4 Things You Need To Know - International Students

1. Have Health Insurance

Healthcare is very expensive in the United States. Having health insurance is very crucial while here. Typically as an international student your health insurance is covered under your tuition. However, you may want to double check and make sure the coverage starts as soon as you arrive in the United States.

2. Report Your Tax

You probably think because you dont make money while studying, you are not required to pay tax. While this is true, however, you still need to report “0 income” tax, and if your state imposes income tax, you need to report both state and federal tax. This might not directly affect your status, but it will be a crucial part when you later apply for a work visa or permanent residency.

3. Have a Student Advisor

This is important so you are not lost because sometimes the education system can be different between your home country and the United States. Plus point if your campus has international student services. Utilize that facility as much as you can. You can also get information regarding internships or jobs from your advisor.

4. Get Yourself Used to the System

Almost everything in the United States already has a working system, unlike say, in some developing countries. For example how to file a claim on something, how to get a phone plan, or simply how to get housing. So make sure you do your research and try to follow the system before doing something as it may be different with your home country.