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International Student Services

International education at Cornell has its roots in a long-standing tradition of foreign student enrollment. The first international student matriculated in 1887; today Cornell alumni represent nearly 50 countries outside the United States.

Current international students at Cornell represent several countries. Swelling the ``international student'' ranks at Cornell are many U.S. students who study and travel abroad each year or who choose foreign languages and cultures as their primary field of interest.

New international students enrolling in Term One of the academic year are provided a short homestay in the local community and a special orientation preceding the regular orientation for all new students. In addition, each international student is assigned an academic advisor who has a special interest and experience in working with international students. Incoming international students whose native language is not English may study English as a Second Language for up to four terms of full academic credit before beginning their regular academic coursework (see English as a Second Language).

Almost all Cornell students, including international students, live in the Cornell residence halls (see Contemporary Campusand Student Life). The Director of Residence Life attempts to pair international students with U.S. students who have an interest in having an international roommate. Residence hall staff participate in special training programs aimed at increasing cross-cultural sensitivity. International students may also apply for hall staff positions.

The Admissions Office and Office of Intercultural Life assist international students in matters related to the U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) and their F-1 visa status. Official forms and current information are available from those offices.

International students with the legal status of aliens, including those students with the non-immigrant status of either F or B, must maintain their legal status in order to be permitted to continue to enroll in courses at Cornell College. Students who are in the process of changing status must have received approval, or reasonable assurance of obtaining approval, before enrolling in courses at Cornell. The burden of proof rests with the student. Reasonable proof of filing may include a statement from INS that the forms are being processed or a registered mail receipt showing that INS has received the forms. If an application for reinstatement of status is denied by INS, the College may terminate the student's enrollment at any time. The Assistant Dean of Students/Director of Intercultural Life is the Designated School Official authorized to act on behalf of Cornell in immigration matters.

In cooperation with the Dean of Students Office and the Business and Registrar's Offices, staff in the Office of Intercultural Life advise and assist international students in communications with home governments and educational and sponsoring agencies. They also assist with other personal and academic concerns when requested.

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