Study in Pago Pago, American Samoa

About Pago Pago

Pago Pago is the main harbour town of American Samoa, a United States territory in the South Pacific. It lies on Tutuila, the largest island of the territory. According to the US National Park Service, the islands have been inhabited for more than 3,000 years, and Samoan culture is the oldest in Polynesia. The fa'asamoa, the Samoan way of life, still shapes daily life: Sunday, for example, is reserved for church, rest and quiet.

For a student, Pago Pago is a small, very local place to study. It suits residents of American Samoa and people who want to study Samoan and Pacific culture, marine science or nursing close to home, rather than students looking for a large campus.

Studying in Pago Pago

Our directory lists 1 school here: American Samoa Community College (ASCC), the territory's college. It awards associate degrees, certificates and one bachelor's degree. The Bachelor of Education in Elementary Education requires at least 120 credits. Associate of Arts and Associate of Science degrees require at least 60 credits and prepare students to transfer to a four-year college or university or to go straight into work. Subjects range from business administration, political science and Samoan studies to marine science, natural resources, nursing, cybersecurity and trades such as welding and carpentry. Certificates of proficiency (at least 30 credits) are aimed at quick entry into a job. Every degree includes general education with a module on Samoa and the Pacific. Teaching is in English.

Admission is open, but ASCC requires students to be legal residents of American Samoa. Students who are not US citizens or US nationals must present a current authorisation from the American Samoa Government Immigration Board and valid local identification. All new students take placement tests in English and mathematics, and there is no application fee. The fall 2026 semester runs from 17 August to 27 November 2026.

Cost of living for students

Tuition at ASCC is charged per credit. Under the fee schedule approved in 2021, a credit costs $150 for residents and $160 for non-residents, and 300- and 400-level bachelor's courses cost $215. Students also pay a technology fee of $10 per credit and a registration fee of $50 per fall or spring semester. ASCC does not publish rent figures; contact the college before you arrive.

Getting around and daily life

American Samoa has a tropical climate. The National Park Service gives temperatures from the high 70s to the low 90s Fahrenheit all year (about 25 to 33 °C), with high humidity; the drier areas receive an average of 125 inches (about 3,200 mm) of rain a year. Tropical storms are more likely in the rainy season from November to May. Medical care is available on Tutuila. The National Park of American Samoa, created in 1993 and covering more than 8,000 acres of rainforest and coral reef, is close by for hiking and snorkelling. Dress is modest: bikinis are not recommended in public areas.

Frequently asked questions

Can international students study at American Samoa Community College?

ASCC admits legal residents of American Samoa. Students who are not US citizens or US nationals need an authorisation from the American Samoa Government Immigration Board and local identification.

How much does ASCC cost?

Under its 2021 fee schedule, ASCC charges $150 per credit for residents and $160 for non-residents, plus a technology fee of $10 per credit and a $50 registration fee per semester.

Can I transfer from ASCC to a US university?

Yes, that is one aim of the associate degrees: ASCC says its Associate of Arts prepares students to continue at a four-year college or university.