Student and Scholar Check-In
GENERAL QUESTIONS
What is my default password for my Unity Id?
Please look at the Unity ID FAQs
How can update my "Physical Address" in MyPack Portal once I've confirmed where I will live?
Click here to see instructions on updating Physical Address
How do I log in to MyPack Portal?
Click here to see instructions on how to log into MyPack Portal.
How can I learn more about MyPack Portal?
STUDENT CHECK-IN
What documents do I need to bring to new student check-in?
Bring your I-20 or DS-2019, I-94 card, passport, and US local address. If you have a dependent(s), bring his/her documents as well.
Do I need to schedule an appointment for new student check-in?
Yes, you must schedule a check-in with OIS. Instructions for signing up for Check-In will be posted online and e-mailed to all new students the week of July 13-17.
Can I bring my spouse to new student check-in?
Yes, your spouse is welcome to join you. We have material for spouses including English language and volunteer opportunities.
Do I have to check-in?
Yes, it is a mandatory that you physically check-in with OIS if you are in F-1 or J-1 status. Those in another immigration status should also check in. Please bring your immigration documents (see above) as well as your address and contact information..
When is the latest I can check-in?
You MUST check-in by the start of classes or as soon as you arrive at NC State, which ever occurs earlier. Not checking-in with OIS could result in a violation of your status.
How can I learn more about preparing to come to NC State (i.e., what to expect at the airport, course registration, paying tuition, packing, weather, transportation, etc.)?
The best way to get this information is from the Orientation section on our website, but you can also email a small group leader (every new international applicant who is admitted gets assigned a volunteer small group leader – contact OIS if you are not sure who your small group leader is). Most of these topics are also covered at New Student Orientation and/or at the Information Fair in the afternoon. You can also ask the volunteers during Check-in, an OIS staff member during an appointment or scheduled walk-in time, or contact someone from your culture’s international student association.
J-1 SCHOLAR CHECK-IN
What documents do I need to bring to new scholar check-in?
Bring your DS-2019, I-94 card, passport, NC State department invitation letter, and US local address. If you have a dependent(s), bring his/her documents as well. You must also bring your local physical address and contact information.
Do I need to schedule an appointment for new scholar check-in?
Your departmental representative should have scheduled a check-in appointment before your arrival or immediately upon arrival. He/she can contact our office at (919) 515-2961.
Is it mandatory that I check-in?
Yes, it is required that you physically check-in with the International office.
When is the latest I can check-in?
You MUST check-in within 30 days of the start date listed on your DS-2019.
Where can I learn about resources for my family (i.e. English language, enrolling my children in public school, etc.)?
During your check-in appointment, an adviser can review several English language courses available to you and your family and other important information to assist your family in adjusting to life in Raleigh. There is already pre-arrival information on the OIS website: called “Getting Settled”. There are also many programs in which you and your family can meet American families in the Raleigh area, improve your English, volunteer, and share with others about your country and culture. Do not forget to ask your OIS adviser about these wonderful programs!
Can I bring my spouse to the scholar check-in?
Yes, you are encouraged to bring your spouse so he/she can learn about various on and off campus resources available to him/her.
Can my spouse apply for an on-campus ID card?
Yes, your spouse is eligible for an on-campus ID card (http://www.ncsuallcampus.com/ac/cards/index.html) and can apply in the West Dunn Building. He/she should bring his/her passport, your passport, DS-2019 and your department invitation letter as proof of eligibility.
INTERNATIONAL FRIENDSHIP PROGRAM
What is the International Friendship Program?
The International Friendship Program matches American students/community members with international students for the sole purpose of cross-cultural friendship. Friends are matched based on similar interests and hobbies for the academic year and are expected to get together at least once a month.
How do I join the International Friendship Program?
All applicants must complete an application (International Friendship Partners) and attend a brief orientation with the Programs Coordinator. Contact the Programs Coordinator at OIS for more information: 515-2961, ois@ncsu.edu.
For how long are friends matched in the International Friendship Program?
One academic year.
How often are friends expected to get together in the International Friendship Program?
Friends should try to get together at least once a month and try to maintain regular contact via phone/email.
ORIENTATION
What kind of information can I expect at New International Student Orientation?
At the required New International Student Orientation, OIS advisers will discuss your employment eligibility on and off campus, Social Security, Health Insurance, Legal Issues, Obtaining Drivers Licenses in NC, Taxes, English Language Programs, etc. You will also meet other new international students and current NC State volunteers who will be available all day to answer your questions. There are so many orientations scheduled for new students. How do I know which one to attend? Contact the coordinator of each orientation to confirm if they are mandatory and require pre-registration. It is a good idea to attend all orientations listed in your admission material. The OIS orientation is required for all new international students and does not require pre-registration.
Do I need to register for New International Student Orientation?
No, you do not need to register. However, if you are unable to attend (e.g. your flight arrives after the schedule orientation), please contact OIS and your small group leader listed in your pre-arrival packet. If you will not be coming to NC State at all, please inform OIS immediately.
Do I need to bring anything to New International Student Orientation?
No, you do not need to bring anything to Orientation. However, since so much information will be distributed and discussed, bringing a pen/pencil might be a good idea.
Can my spouse attend New International Student Orientation with me?
Yes, your spouse is encouraged to attend Orientation with you to learn more about the university and opportunities offered specifically for spouses (English language, volunteering, on-campus resources, etc.)
If I arrive late and am unable to attend Orientation, what should I do?
Contact OIS because there may be a make-up Orientation scheduled at a later date. Information about a make-up Orientation will be posted on the OIS website.
Do I have to pay the Orientation fee, even if I do not use all the services?
Yes, all new international students are charged the Orientation fee along with their other student fees regardless of services used. We encourage all new international students to take advantage of such services (Orientation, Temporary Housing/Airport Pickup, Welcome Party) to enrich your knowledge and experience at NC State.
How do I pay the Orientation fee?
You will pay the Orientation fee along with your other student fees processed through the Cashier’s Office (http://www.fis.ncsu.edu/cashier/).
What housing opportunities are available to me?
Contact the University Housing office housing ( http://www.ncsu.edu/housing/index.php) to learn more about on-campus housing. Off-campus housing information can be searched via the internet, local newspapers, and student fliers on campus. OIS can also arrange temporary housing (Temporary Housing) the first few days before classes with advanced notice from the student. Please fax or email your temporary housing request to OIS (919) 515-1402 or ois@ncsu.edu by the deadline listed on the form. Temporary housing is usually arranged with a current NC State student or local American family.
Does OIS arrange airport pickup?
Yes, OIS or a volunteer can pick you up from the airport if you request this service in time. Please fill out the online Airport Pick Up Request
Do you need volunteers to assist with New International Student Orientation?
Yes!! If you like to assist future international students, OIS would love your assistance as small group leaders, check-in volunteers, temporary housing hosts, and to assist with various other needs! Commitment levels can be one-time opportunities or an ongoing position during the academic semester, depending on your time and interest. Contact the Programs Coordinator to discuss the various opportunities: 515-2961, ois@ncsu.edu.