Newly Enrolled International Students

1. Immigration reminders

If you haven’t already informed us, please email international@snow.edu and let us know when you get your student visa. We also need to ensure we have a copy of your final transcripts, plus your travel plans so we know when you will arrive in Utah.

Here are some helpful reminders to ensure you maintain your immigration status while studying at Snow College:

• Keep valid documents – passport, visas, health insurance – up to date at all times and in a secure location.
• Keep your contact details up to date in My.Snow portal.
• Get the right documents if you’re planning to work part-time on campus.
• Your course load must be a minimum of 12 credit hours per semester.
• Meet with your academic advisor regularly and keep CGE informed of any changes to your academic plans (degree choice, transfer universities in your consideration list to complete your bachelor's degree, etc.).
• Inform us of any plans you may have to leave the country.

Stay connected with these two key departments

The Center for Global Engagement (CGE) is here for your admissions and immigration needs. Meanwhile, you'll work with the Academic Advising department for your education plans, class schedules, graduation path, and any other support you may require to help you stay on track academically.

Meeting with an Academic Advisor is about so much more than simply registering for classes. They can help you:

• Learn about higher education in the United States.
• Plan your classes to get the best schedule.
• Understand which classes qualify for an associate or bachelor degree.

The Academic Advising team at Snow College also knows about degree programs across the state of Utah. What does that mean for you?

• You’ll come to Snow College to work on your general education classes.
• You will have smaller classes and lower tuition.
• After graduation, you can transfer easily to the four-year institution of your choice with the solid foundation you need to focus on your major.

2. Important dates

Choosing your arrival date

You cannot enter the U.S. on your F-1 visa earlier than 30 days before your program start date shown on your I-20 or DS-2019. If you arrive earlier than 30 days beforehand, you may be denied entry to the United States.

Please be sure to arrive in time to attend International Student Orientation, which is mandatory! If your schedule prevents you from attending Orientation, you must notify our office immediately. If you do not make arrangements with us in advance, you will be charged a fee of $75 and possibly void your admission to Snow College.

3. What to pack

What should you bring to America as an international student?

Upon immediate arrival at a U.S. port of entry

We've compiled a helpful list below so you can be fully prepared. The Student Visa page of the U.S. government website also contains information on what to expect when you land in the U.S. at the port of entry. Make sure you carry all of your important documents in your hand luggage on board the airplane. Do not put them in a checked bag.

Upon arrival, you will need to present your passport, visa, and Form I-20 to a U.S. Customs and Border Protection official representative. It is important that you tell the officer that you will be a student at Snow College. They will make a decision to either permit or deny you admission to the United States.

It is a good idea to make at least two copies of all your travel and immigration documents—one copy to leave with your family before you depart your home country and one copy to show US officials at the border and also bring to Snow College’s Center of Global Engagement in Utah. After arriving in the United States, make sure to keep the originals of all documentation in a safe, secure location.

See below for a helpful list of what to carry on board the plane and what to pack in your checked suitcase.

Learn more about our location and things to see and do in Utah

Now that you’ve taken care of the administrative paperwork, packing, and finances, let’s move ahead to the fun stuff!

4. International Student Orientation

What can you expect during your first week at Snow College?

There are three main ways we help you get ready for life as a student in Utah.

1. Online Pre-Arrival

To help you get ready for life at Snow, we have created an Online Pre-Arrival Course. We talk about everything from culture shock to getting help in classes. Jump into the online course and start preparing now!

2. In-Person International Orientation

In addition to info sessions covering important topics on academics and maintaining your immigration status, there’s also plenty of fun activities and opportunities to meet new friends such as campus tours, contests, prize giveaways, group photos and lots of free food!

Here are some of the things we will cover in our Mandatory In-Person Orientation:

• Immigration: We will verify all your information in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) and talk about how to maintain your non-immigrant status.
• Campus Services and Resources: You will find out how Snow supports you every step of the way, from the Disability Services Office to the Student Connection Center, we have what you need to be successful.
• Medical Systems and Insurance: It's important for you know how to get help in case you get sick or need assistance.
• Payments: Don't forget that students must pay the remaining balance of the first semester's tuition and fees on their account or set up a monthly payment plan within 5 calendar days from the first day of class. We will show you how to look at your bill and make sure everything is set up correctly.
• Class Registration: If you haven't registered for classes and ordered books by now, then this is your chance to meet with an Academic Advisor, take any required English or math placement exams and make sure your schedule aligns with your academic plans. International students are required by government regulations to enroll in at least 12 credits each semester. Remember, this is also a great time to try something new while you also focus on classes connected to your major.
• Settling In: During Orientation, you will also have time to ask for advice regarding opening a U.S. bank account, getting a Social Security Number and filing taxes. One more tip: see our FAQs for information on these topics and much more.
• Getting Involved: You'll also learn about the wide variety of student clubs at Snow College and you'll be able to sign up for notifications for guided trips during Orientation, which help you experience the beauty and grandeur of Utah’s mountains and deserts firsthand. These are also excellent ways to get comfortable in your new home and make new friends.

Finally, don't forget to join our WhatsApp group to meet other new international students and stay informed. Plus, follow us on Instagram for tips and event alerts.

3. First Year Experience

This is where it all comes together! During the First Year Experience program, all new international students will integrate with domestic students who are also starting at Snow (sometimes called "freshman"). The program is packed with fun activities, specifically designed to help you meet as many new people as possible.

5. Summer plans

Your first year at Snow is going to be amazing! As summer rolls around, there are several options for you to consider as a continuing student. For example:

• After your first semester, you are eligible to study abroad. You can participate in a study abroad program over the summer to earn credits and experience a new culture. In fact, if you’re planning to transfer to one of our partner universities after you earn your associate degree, you can weave in a study abroad program before you begin your bachelor’s. Tip: If summer isn't viable, don't worry - you can also study abroad during winter and spring breaks.
• Get a summer job and keep it for Year 2. Please note: You will need a Social Security Number for employment. See our FAQs to learn how to get one.
• Take classes during the summer. Many students choose to enroll in a few classes over the summer break, either in person or online. Just make sure you enroll early enough to ensure your place is secure.

Here’s why summer classes are great:

• Tuition fees are lower.
• Class sizes are even smaller during summer since there are fewer students enrolled.
• By not having a full class schedule, it gives you some extra free time to relax and enjoy a well-earned break exploring the beautiful national and state parks in Utah. Alternatively, you could pick up a part-time job to earn some extra money for the school year, or learn a new hobby, sport, or get your U.S. driving license. Tip: See our FAQs to learn how.
• If you’re struggling with a certain subject, you might find that taking just one class during summer lets you concentrate without the distraction of other coursework.
• Summer can also be a great time to finetune your English language skills.

Final reminder: If you leave Ephraim during the summer, you must be back before the next semester starts in order to ensure a smooth start to your next academic term and to remain in good standing with U.S. Immigration. See our Academic Calendar here.