Student support
For truly successful study, you not only need a high-quality study program, but also a support network that ensures you can focus on your studies and enjoy student life. INTO Care begins while you are still in your home country and continues throughout your studies at the Center.
INTO Oregon State University has a network of representatives in many countries to help you make the right decision about your study plan at OSU. Once you arrive in Corvallis, Oregon, you will be looked after by the INTO Student Services team and when you enroll in your degree program, the university’s student services network will continue to support you until graduation.
Supporting your application
Your first point of contact with INTO Oregon State University is likely to be one of INTO’s representatives in your home country. Our agents recognize the importance of the choices you are making and are well informed about our programs and the university. They will gladly answer any questions and assist you with your application.
Applying to INTO Oregon State University
Once you have applied to INTO Oregon State University, our team of experienced admissions staff will ensure that your application is processed swiftly and that you receive the correct documents, including your I-20, so that you can successfully obtain your student visa for entry into the U.S.
Meet us in your country
INTO has a network of regional offices throughout the world. Our team of regional managers provide additional support for our representatives and regularly attend overseas education exhibitions and events. Representatives from the center and the Admissions Office at Oregon State University regularly travel overseas offering an opportunity for you to discuss your study plan face-to-face.
Prior to your arrival
Pre-departure guide
Once you have accepted an offer to study at INTO Oregon State University, you will receive a pre-departure guide containing useful information which will assist you in preparing for travelling to the U.S., arriving in Corvallis and enrolling in your program of study at the center. The guide also includes information to help you adapt to living and studying in another culture.
Your arrival
Portland International Airport (PDX) is the nearest international airport to Corvallis and can be reached via any of the main international airports in the U.S. PDX is approximately 90 minutes from Corvallis and we offer a transfer service from the airport to your accommodations at a small additional charge. If you want to make use of this service, please provide the Student Services team with your full flight details in advance of your arrival date. Full details of how to do this will be provided with your confirmation documents.
When should I arrive?
You should arrive in Corvallis the day before your program start date. Please refer to page 70 for start dates. General English students should arrive the Sunday before their classes commence on Monday. You should inform INTO of your date of arrival and travel arrangements at least two weeks in advance of the arrival date so we can advise University Housing and Dining Services.
Student services team
Based at the center, the student services team looks forward to meeting you and supporting you throughout your studies. They offer a range of support services to meet the specific needs of international students. When you first arrive at the center, the team will help you to settle in to student life in Corvallis and will remain as your first point of contact for any non-academic issues, ranging from making an appointment with a doctor and opening a bank account to renewing your visa. Whatever the problem, there is always someone available to help and advise.
Orientation program
It is important that you attend the orientation program which is provided on arrival to welcome you and introduce you to studying at the INTO Center and living in Corvallis. The program includes a formal academic orientation where you will be registered for your program, take an English language placement test, select your courses, receive your schedule and – for academic programs – take a math test. You will also be given a tour of the University campus, including the library, the students’ union and the sports center. Followed by an introduction to the city center so that you can find out about the local transportation systems and where the best places are to shop. During Fall orientation week for academic programs there are also daily organized social activities to help you settle into life at the center and meet other students.
On-going support
24-hour support
INTO is dedicated to ensuring that you feel totally safe and supported. Upon arrival all INTO Oregon State University students are issued with an emergency telephone number which can be used to ask for assistance from INTO staff at any time of the day or night. Within the university residences, there are residential assistants (RAs), who are responsible for the welfare of students living in dedicated INTO Oregon State University accommodations and provide an additional source of 24-hour support.
Language advisers
At the center our language advisers are available to assist new and prospective students and parents, who may not be able to communicate effectively in English.
Social activity program
While the main reason for coming to Corvallis is to study, involvement in non-academic activities will help you adjust to life in the U.S. and allow you to develop a network of friends to make your stay more enjoyable. The university campus offers a wide variety of options for socializing, experiencing the arts or taking part in sports. INTO also organizes a regular program of activities designed to help you make the most of your time in the U.S. The program includes visits to places of interest in Corvallis and Oregon, as well as visits to sporting events, the theater and cinema and other outdoor recreational activities.
Visa and immigration support
Once students arrive at the center, the student services team, in conjunction with the university’s International Student and Faculty Services Office, will provide information, support and guidance on renewing your student visa, making sure your I-20 is always current and will issue any documentation you may need to support your visa application. Immigration workshops will be held throughout the year and individual appointments will be made available for you should you require any specific advice.
Support for students with disabilities
A confidential service offers advice and information covering a range of disabilities including dyslexia, sensory impairments, mobility and medical conditions.
Insurance
The INTO Oregon State University International Student Health Plan offers a full range of student protection and support services. This comprehensive insurance policy prepared especially for international students in the U.S. will cover you during your travel to the U.S. and return, as well as provide full health and medical insurance.
Full health and medical insurance is mandatory for all INTO Oregon State University students, therefore fees for the Student Health Plan will be automatically added to course fees unless proof of suitable alternative coverage is provided.
A complete list of pricing and coverage will be provided at the time of admission.