag for easy access during travel.

Financial Preparation: Understanding the Costs

• Primary expenses will be: tuition, housing, meals, transport, health insurance, etc. 
• Set up a debit/credit card that is international-friendly.
• You should have some U.S. dollars in cash to use during your first week.

Quick Tip: Book your flights well in advance. Because prices rise quickly, arriving at least a week before classes start gives you enough time to settle in.

A Quick-Action Plan For Your First Week in Pasadena

Your first week in this new city can definitely feel both exciting and a little scary. Along with unpacking your things, you’ll meet new people, explore new places, and have a ton of chores to finish.

Arrival and Transportation 

• You can fly into Hollywood Burbank Airport or LAX to get to Pasadena. 
• If your college or school provides an airport pickup, schedule one. 
• Additionally, you can use ride-sharing applications like Lyft and Uber. 
• Verify bus routes or Metro Gold Line connections into Pasadena if you plan to stay off campus. 

Note: When traveling, keep some cash and your most important documents close at hand. 

The Weather in Pasadena: What to Expect 

Pasadena experiences mild winters and warm summers. With approximately 300 days of sunshine, the average temperature for the year remains at 63.9°F (17.7°C). Hence, sunscreen and water bottles are a must-have.

Required Check-Ins

• To check in for SEVIS, go to the International Student Office at your university.
• Learn about academic policies, student resources, and campus facilities by attending orientation sessions.

• Obtain your student ID card, which can sometimes be used as a pass for the gym, the library, and even public transportation.
• As asked, submit copies of your passport, visa, Form I-20, medical records, and insurance documentation. 
• Download and print a copy of your I-94 arrival/departure record after logging into the CBP (Customs and Border Protection) portal.

Connecting With the New Place 

• Configure your phone plan or SIM card in the United States. T-Mobile, AT&T, Mint Mobile, and other well-known networks are among them. 
• Connect to the school’s wireless network and sign in to your email and student portal. If you live off campus, set up your home internet.
• Open a student-friendly bank account.
• Join campus WhatsApp, Facebook, or Discord groups to start building connections.

Settling into Pasadena feels way easier when you’re confident with your English. That’s why many students choose to study English in the USA with A F International College. Join our English programs and settle in faster!

How Do I Find Housing in Pasadena?

The first big task for every international student: finding a place to stay! In Pasadena, you have two options: 

On-Campus and Off-Campus Housing

Let’s understand both the options with a quick table to help you decide better:

Feature	On-Campus Housing	Off-Campus Housing
Convenience	Walk to classes, library, gym, dining hall — everything is inside or near campus	Commute required (e.g., Metro Gold Line to LA, biking around Pasadena, or rideshare like Uber/Lyft)
Community	Built-in student community, easy to make friends	More independence, choose your own roommates
Costs	Often higher upfront, but usually includes utilities	Can be cheaper monthly, but utilities (Wi-Fi, electricity, water) are extra
Furnishing	Usually furnished (bed, desk, dresser)	May be unfurnished;  need to buy/rent furniture
Flexibility	Limited choices, must follow university rules	Freedom to pick a neighborhood, style of housing
Safety	University-monitored, secure access	Varies by neighborhood; need to research carefully
Availability	Limited spots, apply early	More options, but competitive in popular areas
Lease Terms	Semester or academic year contracts	6–12 month leases are standard
Types	Dormitories, student apartments/suites, themed housing, graduate/family housing	Shared apartments, studios, house shares, single-family homes, homestays, short-term rentals

Utilities Setup

Once you secure housing (off-campus), you will need to set up utilities on your own: 

• Electricity & Gas: Southern California Edison (SCE), SoCal Gas.
• Water & Trash: Usually handled by your landlord or city services.
• Internet/Wi-Fi: Spectrum, AT&T Fiber, or Xfinity.

Safety Tips

Being a safe and welcoming city, Pasadena makes it easy for students to settle in. But like any new place, it’s your responsibility to stay alert.  

• Check neighborhoods in daylight before signing.
• Read the lease contract carefully.
• Choose well-lit streets, and don’t share any personal details with random people. 
• Save 911 in your contact list for any emergency. 

How Do You Get Around Pasadena Without a Car?

Some of the convenient options for daily conveyance in Pasadena are:

• Rely on public transport: LA Metro buses, Pasadena Transit, Metro Gold Line.

Pro Tip: Consider getting a TAP card for the metro and local buses. Just tap and pay!

• Pasadena is bike-friendly with dedicated lanes and trails.
• University areas and Old Town Pasadena are very walkable.
• When public transit isn’t convenient, you can go for Uber and Lyft.

Note: Get a driver’s license if you wish to have your own vehicle. 

How Can International Students Work and Manage Money?

The trickiest part for international students? Yes, it is balancing studies and finances. There are some U.S. rules and regulations that you need to follow if you want to work while studying.

On-Campus Employment:

• F1 students can work on campus without special authorization. 
• Limited to 20 hours per week during the semester and full-time during breaks. 
• Typical roles include library assistant, dining services, or research help.

Off-Campus Employment

• First Year: Off-campus work is generally not allowed.
• After First Year: You may work, if eligible, through:

• Curricular Practical Training (CPT): Internships or jobs that are part of your curriculum.

• Optional Practical Training (OPT): Work related to your major, available before or after graduation.

• STEM OPT Extension: Students in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) fields can extend OPT by an additional 24 months.

Please Note: For off-campus employment, international students must obtain an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) issued by USCIS.  A Social Security Number (SSN) is required for all paid work. Apply for it after starting your job with proper authorization.

What Can You Do for Fun in Pasadena?

To break from the monotony of classes and paperwork, Pasadena has plenty of options for exploring, socializing, and enjoying the city! To keep yourself entertained after school hours, here’s a list of activities to do: 

Explore Local Attractions

• Old Town Pasadena
• The Rose Bowl Stadium
• Norton Simon Museum

Outdoor Activities

• Hiking Trails: Eaton Canyon, Pasadena Hills, etc. 
• Parks and Gardens: Brookside Park, the Huntington Library Gardens
• Cycling & Jogging
• Day trips to Los Angeles, Santa Monica beaches, or Griffith Park for weekends

Festivals & Events

• Tournament of Roses Parade (New Year’s Day)
• Pasadena Chalk Festival & Art Events
• Student-Focussed Campus Events

Food & Entertainment

• Local Cafes & Restaurants: Union Street French Café, Urth Caffe, Old Town Caffe, etc.
• Coffee Shops & Study Spots: Republik Coffee, Copa Vida, Jameson Brown Coffee Roasters, etc. 
• Theatres & Live Music: Pasadena Playhouse, A Noise Within Theatre

Look how this Reddit user can’t stop raving about Pasadena; it seems like this place checks all the boxes for international students.

9 Tips on How to Save Money as a Student in Pasadena

Living in Pasadena can get expensive if you are not careful with your spending. So, to keep you under budget, here are some useful tips: 

1. Consider sharing an apartment to split rent and utilities.
2. Buy textbooks used or online instead of new ones.
3. Shop at local markets for affordable groceries.
4. Cook at home instead of eating out frequently.
5. Take advantage of special student discounts whenever heading out for fun! 
6. Walk or bike when possible.
7. Use public transport like the Metro Gold Line or local buses instead of taxis or rideshares.
8. For furniture or household items, consider thrift stores or online resale platforms.
9. Most important one: Set aside a small emergency fund for unexpected costs.

Conclusion: Are You Ready to Make Pasadena Your New Home?

Moving to a new city, which is as lively as Pasadena, is a big step for your future! But, it’s also an exciting adventure, no? 

From unpacking bags and hunting for the house to finding fun spots and working to run errands, every step is a part of building your new life abroad! 

Even imagining this whole scenario can be a bit terrifying, but with the right prep, a little planning, and a willingness to explore, Pasadena can quickly start to feel like home. 

So, pack your bags and gather all the documents; your Pasadena journey is waiting! 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is Pasadena a good college town?

Yes, Pasadena is a great college town with Pasadena City College and nearby universities. It offers a mix of cultural spots, student-friendly amenities, safe neighborhoods, and plenty of opportunities for social and academic growth.

2. How much can an international student earn in California?

International students can typically earn through on-campus jobs, usually around 20 hours per week during school terms. Earnings may range from $12–$16 per hour, depending on the role and location, helping cover living expenses.

3. Is it safe to walk around Pasadena at night?

Pasadena is generally safe, especially in well-lit, busier areas. Like any city, it’s smart to stay alert, avoid isolated spots, and walk with friends when possible. Most students feel comfortable moving around at night.

4. Which part of Pasadena is the best?

Old Town Pasadena is popular for shopping, food, and nightlife, while neighborhoods like Bungalow Heaven and Madison Heights are known for their charm and safety. For students, areas near PCC or Caltech are the most convenient.

5. What major city is Pasadena close to?

Pasadena is close to Los Angeles, just about 10 miles away. With public transport and freeways connecting the two, students can easily access LA’s job opportunities, cultural attractions, and international airports.

6. What are the benefits of living in Pasadena versus Los Angeles?

Pasadena offers a quieter, safer, and more student-friendly lifestyle compared to Los Angeles. It has a strong community feel, beautiful neighborhoods, and cultural spots, while LA provides more hustle, opportunities, and nightlife, but at higher costs.

7. Is Pasadena an expensive place to live?

Yes, Pasadena is considered relatively expensive compared to other California towns. Housing and rent are the biggest costs, though students often manage expenses by sharing apartments, using public transport, and budgeting smartly for food and entertainment.