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Step 1 - Apply for Admission
Download and complete the appropriate application form:
Use the International Student Application with Affidavit of Support
In addition to the application, you should include the following:
- $50 International Student Application Fee (no cash, please)
- Any school transcripts (high school and/or college)
- Financial Support Documents (if using a sponsor)
- Original bank statements showing funds available
Send the relevant information to:
Hocking College- International Student Services
3301 Hocking Parkway
Nelsonville, Ohio 45764
Please allow up to four (4) weeks for processing.
Step 2 - Apply for a Visa
Upon acceptance, you will be sent an acceptance letter and an I-20. Take these documents to the
United States Embassy in your home country for processing. Additional information on applying for a visa.
Important Note: A visa does not guarantee entry into the USA. The ultimate decision is made by the immigration officer at the point of entry.
Step 3 - Apply for Housing
Before traveling to the USA, you are required to make arrangements for housing. Hocking College requires a specific local address at least 7 days prior to your entry into the USA, and you will be required to produce a specific address at your point of entry.
Check out and apply for campus managed housing or find a home in off-campus housing.
If you need assistance in choosing a suitable place to live, contact Karen Stalder at 740-753-7044.
Step 4 - Arrange for travel to the USA and campus
Travel arrangements to the USA are your responsibility. Hocking College is located approximately 70 miles east of Columbus on State route 33. The campus is located in the heart of Wayne National Forest, at the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains.
Most international students arrive at the Columbus International Airport (CMH) and have made arrangements with International Student Services to be picked up- seven (7) days' notice is required.
To make transportation arrangements to campus, email Karen Stalder or fax (740-753-5287) your flight details and arrival time at Columbus. Upon arrival, wait at the information desk in the baggage claim area of the airport. Note that there is a fee per person charge for this service.
Important Note: We do not recommend that you use alternative sources of transport to Hocking College as they are often costly and not reliable.
Step 5 - Attend International Student Orientation (Steps 4 - 8 in 1 day!)
Orientation for International Students is typically on Friday before classes begin. The date for your orientation is printed on the letter of acceptance you received with your I-20. Check here for a complete list of all dates for the 2004 - 2005 International Student Orientation programs.
At International Orientation, you will complete Steps 4 - 8 of getting started, all in one day! In addition to completing these steps, at orientation you will:
- Learn about Hocking College, the campus, our services and meet International Student Services personnel
- Find out about rules and regulations that need to be followed as an international student
- Receive information on obtaining a permanent social security number
- Discuss American culture and some of the problems you may encounter in your transition to the U.S.
IMPORTANT NOTE: You are REQUIRED to attend orientation. All programs begin at 8:30 a.m. promptly. Please see Karen Stalder in the Concourse in John Light Hall prior to 8:30 for directions.
Step 5 - Visit the Health Center (JL 241) for a mandatory Health Screening.
All international students must complete a mandatory health screening.
Important Note: Failure to complete the health screening upon arrival will result in notification to the International Student Services and possible cancellation of your classes for the subsequent quarter. If your classes are cancelled, you will be in violation of your immigration status.
Step 6 - Take the English Proficiency Test (if applicable).
If English is not your native tongue, you are required to take the ESL (English as a Second Language) exam at the start of your first quarter of study. If you pass the ESL exam, you may register for a full load of regular classes. If you do not pass the ESL exam, you will be advised to register for an “English as a Second Language” course suited to your needs.
Step 7 - Meet with an Academic Advisor
Plan your first quarter of classes with an advisor. Remember- Hocking College arranges courses in “blocks”- with large class times allotted for hands-on lab experiences. It is important to work closely with your advisor to start (and stay) on track.
Step 8 - Register for Classes & Make Payment
After meeting with your advisor, you will register for your first quarter of classes.
Important Note: Tuition and all fees must be paid upon registration. There are no exceptions.
Step 9- Apply for a Social Security Number
You will need a social security number if you wish to work on or off campus, and for filing your annual Federal Income Tax Return. At International Student Orientation, you will be given information on how to obtain a social security number. You will need the following:
- Your passport
- I-94
- I-20
- TB test clearance from the Hocking College Health Center
- Letter from International Student Services
These items will be taken (in person) to the local Social Security Administration Office:
Social Security Administration
743C East State Street
Athens, Ohio 45701
Your new Social Security number will be sent to you by mail. You must report your new social security number to International Student Services.
Important Note: Your college identification number, issued at Orientation, is NOT a social security number. It can only be used on the college campus to register for classes and obtain a student identification card.
Step 10 - Enjoy- and ask for help if you need it!
We are here to help you. We understand what it is like to be away from home and in a new environment. International Student Services on the Concourse in John Light Hall is always available for assistance.
If at any time you are uncertain about your status, require assistance or have any questions, call International Student Services at 740.753.3591. Ext. 2280. Don't hesitate to ask!
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