International Student Policy

Issued By: Standing International Committee  
Approved By: President's Staff 
Effective Date: October 26, 1992 
Revised: February 1993, October 1994, November 1996, March 1997, March 1999, April 1999, April 2000, December 2004, September 2005, August 2006,  December 2007, May 2008, February 2012, November 2012,  October 2014 and September 2015.

The College of St. Scholastica has established these policies to oversee the needs of the international students. 

I) Admission of International Students 

The Admissions Office will handle all international contacts and undergraduate applications. See section III for responsibilities of the Admissions Office. 

A) Undergraduate Admission Requirements: 

  • International students are students who wish to pursue an academic program or degree at the College of St. Scholastica and are in the United States on an educational immigration status of F-1 or J-1 visa. These students are not citizens, permanent residents or refugees in the United States.  

Admission requirements for international students are as follows:

  1. a completed College of St. Scholastica International Student application that includes a written essay
  2. a $50 (U.S. dollars) nonrefundable application fee; 
  3. original or certified copies of all secondary and post-secondary course transcripts, in English or with English translation. Students must have completed a college preparatory program in secondary school. This program should include coursework in the humanities, laboratory sciences, mathematics, social sciences and history. Applicants must have ranked in the top one-third of their secondary school class
  4. TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) test scores, including the TWE (Test of Written English) essay rating. A score of 550 on the written test, score of 213 on the computer-based test or a score of 79 on the iBT TOEFL test or a four on the TWE essay rating are required for admission. The British International English Test (IELTS), will also be acceptable, a minimum score of 6.5 is required for admission
  5. a completed "Certification of Finances" form (included in the application packet)  – with certification from sponsor’s bank or additional financial documentation, in English or with English translations
  6. an affidavit of support (USCIS Form I-134) for students with U.S. sponsors
  7. a complete health record including all immunizations, in English or with English translation
  8. a photocopy of the first page (name-page) of the student’s passport which includes the applicant’s photo.

These materials must be received no later than 90 days prior to the beginning of fall or spring semester.

As required by the U.S. Department of State, international students must demonstrate that they have access to adequate funds to meet their educational and personal expenses while attending college in the U.S. The College of St. Scholastica requires a $500 tuition deposit before issuing the I-20 A-B form. Upon acceptance to the College, and receipt of the initial deposit ($500), the associate director of admissions will issue the I-20 A-B form, allowing the student to apply for a visa to enter the U.S.

B) The Graduate Admissions Office will handle all international contacts and graduate applications. See section III for responsibilities of the Graduate Admissions Office

Graduate Admission Requirements:

  1. Complete College of St. Scholastica Graduate Application form and specific departmental requirements.
  2. If transcripts are international, the student must have earned the US equivalency of a bachelor’s degree, and must submit:
    • ECE or WES Course-by-Course Evaluation: at applicant’s expense, original sent from company, completed within two years of application.
    • Certified or notarized copy of official transcript or verified transcript from ECE or WES.
    • Certified or notarized copy of English translation of transcript.
    • Note: International Baccalaureate transcripts HL 4&5 credits are accepted.
  3. Submit additional requirements, based on the applicant’s citizenship/visa status:

Student Visa (F or J visas only; CSS cannot accept M visas):

These materials must be received no later than 90 days prior to the beginning of the semester:

  • Notarized copy of passport.  A photocopy of the first page (name-page) of the student’s passport which includes the applicant’s photo.
  • J visas (sponsored) must submit: 
    • Notarized copy of visa.
    • An affidavit of support (USCIS Form I-134) for students with U.S. sponsors: http://www.uscis.gov/portal/site/uscis/menuitem.5af9bb95919f35e66f614176543f6d1a/?vgnextoid=fe3647a55773d010VgnVCM10000048f3d6a1RCRD&vgnextchannel=25fb1a3d215a3210VgnVCM100000b92ca60aRCRD.  
    • If applicant’s primary language is not English:
      • TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) test scores, including the TWE (Test of Written English) essay rating. A score of 550 on the written test, score of 213 on the computer-based test or a score of 79 on the iBT TOEFL test or a four on the TWE essay rating are required for admission. The British International English Test (IELTS), will also be acceptable, a minimum score of 6.5 is required for admission; 
    • A completed "Certification of Finances" form– with certification from sponsor’s bank or additional financial documentation, in English or with English translations showing evidence of adequate funds to cover one year’s tuition. 
    • A complete health record including all immunizations, in English or with an English translation.


UPON ACCEPTANCE:

  • Make a minimum deposit of US $500, which will be credited towards fees and tuition. As required by the U.S. Department of State, international students must demonstrate that they have access to adequate funds to meet their educational and personal expenses while attending college in the U.S. The College of St. Scholastica requires a $500 tuition deposit before issuing the I-20 A-B form. Upon acceptance to the College, and receipt of the initial deposit ($500), the Director of Recruitment will issue the I-20 A-B form, allowing the student to apply for a visa to enter the U.S.
  • Submit documentation of enrollment in a current private or national health insurance plan which is valid in the U.S. or enrollment in a St. Scholastica health insurance plan. (Not applicable to online studies).


C) International First Year Development Admission 

  • International applicants who do not meet the international admission requirements, but who appear to be capable of academic success at The College of St. Scholastica, can be admitted under International First Year Development Program (FYDP). Applicants may be admitted if their TOEFL ibt score under 79 written test score is between 540 and 549 and computer test score between 207 and 212.  International applicants to the FYDP program follow the same application process as followed by traditional applicants, which requires: 
    • Completion of the special status self-assessment form. 
    • Two letters of recommendation from a current or former teacher to assess academic ability and potential for success in college. 
    • An evaluation/recommendation form written by the responsible admissions representative. 
    • An interview with the director of academic support services will not be possible in most cases involving international students. In lieu of an interview, the international admissions representative will have a conversation with the  director of academic support services to explain and help assess the situation, including the reason for the special status request. The director of academic support services then submits a recommendation. 
    • The Admissions committee then reviews the file and all FYDP applications. Each member votes to a) accept, b) accept on special status (which is a full acceptance to the college, but flags the student for academic support services), 
    • or decline admission. The decision of the committee is final and not open to appeal.
  • Also, students who do not meet Scholastica’s admissions requirements have the option to take ESL course work through Global Language Institute (GLI).  The Admissions Department has more information regarding GLI.

D) Acceptance 

  1. The registrar’s office will assist with translating and evaluating transcripts.
  2. For undergraduate students, the vice president for enrollment management makes the admission decision. The admissions committee will review any applications not meeting criteria. The decision of the committee is final and not open to appeal.
  3. For graduate students admission decisions are made by the department’s admission committee. The decision of this committee may be appealed. 
  4. Upon the applicant's acceptance by the College and receipt of the initial deposit, the relevant DSO will issue the SEVIS 1-20-A form, allowing the student to apply for a visa (or in the case of Canadian students, enter the United States). 
  5. In cases where the applicant is an undergraduate transfer student the Office of International Programs (OIP) will be informed by an Admissions representative once a transfer application is received. The OIP will then contact the ISAat the college that the student is transferring from to ensure that the student is ‘in status’. Confirmation of the student being in status is given to the Admissions representative. Within two business days the applicant will be accepted to the college and their file given to the St. Scholastica OIP. Once the ‘Transfer release’ date has passed the St. Scholastica OIP will prepare the transfer I-20-A and forward this directly to the student.


E) International Baccalaureate (IB) & Advanced Placement (AP)

  1. Students who have been formally admitted to The College of St. Scholastica may petition for up to four transfer credits for each International Baccalaureate (113) course completed with a Higher Level examination grade of four or above on a seven point scale. The related academic department at the College will determine whether or not a course is acceptable. 
  2. To petition for credit, students must submit a written request to the registrar, a certificate for each completed IB Exam and a course syllabus for each course. The certificate will be copied and returned to the student. Documentation on an official transcript will also be accepted.
  3. The College participates in the Advanced Placement Program of The College Board. Advanced placement or college credit is given to qualified students on the basis of these examinations. In order to receive credit a student must receive an Advanced Placement score of three, four or five.    

F) Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)

  1. Designated School Officials (DSOs) are persons identified by the College as having the authority to sign official SEVIS forms as representatives of the College. DSOs at The College of St. Scholastica include: the registrar, one of the vice presidents, the Director of Academic Advisement, one admissions applications support staff, the Associate Director of Admissions, the Graduate Recruitment Counselor and the Administrative Assistant to the Dean of Students.
  2. The immigration law of 1996 has serious implications for all international students. The Office of International Programs will be responsible to communicate the changes to all current international students. The Admissions Office will be responsible for educating and updating all incoming students on the possible implications of the immigration law. 

            
G) Financial Requirements 

  1. International students attending The College of St. Scholastics are required to have documentation demonstrating the resources to cover college expenses. St. Scholastica requires: 
    • A deposit of $500 within 30 days of acceptance.
  2. Tuition and other fees are due two weeks prior to the beginning of a term. Students requiring more financial flexibility must make alternative arrangements through the One Stop Student Services. A payment plan allowing for monthly or semester payments can be arranged, provided the College has the necessary documentation demonstrating ability to pay. 
  3. International Students will be required to pay in full any amount due to the college at the end of each academic year.  In the eventuality that this is not possible, students are required to work with a One Stop Student Services representative to finalize payment on the account.

H) Health Insurance

International Students are required have health insurance in accordance with the college policy:

Student insurance is mandatory for all international students (undergraduate or graduate) regardless of number of credits enrolled, except for student athletes and other students given permission to waive the college insurance.   

  1. The completion of the Student Insurance Waiver & Verification Form is required as proof of other health coverage. 
  2. The OIP will review the students waiving the college health insurance to ensure that students who have waived are student athletes or have prior approval to waive the insurance. 


I) International Student Orientation

  1. All International students are required to attend the International Orientation scheduled by the OIP.
  2. Students arriving to start fall semester will be given options of days to arrive on campus. Canadian and transfer students will be given separate arrival times, since they are not required to attend all of orientation.
  3. Students arriving for spring semester will be given optional arrival days and a complete but condensed orientation.
  4. A fee of $100 will be charged to any student who arrives late, does not attend or skips part of Orientation (after having arrived on campus).
  5. International Orientation will cover:
    • Immigration definitions and regulations including; staying in status, travel authorization, document renewal and upkeep and off campus employment.
    • Health Insurance information and policies
    • Academics, including; US Academic system, expectations of students, the role of the Academic Advisor and academic services, tutoring etc.
    • Social and Cultural Issues; Communication styles, Values, Social Contact, Housing and Relationships.
    • Services on campus; meet representatives of key departments e.g. One Stop, Financial Aid, Library, Student Health Services etc.
    • Registration for classes (if not already accomplished)
    • Banking and Financial Workshop
    • Trips to the Mall, Banks and the Social Security Office
    • Local information related to services (shopping etc.)
    • Other related topics (as deemed appropriate by the Director)

J) Policy for international students living on/off campus

  1. The college policy states that all students (domestic and international) are required to live on campus their freshman and sophomore year, unless students are granted an exemption by the Residential Life/Housing office (or if the student is granted permission to live off campus by Admissions upon their acceptance to St. Scholastica). International students are expected to live on campus for their entire time at CSS as an undergraduate student. 
  2. Due to this collegiate expectation, international students are guaranteed on campus housing. International students do not receive priority in the housing lottery or priority access in housing placement. All international students should participate in the on-campus housing lottery process unless they have received prior approval to live off campus. Students are subject to the Residential Life/Housing office rules, guidelines and expectations. If a student signs a housing agreement, they are subject to the rules of that agreement, or breaking of that agreement.
  3. If an international student wishes to live off campus after their sophomore year they need to meet with Alison Champeaux, Director of International Programs and must complete a housing exemption form. This will be reviewed by the Housing Exemption Committee, coordinated by the Dean of Students, Megan Perry-Spears. Students may not be able to move off campus, so requests may be denied. In addition, if a student has signed a housing contract for the academic year and wants to move off campus the student will be subject to Residential Life/Housing office rules. Alison Champeaux is unable to exempt students from any Residential Life/Housing office rules or documents signed.
  4. The decision made by the Housing Exemption committee is final and not subject to appeal. If a student’s request to live off campus is denied they may request to live off campus again after one semester has passed from the original request. Students who have been granted permission to live off campus in the past (by a decision at the time of admission or in accordance with previous policies) may continue to live off campus while they are a St. Scholastica undergraduate. Once an international student is granted the exemption to move off campus, that student will no longer be guaranteed on-campus housing if they were to choose to return to campus.  International students in this situation will participate in the lottery and wait list system as with any other student.

 
II. International Student Financial Aid Policies and Procedures 


A.

  1. Graduate students
    • No tuition scholarships are available for graduate students 
  2. Extended Studies Students
    • No tuition scholarships are available for Extended Studies students at any site.
  3. Online Students
    • No tuition scholarships are available for online students.


B. St. Scholastica International Undergraduate Student Scholarships are awarded as follows:

  1. Criterion considered when choosing scholarship recipients include: 
    • The student's ability to contribute to cultural diversity at St. Scholastica. 
    • The student's goals in relation to the mission of the College, 
    • The student's having a United States or international financial sponsor who agrees to cover all expenses in excess of College funding (sponsors must document sources of funding and willingness to fully support the student). 
    • Demonstrated financial need.
    • Demonstrated academic success and ability.
    • The student is applying as an undergraduate student.
  2. These scholarships will be renewable on an annual basis for up to three additional years, provided the students abide by the following guidelines. 

Academic Requirements:

Make satisfactory academic progress at their scholarship level.

  •   Students receiving a scholarship at 90 percent of tuition or above must maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.50 each semester or the minimum for his/her desired degree program (which may be higher).
  •   Students receiving 50 - 89 percent level or less must maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.0 each semester or the minimum for his/her desired degree program (which may be higher)
  •   Students not receiving a scholarship from St. Scholastica must maintain a GPA of at least 2.0 (or above if required by their scholarship) or the minimum for his/her desired degree program (which may be higher).

 (For information on the scholarship renewal process, see below).

Non-Academic Requirements:

  • Meaningfully participate in at least two student clubs or organizations per year (any college club or organization, including intercollegiate sports, service organizations, departmental/major clubs, residence hall organizations, student government, etc.). 
  • Be required to live on campus and need to apply to live off campus through Alison Champeaux (see page six above for policy).
  • Participate in a minimum of two Office of International Programs events, workshops or presentations per academic year (or events approved by OIP).
  • Meet with Alison Champeaux, Director, International Programs once in fall semester and once in spring semester. (New students meet with Alison twice their first semester – the first meeting must occur in the first six weeks of that semester).


Renewal of Scholarships:

  • Review of scholarships based on academic requirements will be assessed each semester. Once grades and GPA’s are available, the Director, International Programs will convene a meeting with the International Committee. If a student’s cumulative GPA is deficient he/she will receive one semester of probation of their scholarship status. If a student is receiving a 50 percent scholarship and they are not meeting standards after a second semester, their scholarship may be removed. If a student is receiving any scholarship level above 50 percent, their scholarship level will be lowered to 50 percent and then be required to maintain a GPA standard for that scholarship level. Students not meeting the GPA standard for their scholarship level will be informed by the Committee of their status, in writing, for the following semester.
  • Non-academic scholarship requirements are reviewed at the end of each academic year.  Student’s compliance with these requirements will be tracked through the OIP office. The OIP office will confirm and track attendance at meetings with Alison Champeaux. It is the student’s responsibility to confirm and provide evidence of attendance at approved events and the OIP office will track this attendance for their scholarship requirements. 
  • Failure to meet non-academic standards may result in probationary status of a student’s scholarship for one semester. After this period the International Committee will determine if the student shall continue to receive a scholarship at the same level, reduced level or have the scholarship removed.
  • Students may appeal decisions with regard to their scholarship status change in writing within two weeks of written communication from the International Committee. Appeals should be addressed to the International Committee and sent to the Director, International Programs. The International Committee will meet and may invite the student to speak in front of the committee. Decisions made by the International Committee in appeals proceedings are final.


Completion of degree in shorter period than four years; 

It is the expectation of the International Committee and the College of St. Scholastica that student’s will graduate upon meeting the requirements to complete their intended major or degree program. 


Changes to scholarships;

  • International student scholarships are awarded for four years, or until the completion of the student’s degree program (whichever is shorter). Students’ scholarships are not changed based on obtaining a higher GPA requirement than their scholarship requires. 
  • If a student has maintained full-time status and satisfactory academic progress and is unable to complete their degree within four years, the student can apply to the International Committee for an extension of scholarship. The Committee will review the circumstances on an individual basis and make recommendations to the Vice President for Enrollment Management. 


III. Financial Assistance for International Students

A.  Global Benedictine Scholarship – 50%

  1. In order to increase international diversity on the campus, the President's Staff authorized a 50 percent tuition reduction for international students in good academic standing who wish to attend the College but cannot afford to pay the full price of tuition.  
  2. Applicants must document their need for special financial assistance and demonstrate strong academic achievement.  
  3. Students receiving this scholarship are eligible to receive the scholarship up until all Bachelor degree requirements are fulfilled. For example if a student has completed his/her degree requirements after 3 years, they are expected to graduate and are not able to receive a 4th year of scholarship.
  4. Currently there is no limit on the number of 50 percent scholarships that can be awarded to international students.  Decisions are made by the Vice President of Enrollment Management.

B. Global Benedictine Scholarship – 90%

  1. In 2001 the College established a special scholarship program for academically qualified students who lack the financial resources to afford a St. Scholastica education. This scholarship also supports the applications from students who will offer the College geographic, ethnic and cultural diversity as well as student leadership skills.
  2. The program provides for a 90 percent tuition-free education at the College.  The student must agree to defray the remaining 10 percent of tuition through engaging in a work-study program on campus.  
  3. Students applying for competitive programs (for example Nursing and Physical Therapy) are not eligible for this scholarship.
  4. Students receiving this scholarship are eligible to receive the scholarship up until all Bachelor degree requirements are fulfilled. For example if a student has completed his/her degree requirements after 3 years, they are expected to graduate and are not able to receive a 4th year of scholarship.
  5. The recipients of this special award must also agree to live on campus and pay their own room and board charges along with meeting their own personal expenses. Exceptions to this provision will be addressed through the Admissions department prior to the arrival of the student or through the International Committee after the arrival of the student.
  6. Decisions on the award of the 90/10 scholarships are made by an ad hoc College committee appointed by the Vice-President for Enrollment Management.  The committee meets in March.  

C. Colegio Santa Francisca Romana Scholarship 

  1. This scholarship is made available by The College of St. Scholastica for South American students established through an agreement with Sr. Tierney Truernan and the Sisters of St. Frances at Colegio Santa Francisca Romana in Bogotá, Colombia. 
  2. This scholarship covers all but 20 percent of tuition. Students are responsible for any additional expenses, including room and board. This scholarship is made available for the first semester at St. Scholastica. 
  3. Students receiving this scholarship are required to live on campus and to take part in at least two student activities. 
  4. In the event the student chooses to continue his/her education at The College of St. Scholastica after the first semester, he/she will then be eligible to apply for the St. Scholastica International Student Scholarship (see III. B. above).   
  5. Only two students are allowed to be registered at the College at one time through this scholarship.

D. Irish Tuition Discount 

  1. A 90 percent tuition discount is available for up to two Irish students. These tuition scholarships are renewable for three additional years provided the student is making satisfactory academic progress. The Irish tuition discount is limited to two discounts at any one time. Preference is given to students from County Mayo (the host county for The College of St. Scholastica Study Abroad Center). 
  2. Irish tuition discount students will be eligible for student employment under the same guidelines as all other (90 percent tuition discounted) international undergraduate students. 

E. Northern Ireland/ Study USA 

  1. Study USA, Department of Employment and Learning, a branch of the British Council of Northern Ireland selects qualified students from Northern Ireland universities to participate in their United States cultural immersion program. Study USA is a collaborative effort among churches and Irish civil organizations to afford Northern Ireland University students the opportunity to study in the United States. Students gain useful knowledge of business practices in the U.S. Contributing to the peace process in Northern Ireland through cultural exchange experiences which is another important objective of this program. Participating churches and civic organizations include the Presbyterian Church; Association of Catholic Colleges and Universities; United Methodist- related Schools, Colleges and Universities, The Association of Episcopal Colleges; International Fund for Ireland; and the EU Special Support Program for Peace and Reconciliation.
  2. The College of St. Scholastica participates in this program by sponsoring two full tuition scholarships for students selected to attend by the Study USA program. The students must apply and meet admission standards to be accepted, all non-tuition expenses (room, board, book and personal expenses) are covered by Study USA. 

F. Ryan Rothstein Scholarship 

    This scholarship is available to both undergraduate and graduate international students.

  1. This scholarship is made available through the generosity of the Nancy and John Ryan and the Jean (Ryan) Rothstein families. It was created to assist international students experiencing financial hardship. This scholarship may also be given to a student from northeastern Minnesota if it is not needed by an international student. 
  2. The Ryan Rothstein Scholarship may be divided among several students or awarded to a single student, and the amount to be awarded varies yearly. 
  3. Recommendations for this award are made by the International Committee each April.
  4. Students apply for this scholarship by writing a letter addressed to the International Student Advisor explaining their financial circumstances and the ways in which the scholarship will help them to reach their goals. 
  5. An award letter is issued by the Financial Aid office to recipients of this scholarship with a request to write a thank you letter to the Ryan and Rothstein families. The Director, International Programs informs students in writing if they are not recipients of this scholarship.

G. Petrozavodsk Exchange Program 

This program awards two full-time tuition scholarships for one term of study. Students awarded the Petrozavodsk Tuition Scholarship are eligible for up to 10 hours per week of student employment, provided there are positions available. This program is coordinated by the peace and justice director at St. Scholastica. 


H. WASIE Foundation scholarships

Any student who is of 100 percent, documented, Polish decent is eligible to apply for the full tuition, room and board scholarship.  Scholarships are offered on a yearly basis. This scholarship has its own standards for renewal and recipients of this scholarship are not subject to the conditions in II. B. 2. above.  As of August 2009, this scholarship is not available until further notice. 

I. Student Employment – on campus

  1. International students are eligible for on-campus employment as stated in the U.S. Code of Federal Regulations: 8 CFR 214.2(f) for international students. Students are eligible (per regulations) for up to 20 hours per week of student employment during the school year if positions and hours are available. 
  2. International Students are eligible for up to 40 hours of student employment per pay week, as stated in the above noted Federal Regulation, during the summer and other school breaks, (the breaks approved for full-time are; winter, spring and summer breaks only) if the hours are available. 
  3. Currently, the College of St. Scholastica is able to offer a maximum of 10 hours per week to freshmen students and 15 hours per week of work to sophomore to senior students who have made every attempt to secure and maintain employment. Students who are not awarded on campus employment as part of their scholarship are placed on a waiting list for work, administered by the Student Employment Coordinator. There is no guarantee of on campus employment availability.

    J. Student Employment – off campus

  1. International students are eligible for off-campus employment as stated in K.1 above. Students are eligible to work up to 20 hours a week during the semester and 40 hours a week during the semester breaks.
  2. International students wanting to work off campus must work with the OIP to complete the appropriate paperwork.
  3. In the case of Curricular Practical Training (CPT) this is the preferred option for students to work off campus either during the semester or for the semester breaks as there is no fee associated with this application. In order to complete this process students are required to register for a minimum of 1 credit in order to meet the terms of CPT. 
  4. Currently the College of St. Scholastica has agreed to waive the tuition for this 1 credit class with the requirement that this is only for international students and only for the summer break. 

IV. Responsibilities 

A) Undergraduate Admissions Office

The admissions office will be responsible for: 

  1. Responding to all international undergraduate inquiries. This includes updating application materials each year. 
  2. Processing all international applications and initiate transcript evaluations.
  3. Providing visa and immigration information, as well as a representative serving as a designated school official (DSO). 
  4. Providing updates to applicants regarding admission procedures, scholarship availability and academic programs.
  5. Coordinating with the Financial Aid Office if a student is applying for an international student scholarship. 
  6. Coordinating the transition to the OIP for orientation. 
  7. Keeping the College community informed of recruitment and retention strategies and presenting recommendations for international admission policy changes. 
  8. Overseeing admissions procedures, including admission requirements. 
  9. Coordinate reception of housing contracts from international students and forward contracts to the Housing office.

B) Graduate Admissions Office 

The graduate admissions office will be responsible for: 

  1. Responding to all international graduate inquiries. This includes updating application materials each year.
  2. Processing all international applications and initiate transcript evaluations.
  3. Providing visa and immigration information, as well as representatives serving as designated school officials (DSOs). 
  4. Providing updates to applicants regarding admission procedures, scholarship availability and academic programs.
  5. Coordinating with the Financial Aid Office if a student is applying for loans or the Canadian Exchange Discount. 
  6. Coordinate the scheduling of the international student orientation, registration with the program advisor and graduate orientation. 
  7. Keeping the College community informed of recruitment and retention strategies and presenting recommendations for international admission policy    changes. 
  8. Overseeing admissions procedures, including admission requirements.
  9. Coordinate reception of housing contracts from International students and forward contracts to the undergraduate admission office to process.
  10. Send all international student immunizations directly to on campus Health Center as soon as the student has made a deposit to the College.
  11. Refer students to housing agencies for off-campus housing. 
  12. Work with the Director, International Programs on any student issues.

C) Academic Support Services Office

    The Academic Support Services will be responsible for:

  1. Assisting international students with online class registration before and after arriving in the US, prior to Orientation.
  2. Providing Academic Advisement.
  3. Assisting students with an understanding of transfer credit and how those credits meet graduation, major and general education requirements. 
  4. Providing general tutoring services.
  5. Providing accommodations for learning and/or physical disabilities.
  6. Providing study skills assistance.
  7. Assisting probationary students with learning contracts.
  8. Identifying high risk students and offer support services.

D) Registrar’s Office

    The Registrar will be responsible for:

  1. The registrar will be responsible for interpreting transcripts and providing transcript evaluations. 
  2. Maintain official and original documentation such as applications, transcript, TOEFL scores and ACT/SAT scores.
  3. Coordinate with the Director, International Programs on reporting requirements and international student statistics. 
  4. Work with the Office of International Programs on Open Doors Reporting.

E) Financial Aid Office

The Financial Aid Director will be responsible for: 

  1. Awarding all international financial aid. 
  2. Maintaining appropriate paperwork and documentation for financial aid eligibility requirements of the federal government. 
  3. Monitoring and awarding financial aid for other international programs.
  4. Advise the Director, International Programs of changes to international student funding.

The Student Employment Coordinator will be responsible for:

  1. Monitoring employment positions in which International Students are working.
  2. Act as liaison between Supervisors, International Students and the Director, International Programs.
  3. Maintain records of students social security number, employment records and payroll information.
  4. Advertise and communicate with students regarding available positions on campus.

E) One Stop Student Services 

The One Stop Student Services representative is responsible for: 

  1. Advising the student of departmental procedures concerning fee statements, payment plans, statements of account, insurance, maintaining a current address, and payment responsibility. 
  2. Coordinating any wire transactions from international banks. 
  3. Reviewing on a monthly and/or semester basis the account of each international student to verify payments and alert students of unpaid balances.
  4. Director, International Programs liaise with the Office of International Programs to ensure that all international students have chosen either college health plan or waived college insurance.
  5. Assist in securing a Health Insurance policy for students and work with the Health Insurance provider to obtain the best policy available. 
  6. Inform the Director, International Programs of any international student financial issues or hardship.


F) Residential Life/Housing

The Residential Life representative will be responsible for:

  1. Work with international students to assess housing needs
  2. Work with international students on room-mate or Residential Advisor issues.
  3. Work with Residential Advisors to meet the specific needs of international residents.
  4. Work on providing services to students on campus, for example equipped kitchens to cook during breaks.
  5. Inform the Director, International Programs of concerns regarding international students housing issues.
  6. Work with the Director, International Programs on guaranteed housing for international students that wish to live on campus.

G) Student Health Services

The Student Health Services representative will:

  1. Advise international students of Health Insurance coverage under the college policy and address concerns regarding insurance.
  2. Direct international students to appropriate services on and off campus.
  3. Ensure compliance with Immunization policy and coordinate with the Admissions office on receipt of Immunization documents as outlined in I. A. 7. above.
  4. Advocate for Health Insurance needs for international students.
  5. Work with One Stop Student Services representatives and Health Insurance company representatives to ensure adequate coverage for students.
  6. Inform the Director, International Programs of any medical bills or serious health concerns regarding international students, if allowed or requested by student.

H) Primary Designated School Official (PDSO)

The PDSO is the primary college official responsible for immigration regulations on campus, as recognized by the SEVP. The PDSO responsibilities are:

  1. Maintain I-17, Petition for Approval of School for Attendance by Nonimmigrant Students.
  2. Review alerts on the SEVIS database.
  3. Oversee all ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) and SEVP (Student Exchange Visitor Program) audits and site visits.
  4. Respond to all requests for information or inquiries from ICE.
  5. Conduct training for DSO’s 
  6. Ensure departments are working together to meet the immigration requirements as stated in the Code of Federal Regulations pertaining to international students.
  7. Advise all international students with regard to immigration regulations and assist them in maintaining their F-1 student status.

I) The Office of International Programs

The OIP representative will; 

  1. Make arrangements for all incoming students from point of arrival to the College. 
  2. Conduct an international student orientation before welcome weekend in the fall semester and the start of classes in the spring semester. 
  3. Work with Academic Support Services, Admissions and the Registrar’s office to ensure students have the opportunity to register before arriving on campus.
  4. Serve as a special needs coordinator for the international students (e.g., setting up ESL tutoring). 
  5. Facilitate international student adjustment to life in the U.S. and to St. Scholastica. 
  6. Maintain membership with the NAFSA – Association of International Educators and a license for the Advisor’s Manual, provided by NAFSA.
  7. Maintain all SEVIS (Student Exchange Visitor Information System) electronic international student records through the FSA Atlas database.
  8. Maintain appropriate documentation on all international students, as stipulated by the Code of Federal Regulations, and the SEVP.
  9. Coordinate with the Housing office to make recommendations for accommodations for new international students.
  10. Work closely with representatives of departments listed in A - G above.
  11. Chair the International Committee.
  12. Manage non-academic review process for scholarships on behalf of the International Committee for all continuing international students.
  13. Inform the International Committee of relevant changes to immigration regulations that may require procedural changes by committee member’s departments.
  14. Assist new international students with applying for a social security number, state ID, and opening a bank account and applying for a drivers license.
  15. Update students on changes to immigration regulations. 
  16. Assist students with the application process for off-campus work authorization, visa renewal, change of status applications and any other appropriate assistance.
  17. Assist students with legal issues and direct them to appropriate resources if necessary
  18. Act as an advocate for international student issues and concerns. 
  19. Send all international student immunizations directly to on campus Student Health Services as soon as the student has made a deposit to the College.
  20. Approve all requests by international students to live off campus, consulting with the Dean of Students and Assistant Dean of Students for Campus Life, when necessary.

J)  Faculty Representative

The Faculty representative will:

  1. Serve as consultant related to International students’ progress at the College.
  2. Attend committee meetings and vote on decisions related to scholarships, attendance at the College, deviations from normal scholarship/attendance requirements and other matters as they may rise.
  3. Advocate for International students while upholding high academic standards and Benedictine values.
  4. Participate in revision of the International Scholarship Committee’s policies as necessary.

V. Financial Hardship

International Students should address financial concerns to the International Student Advisor. 

  1. The Director will then determine the legitimacy of any requests (made outside of the scholarship process) and will forward requests for additional funding to the International Committee either for denial or for recommendation to the Vice President of Enrollment Management.
  2. In the event that an international student is experiencing financial hardship the Director will direct the student to scholarships available, budgeting and money management resources.
  3. In the event that an international student is experiencing difficulty paying their bills due to the College the Director will work directly with the One Stop Student Services representative involved. If there is evidence of continued under or non-payment on an account the Director will convene a meeting of the International Committee to determine further action to be take and any appropriate recommendation(s) to be made to the College Administration. 

VI. Students Failing to maintain status and/or sufficient academic progress

International Students are informed at orientation of the requirements to maintain legal status in the United States on a student visa. If students are deemed to be in violation of their status the following procedures will be undertaken:

  1. The Director will meet with the international student and determine the circumstances and extent of the failure to maintain status. The Director will use the ‘International Student Agreement’ document to inform the student of their failure to maintain status and will outline steps required to be taken to rectify the situation.
  2. The Director will follow the Federal Code of Regulations and the SEVP guidelines with regard to reporting requirements of a student failing to maintain status, including in SEVIS.
  3. The Director will inform the Vice President for Student Affairs and the Dean of Students of the student’s circumstances.  If necessary the college immigration lawyer will be advised before college action is taken against a student.

VII. Disciplinary Procedures 

  1. When disciplinary action involves an international student the Vice President for Student Affairs and if necessary the Dean of students will decide any further action. This further action may include removal of the student’s scholarship.
  2. In the case of an International Committee member being aware an international student’s situation (e.g. financial non-payment) then they will inform the Director (if not already advised) who will in turn inform the Vice President for Student Affairs.
  3. If an international student is accused of a crime or other offence the Director will inform the Vice President for Student Affairs. If the international student is convicted of a crime and the Vice President for Student Affairs or Dean of Students takes disciplinary action then the Director is required to report this event in SEVIS.

Updated:  September 2015

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