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Orientation and Arrival

Arrival Information

International Student Orientation will occur in August and January for fall and spring semesters.  Information will be emailed to new students.

Arrival

Students will receive an electronic Welcome Guide along with their I-20 Form.  Transportation information is contained in the packet.  Students should review the information before finalizing their flight arrangements. 

*Shippensburg University issued I-20 forms and visa instructions electronically.  Once admitted, to receive your I-20 form and instructions you must first submit your Enrollment Confirmation Deposit.  Once the deposit is received and processed, I-20 forms are issued within 5 business days and instructions are emailed to applicants to access the documents via their Admissions Portal.  Printed documents can be mailed at the expense of the applicant and Shippensburg University partners with E Ship Global for international mailing of documents.

Immediately upon arrival on campus, holders of F-1 visas (graduate and undergraduate) are required to report to the Global Education Center in Mowery Hall Rooms 246-251.  Directions to the office can be found at the left of this page.   Students need to bring their passport including visa and their I-20. 

International students must complete an International Student Information Sheet and health insurance verification each semester. International students must carry a full-time course load each semester (6 credits for graduate students and 12 credits for undergraduate students).

Packing

  • Exchange of foreign currency should be done before coming to Shippensburg. Local banks do not provide this service. We will assist you in opening a bank account soon after you arrive. If more money is needed from your home country, it can be wired directly to your bank here.
  • Pennsylvania experiences all seasons (winter, spring, summer, fall). If you have been admitted for the fall semester and arrive in August, lightweight clothing is appropriate. If you have been admitted for the spring semester and arrive in January, a heavy overcoat, gloves and wool clothing will be necessary.
  • Bilingual Dictionary
  • Extra eyeglasses or eye prescription (if you wear them)
  • Medical prescriptions: Bring at least one month's supply if you take any medicines on a regular basis. Have pharmacist label them clearly for customs inspections.
  • Photos of family and friends
  • Bedding: Sheets, blankets, pillows, towels are not available in the residence halls or apartments. You must provide them yourself. You can purchase them here as well.
  • Articles of clothing or something that represents your country

Checking in after Arrival

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