Information for Current International Students
I-Connect Program for Current Students
The OISS offers I-Connect as a program to promote cultural exchange between current students at Regent University and new international students while providing them with the opportunity to build friendships and connections that will enhance global competence. For more information please click here.
International Student Handbook
The International Student Handbook will serve as a comprehensive resource guide to assist with the many questions you will have; to help familiarize you with your new home; to educate you about resources available to you; and to help with your overall adjustment to Regent and life in the United States. (For information about immigration, employment, travel, and other issues please click here).
International Restaurants and Grocery Guide
Click here for a guide to international restaurants and grocery stores in the local area.
Off-Campus Housing Guide
Some basic information concerning off-campus housing is now available in this Off-Campus Housing Guide.
International Student and Alumni Profiles
Click here for interesting profiles of current students from around the world and their unique perspectives on their academic programs and experiences at Regent.
Temperature converter
Click here for a Fahrenheit to Celsius temperature converter.
Helpful Tips and Reminders
In addition to what you'll find throughout this site, here are some helpful tips and reminders for a successful international experience at Regent:
- Remember that any and all immigration related questions must be addressed to the International Student Services Office and not to any other office on campus. This includes employment, travel, and full-time status related questions as well as questions about what you can and cannot do in the United States under Regent's I-20/DS-2019.
- Notify the OISS within 5 days of ANY CHANGES that take place in your degree program, finances, employment, address, phone number, email address, or family situation. You can contact the OISS by submitting the online Address/Information Change Form.
- Apply for I-20/DS-2019 program extension at least 30 days prior to your SEVIS I-20 or DS-2019 form expiration. If your form expires and you haven't applied for an extension, you will fall out of lawful immigration status and will have to apply for reinstatement to lawful status. This is a very lengthy and arduous process that involves work with your school, the OISS and the USCIS. Denial by the USCIS is cause for deportation, thus creating difficulties in completing your degree in the U.S.
- Participate in ISO and OISS/University-sponsored events and activities. You'll find that the relationships you develop and the fun you have will be incredibly rewarding.
- Get involved in a local church. You'll often find a home away from home in your local church, discover an extended family, and find fulfillment in serving God by serving others. The OISS keeps a database of the local and global churches. We are glad to provide you with this information.
- Get to know your neighbors. Whether you live in on campus at Regent Village or Regent Commons or off campus, don't pass up the opportunity to build relationships with those around you. Although breaking past cultural barriers might be difficult at first, you'll miss out on so much—and so will your neighbors—by staying behind closed doors.
- Ask questions. You'll often hear that there are no stupid questions. And you'll probably find out that you're not the only one with a question. Asking questions is one of the best ways to learn, both in the classroom and outside the classroom, so don't be afraid to ask when something's unclear or you're just curious.
- Ask for help. So often students wait until it's too late to ask for help. You'll find that your professors and the staff at Regent are always willing to help when there's a problem or a question. But it's your responsibility to ask; they won't come to you in most cases unless they know you need help. If you're struggling with your studies, with the English language, or with a cultural issue, find someone to talk to about it. If you don't know where to go, then start with someone in the OISS.
This list is open for additions. If you'd like to add a helpful piece of advice, just notify OISS of your suggestion.
Materials and Resources Available
For a complete list of all handouts, brochures, and information available through the Office of International Student Services, click here.
