Most of the immigration regulations and procedures, as well as upcoming events and information on various programs and services of interest to the international community at NC State may be found on OISSS's web site: http://www2.ncsu.edu/ncsu/academic_affairs/oisss. An International Student and Scholar Handbook is also available to each new international student or scholar.
A two-day orientation program for new students is scheduled in August prior to the fall semester and a one-day program is scheduled in January prior to the spring semester. A periodic newsletter, International Update, keeps students informed of University policies and events, scholarship opportunities as well as immigration information.
Students in F-1 and J-1 status are required by the United States Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) to carry a full course of study in the fall and spring semesters in order to maintain their legal status (generally 12 credit hours for undergraduates; 9 for graduates). Summer school enrollment is optional. For exceptions, please consult an adviser at OISSS.
Because of high medical costs in the U. S., all international students in F-1 or J-1 non-immigrant status are required by University policy to purchase the University's student health insurance. U.S. federal law also requires that J-2 dependents be covered by adequate medical insurance while in the U.S. Health insurance coverage for F-2 dependents living in Raleigh is strongly recommended. International students must pay for health and accident insurance before registration.
Financial problems of international students may be brought to the attention
of the Office of International Scholar and Student Services. Short-term
emergency loans are often available for limited amounts of money to those
enrolled international students who have unexpected living costs. There
is no financial assistance for international undergraduate students. International
graduate students or applicants interested in financial assistance should
consult their academic departments.
See also English for International Students, Tuition, Fees, and Other
Expenses, and Lifelong Education Students.
Þ Additional information: Office of International Scholar and Student Services, 1201 Talley Student Center, phone: 515-2961, email: OISSS@ncsu.edu