Checklist forNew International Students ~ page 1

Before you depart your country:

Prepare for your visit to the American Embassy or consulate in your country. Please refer to the enclosed form, “Obtaining a Visa for Study in the U.S.” for visa application procedures and fees.

Visit the SRJC website at: complete the SRJC Online Application for Admission. After completing this step, you will receive a confirmation email and your SRJC Student ID number.

Visit our webpage at: complete the Online Orientation for SRJC. This step will allow you to register for your classes as early as possible.Access the online orientation through your student portal, myCubby, using your 9-digit Student ID number (SID) and Pin Code.After you have logged in, click on the link at the left side of the page under "Quick Links" that says "Online Orientation".

Contact our International Student Counselor, MissAmanda Mansfield at: She will help you select your classes for the upcoming semester.

Make your travel plans. You must arrive by the “Report Date” on your I-20 form, but we encourage you to arrive earlier. You can enter the U.S. up to 30 days before the Report Date. You will need time to arrange for housing and transportation, visit the campus, meet with a counselor, take placement tests and attend our Welcome Orientation.

Register for classes. You should plan to register for your classes soon after contacting our counselor. Login to your Student Portal using your SRJC Student ID number to enroll in your classes. It is important to register as early as possible to get the best selection of classes. Some helpful hints when registering with our online system:

  1. Classes are available on the Santa Rosa Campus, Petaluma campus, and several other off-campus locations. Click on the Room location to see where the class is located.
  2. Ten minutes “passing time” between classes allows you to schedule classes back to back.
  3. All classes are identified by a four digit code called a “section number”, and an abbrieviation. For example: Political Science 1 will be listed as: POLS 1.
  4. International students are limited to 1 online class (up to 4 units) per semester.

Find Housing. To rent an apartment walking distance to campus, contact Tracy Engelen at . For information regarding homestays, email Lupita Barragan at r visit the International Student Placements website: isphomestays.comFor additional housing options visit SRJC’s website at for more information. You can also try Craigslist at apartments and share rentals.

Open a credit card account before you leave your country. Having a VISA or MASTERCARD makes it easier to pay your tuition fees and make purchases. Let your credit card company know you will be using the card in the United States.

Photocopy and Safeguard your Documents. It is much easier to replace lost or stolen items if there is a record of them. You should photocopy your passport, visa stamp page, and SEVIS I-20 form.

Checklist for New International Students ~ page 2

After Your Arrival in Santa Rosa:

  1. Open a Bank Account. It is not a good idea to store cash in your home. You should open an account with a local bank so you can have funds available to pay your bills. Most banks require a passport and one other form of identification to open and account. Exchange Bank, Bank of America, Chase Bank and Wells Fargo Bank are some of the banks you will find in our area.
  1. Visit the Campus. We have a large campus, so you should take some time to familiarize yourself. Once you arrive on campus, you will need to check in with Kim Hunt in the Admissions Office, Plover Hall. You will need to present your visa/passport and proof of Health Insurance at that time.
  1. Take Placement Tests. SRJC requires all new students to take placement tests for English and Math courses. Test results are essential for academic Counselors to properly advise you on courses. Contact the Assessment Services Office for more information on test dates or visit their website at: for more information. You will need to provide your Student ID number to make an appointment for a test date.
  1. Pay the Student Health Insurance fee. This fee must be paid by the first day of the semester.
  1. Attend the WelcomeOrientation for new International students. This session will provide you with important information to help you become a successful student at SRJC. The orientation is mandatory for all new students.
  1. Obtain your SRJC “Student ID”, Photo Identification card. Many offices on campus, such as the Admissions Office, computer labs, and the Library require you to show your identification. It is a good idea to carry it with you at all times. Bring your registration receipt to the Student Affairs Office in Bertolini Hall to have your picture taken and ID card made.
  1. Purchase your textbooks. Each class usually requires you to purchase textbooks. Print a copy of your classes from the internet, then visit the campus bookstore in Pioneer Hall to purchase your textbooks and supplies. You can also purchase textbooks online from other booksellers.
  1. Attend Classes! Once you have a printout of your classes, you may want to find the classroom locations ahead of time. The first day of classes can be very busy. Be sure to arrive for your classes on time.
  1. Pay your tuition. Tuition and fees are due after your register for classes. You can pay by credit card, check or money order. If you pay by check, you can pay the entire balance, or make payments. The balance will remain on your account until paid in full. You will not be allowed to register for the next semester until your balance is paid.

The International Admissions Office at SRJC:

  • Provides vital immigration advice and guidance throughout your stay at SRJC, including employment, travel and maintenance of your F-1 student status
  • Can advise you regarding personal, cultural, financial or other concerns you may have.
  • Keeps you up-to-date on important legal information and local events through the International Student Newsletter sent out each month.
  • We encourage you to contact us any time you have questions!

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