Student support
For a truly successful experience, you not only need a high-quality academic program, but also a support network that ensures you can focus on your studies and enjoy student life. Our concern for you begins while you are still in your home country and continues throughout your studies at OSU.
International Student and Faculty Services offer a range of important services for international students during their time at Oregon State. Besides advising you on visa and immigration regulations, ISFS can assist with personal and academic concerns, employment workshops, cultural adjustment issues and general information about Oregon State and the Corvallis community, including three-day home stays and English conversation programs for students and spouses.
Supporting your application
Your first point of contact with Oregon State University is likely to be representatives in your home country. These representatives know 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.
Meet us in your country
There is a network of regional offices throughout the world to assist you. Our team of regional managers provides additional support for our representatives and attends overseas education exhibitions and events. Representatives from the Center and the International Admissions Office at Oregon State University regularly travel overseas offering an opportunity for you to discuss your study plan face-to-face.
Applying to Oregon State University
Once you have applied to 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.
Prior to Your Arrival
Pre-Departure Guide
Once you have accepted an offer to study at Oregon State University, you will receive a Pre-Departure Guide containing essential information that 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.
Click here to download the Pre-Departure Guide
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. The airport is approximately 90 minutes from Corvallis. We offer an Airport Shuttle and Greeting Service from the airport to your accommodations for an 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 by visiting uhds.oregonstate.edu/into/arrival
When should I arrive?
You should arrive in Corvallis the day before your program start date. General English students should arrive the Sunday before their classes begin on Monday. Students staying in on-campus accommodation should inform the Housing and Student Services Coordinator of your date of arrival and travel arrangements at least two weeks in advance so we can be sure your housing reservation is confirmed with University Housing and Dining Services. Students will not be able to check in to accommodations prior to the published arrival date.
Student Services team
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 OSU, the team will help you 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 question, there is always someone available to assist you.
Orientation
Your program begins with Orientation. This is an exciting and important time for you as you begin your studies with INTO OSU. Attendance at orientation is required of all students. You will take an English placement test, register for your courses, and receive your schedule. Other important activities during Orientation include: opening your OSU email account, getting your OSU ID card, registering with the Health Center, and taking a tour of the campus and downtown Corvallis. We also throw a welcome party where you can meet other students and make new friends.
Ongoing Support
24-hour support
We are dedicated to ensuring that you feel safe and supported. Before your arrival, you will be given an emergency telephone number that can be used to ask for assistance from student services staff at any time of the day or night. Within the university residence halls, there are full time live-in Resident Directors who are responsible for the welfare of on-campus students.
Language advisers
Language advisers at the Center are available to assist new and prospective students and parents who may not be able to communicate effectively in English.
Trips and activities
While the main reason for coming to Corvallis is to study, social 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 many trips and activities designed to help you make the most of your time in the U.S. From white water rafting down an Oregon river to watching professional sporting events in Portland and Seattle, students at INTO Oregon State University experience all the beauty, fun and thrills that the Pacific Northwest has to offer. Additionally, Student Services coordinates several programs designed to introduce you to American students in order to help you improve your English and feel welcomed and involved in the Corvallis community.
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. For further details please contact the Student Services team.
Insurance
The Oregon State University International Student Health Plan is available for all students. 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 Oregon State University international 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 coverage amounts is available in the Pre-Departure Guide