Pre-Arrival & Visa Related Questions

Q: I applied to Hofstra, was accepted, and I have paid my deposit to the University, so when should I set up an appointment at the U.S. Embassy Consulate in my home country to apply for a visa?
Congratulations on your acceptance to Hofstra! This is a very exciting time to be at the University. You cannot set up your visa interview at the U.S. Consulate/Embassy until we send you your SEVIS ID Number, which will be sent to you via email when we complete your I-20 form. In addition to emailing you the SEVIS ID, we will also send you a tracking number to track the mailing progress of the I-20 form we send you. We usually utilize major companies to ship the I-20 like UPS or DHL.

Q: How long will it take to get my I-20 after I have been accepted?
Once you are accepted to Hofstra, the Admissions Office will request the necessary information for creating an I-20 form for you. Please be sure to read everything we send you prior to arrival. Due to the high amount of I-20s being created, we generally try to assure students that we will mail their I-20 out no later than 10 business days after receiving the necessary information.

Q: Are there any requirements for travel to Hofstra or can I just come to New York? What about traveling out of the United States once I am already at Hofstra?
With your initial travel to Hofstra as a new student you are only allowed to enter the United States 30 days prior to the Program Start Date on your I-20 Form. When you first enter the United States to come to Hofstra you need to bring your I-20 form, your passport, visa, and I- 94 card. These are also the things you need to keep with you each and every time you leave and then re-enter the United States. Your I-20 must have a current signature from a Designated School Official prior to travel. The process of getting a signature on your I-20 takes at least 48 hours, or two business days, so make sure you bring your I-20 to the Office of Multicultural & International Students prior to leaving the United States.

Q: Am I able to travel to the Hofstra early before classes begin to get ready for the school year?
All international students already arrive early at the university on International Students Move- in Day. All of the welcome materials we send you have your official move-in date indicated on the materials. Unfortunately, due to conferences that occur here on campus, no one is permitted to arrive on campus or move in prior to the official International Student Move-in Date. If you do arrive early there are a few hotels that we recommend in your Welcome Information that are close to campus – please know that hotels in the United States are expensive.

Arrival/Move-in/International Orientation

Q: How do I get to Hofstra University from the airport?
There are a few ways to get to Hofstra from the airport. There are local taxi cabs in the area that will be able to drive you to the campus. Furthermore, there are local trains that leave JFK airport. These trains will take you to Jamaica Station, where you will transfer to a train taking you to either one of the two local train stations near Hofstra University--Hempstead or Mineola Train Station. For specific instructions consult the materials we send with your Welcome Information.

Q: Will I be able to purchase items for my room once I arrive?
Yes, on the first night you arrive at Hofstra we take you to a large super-store near campus to purchase the necessary supplies for your housing. There are also free buses that run on the weekends from Hofstra to many local stores, such as the grocery store, movie theater, department store and the shopping mall. The bus schedule can be found on the Hofstra.edu website if you search 'bus schedule.'

Q: What will happen when I first arrive in the United States?
When you land in the United States and go through immigration/customs, you must have all of your immigration documents with you. If you are a dual citizen, or a permanent resident of the United States, you will only need to show your U.S. passport. If you are a citizen of another country, you must show the immigration officer your passport, I-20 (for J-1 students, you must show your DS-2019), visa from the U.S. Consulate, letter of acceptance to Hofstra and documentation proving your financial resources. If everything is in order, the immigration inspector will stamp the date of your arrival on your landing card and will staple a small white card, called the I-94 card, in your passport. The inspector will also return the second page of your I-20 (DS-2019 for J-1 students) form to you. This is known as the I-20 ID, and you will record all immigration transactions that pertain to you while in this country. If you encounter any problems while you are being inspected by Immigration, please contact the Multicultural & International Student Programs Office at (516) 463-6796.

Q: What do I need to do when I first arrive at Hofstra University?
Whether you are living on campus or off campus, when you arrive at Hofstra on International Student Move-in Day, we ask that you follow the directions in the Welcome Information that you receive with your I-20 and check-in with us before heading to your on-campus residence hall. You must bring your passport, visa, 1-20, and 1-94 card. We will ask you to fill out necessary documents, and we will photocopy your immigration papers. After filling out the documents, you will be taken to HofstraCard services where you will receive your Hofstra ID card. If you are living on campus, you will then be given the key to your room and escorted there by an office assistant. If you are arriving for orientation, you will be given access to your room and then join the new international students for informational sessions. If you plan on commuting to Hofstra from the local community (living off campus) then please be sure to come to International Student Move-In Day as Orientation also begins on Move-In Day.

Q: Do I have to come to Orientation? When is Orientation? How long does it last?
Orientation is MANDATORY and it is extremely beneficial event for all new international students. You will learn all you need to know about Hofstra University and its community. You will register for classes, and above all, you will make new friends from all over the world! Orientation for all incoming international students is usually the week prior to the start of classes for the fall and spring semesters. On average, International Orientation lasts for about three days out of the week and it begins on International Student Move-in Day. When you arrive at Hofstra you will receive your orientation schedule detailing the specific events which will take place during that time.

Q: How large is Hofstra University's international population?
Currently, Hofstra University's international population hosts over 600 International students, representing over 70 countries around the world. International Students add to the rich cultural diversity of the campus which is greatly celebrated at Hofstra University. Hofstra celebrates International Education Week each November and also implements a number of other festivals and programs that celebrate the various religions and cultures represented on campus.

Residential & Student Life Related Questions

Q: Do I need to apply to reserve on campus housing?
If you plan to live on-campus and have not yet submitted your Hofstra on-campus housing application, you are encouraged to do so as soon as possible. As a campus resident, students forge lifelong friendships, get to know students from other states and countries, and gain valuable leadership and team-building experience. Living on campus means you are close to classes, the library, computer labs, the Student Center, recreational facilities, and the hundreds of activities, sporting events, and educational, social, and cultural programs that take place on campus throughout the academic year. The following website will take you through all of the necessary steps: http://www.hofstra.edu/StudentAffairs/StudentServices/ ResLife/reslif_residents_new.html. If you have additional questions you should contact reslife@hofstra.edu.

Q: I will be living on campus. Can you give me a little more information about the residence halls?
If you are interested in learning more about the Office of Residential Programs we recommend visiting their extensive website located at: http://www.hofstra.edu/StudentAffairs/ StudentServices/ResLife/index.html. Hofstra has many different kinds of residence halls. They may include a single room, double room, triple room or quadruple room. Some halls include rooms that have a shared bathroom while others contain a bathroom ensuite. Some suites may also include lounges.

Q: What types of things are included in my residence hall room?
While there are a number of different living areas available on the Hofstra campus, each residence hall has similar common amenities. Each residence hall has laundry, study and kitchen facilities in a common area within the building. Residence hall rooms are supplied with a bed, dresser, wardrobe or closet, desk, chair and wastebasket for each individual student. Each room is also equipped with a phone, cable and computer port. In the Graduate Residence hall the kitchenettes and common areas include a couch, love seat, and coffee tables. Kitchenettes in the Graduate Residence hall consist of a stove top burner, refrigerator, microwave, and kitchen table with chairs.

Q: What size bed will I have in my residence hall?
The standard size bed the residence halls contain is known as a "twin" size bed. The measurements of a twin size bed are approximately 39 inches wide and 75 inches long. Some beds may be up to 80 inches long if they are 'extra long' twin beds. A twin bed is also known as a single bed.

Q: I want to live off campus when I get to Hofstra? Do you recommend living off campus?
International students sometimes highlight that it can be less expensive living off campus. We highly recommend living on campus at least for the entire first year to get adjusted academically and so you can meet a large cohort of other students and build your network of friends and colleagues at Hofstra. We have had international students live off campus for their first year at Hofstra and sometimes they struggle socially, culturally, and academically. The residence halls are staffed with a great team of professionals that are here to help you get acclimated to Hofstra. However, if you wish to live off campus, we suggest your review the website for Off-Campus Living and Commuting Student Services.

Q: Are there any trains or buses that run frequently in the area?
Hofstra provides students and faculty with a Campus Train Shuttle, which services points on campus to the Hempstead Train station and the Mineola Station. There are also two other buses provided by the university—one that loops the campus at designated stops throughout the day, and one that transports students to and from local shopping and entertainment points on the weekends only. The Campus Train Shuttle and the Blue Beetle on campus both stop at train stations that can get you to all points on Long Island and to New York City as well. New York City is only about a 30 minute train ride from the train station near campus.

Q: How do I obtain a meal plan?
We offer flexible meal plans that fit your busy schedule and stay within your budget. With a variety of locations and convenient hours, you can connect, refuel, and save time and money with one of our meal plan options. Plus, all purchases made with your meal plan are sales tax-free! After you have selected and purchased one of the plans, the plan is activated on your HofstraCard, which is similar to a debit card. All campus-dining locations accept the HofstraCard. You will be given an opportunity to open a meal plan at Orientation and if you even need to add money to an existing plan once you are on campus, please contact the Hofstra Card Office in the Student Center.

Q: Will I be able to move in prior to our scheduled move-in day?
No, unfortunately it is not possible to move in prior to the scheduled move-in day. Hofstra has a very extensive summer conference program that houses other guests in the residence halls while students are not here so early move in is unfortunately not an option. We need time to turn the residence halls over as the halls are controlled by Conference Services over the summer and they utilize the residence halls right up until International Student Move -in Day.

Q: Can I change my room after I've been given my room assignment?
No, unfortunately it is not possible to move in prior to the scheduled move-in day. Hofstra has a very extensive summer conference program that houses other guests in the residence halls while students are not here so early move in is unfortunately not an option. We need time to turn the residence halls over as the halls are controlled by Conference Services over the summer and they utilize the residence halls right up until International Student Move -in Day.

Q: What co-curricular activities are available to students on campus?
The Hofstra University community is a very active one! We have many undergraduate and graduate clubs that students may participate in. These clubs vary in category, from cultural clubs, to business clubs, entertainment and social clubs. If there is not a club that meets your needs, you may even form one of your own if you have enough interest. Students may also choose to participate in Greek Life organizations such as fraternities or sororities. Aside from clubs and Greek organizations, the Hofstra University Fitness Center has an extensive intramural sports schedule where students have the opportunity to play on teams for soccer, basketball, softball and much more! Information on how to sign up for these teams is posted at the beginning of each semester. Hofstra also sports a very active International Student Organization (HINT) and a large Student Government Association (SGA) with about 100 members in total. SGA and HINT plan a number of events throughout the year.

Q: What items should I bring to the residence halls when I arrive?
Suggested items that you can bring with you are desk lamps, area carpet(s), television(s), cooking utensils, dishware, drink ware, and micro fridge (micro fridges are only permitted if they are purchased through Hofstra's provider as there are a wide variety of safety precautions). You can purchase these items as well on the first night of Orientation as we take you to a local superstore where you can purchase these items and/or if you have room in your luggage feel free to bring some of these items along.

Q: Is cooking permitted in the residence halls?
Yes. Students are allowed to cook only in the kitchen areas of each residence halls. Residents may cook in their rooms only if they use a University-approved refrigerator/microwave unit. Common area kitchens are equipped with an oven, stove, and/or microwave.

Q: Can students bring a refrigerator and/or microwave to campus?
Residents may bring to campus a refrigerator for their residence hall room or suite (one per room or two per suite), that does not exceed five (5) cubic feet in size and is energy efficient. Microwaves are prohibited on campus in residence hall rooms and suites. If interested the University has made arrangements with a vendor to provide both a refrigerator and refrigerator/microwave rental units at competitive prices. For safety reasons, only refrigerator/freezer/microwave multi-units rented through a University sanctioned vendor are permitted in on-campus residence halls.

Q: What is an RA?
A Resident Assistant is a Hofstra student who lives and supervises a floor in a residence hall. Your RA is there to provide direction with any problem you may encounter on campus or within your residence hall and they also put on programming that supports the community development of the floor and the social, cultural, and academic success of the residents. The RA position is a paid student leadership opportunity and students receive free housing and a small stipend to do the job. If you are interested in being an RA talk to your RA or someone in the Office of Residential Programs.

Financial Related Questions

Q: When do I pay my bill?
Fall bills are typically due the first week of August, and Spring bills are typically due the first week of January. Please check Hofstra.edu/deadlines for specific due dates for each semester.

Q: What types of financial aid are available for international students?
Financial aid is primarily just available to US citizens (permanent residents may apply for some assistance from the State). Hofstra does offer international student scholarships for those that are academically distinguished at the time of admission. Hofstra Law International Students may be eligible to receive Hofstra Law School merit-based scholarship funding only, as determined by the Law School Office of Admissions.

Due to their ineligibility for federal loans, many international students may have a significant gap between total costs and available funding. Thus, we encourage all international students to investigate all available options in their home countries and outside funding organizations. International students may also get useful information at http://www.hofstra.edu/StudentAffairs/omisp/omisp_scholarshipsloans.html.

Q: How do I pay my tuition?
Payments may be made by check through the Hofstra Portal, 24 hours a day, and seven days a week. For more detailed information about payment please visit:http://www.hofstra.edu/sfs/ bursar/bursar_paymentoptions.html.

Q: Is it mandatory to buy international health insurance?
Medical insurance in the US is not nationalized; therefore costs for doctor's services and hospitals may be more expensive than in other countries. All international students are required to be covered by our international student accident and health insurance plan so that they are properly covered during their studies in the US. All F-1 and J-1 non-immigrants are automatically billed for this insurance plan each semester. This plan does not cover dental work. Therefore, it is suggested that any necessary dental work be taken care of prior to departure as dental work can be very expensive in the United States. If you plan on waiving international student insurance the waiver form that is available at Orientation and two copies of your full policy must be turned into the Office of Multicultural & International Students by no later than the end of the first week of classes. Absolutely no late submissions will be accepted and the entire policy must be submitted including the overview of coverage. We cannot make any exceptions to the policy outlined in this section.

Academic Related Questions

Q: What is a full course load of credits and how many credits am I allowed to take every semester?
International students are only allowed to attend school as a full time student, so undergraduates must maintain a MINIMUM course load of 12 credit units, while graduate students must maintain a MINIMUM course load of 9 credit units. Never attempt to drop below being a full time student unless you speak to a Designated School Official in Multicultural & International Student Programs Office. If you drop below full time enrollment without permission you are considered being "out of status" with the United States Government and in turn will have to apply to be reinstated as an international student. There are legitimate reasons why you might need to drop below full-time status, but you need to speak with us first BEFORE you reduce your course load. The process of getting reinstated if you do not follow our advice on speaking to us prior to reducing course load takes several months and can be very costly so be sure to consult with the office before dropping below full-time enrollment.

Q: How can I find out about internships?
If you are looking for an Internship a great place to start is to talk with your Academic Advisor and then go to the Career Center on campus. The Career Center is a fantastic resource for all students seeking an internship or a full time job. They conduct resume workshops and mock interviews as well as a number of other helpful workshops. If you plan on getting an internship you can contact our Office about Curricular Practical Training (CPT) which is an off-campus employment authorization that allows F-1 students to attain work experience in their major field of study. The amount of work permitted is based on how many credits your academic department allows for an internship for the time during which you are an F-1 student. Curricular training applies during your studies only. You can work for any employer as long as the job is directly related to your major. Each semester there is one workshop done by the Office of Multicultral & International Student Programs that provides information and insight to this.

Q: Does Hofstra University offer intensive English instruction?
Yes. Hofstra University offers the English Language Program (ELP) which provides intensive study for undergraduate students whose native language is not English. Its purpose is to bring non-English-speaking students to college-level proficiency in speaking, reading, and writing English.

Q: Are there computer lab facilities on campus?
Yes. Hofstra University has several computer lab facilities available to students. There are two computer lab facilities (Hammer Lab & Calkins Lab) located on the main campus that can be easily accessed by all registered students. Hammer lab is open 24 hours a day, and Calkins Lab varies in hours but from Monday thru Thursday it is open from 8am-Midnight. In addition, the Law School and The School of Education both have computer labs for your convenience.

Q: Is there free internet access on campus?
Yes. There is free internet accessibility throughout the entire Hofstra campus via wireless networks. Ethernet cords are also available in the Resnet Office in the Student Center for all students planning to live on campus.

Employment Related Questions

Q: Can I work while I am on the F-1/J-1 visa?
The Office of Student Employment will conduct a session at International Student Orientation so they are available to answer all of your questions at that time. You are able to work with an F-1/J-1 visa status, but you may work only on campus, and only with the approval of the Multicultural and International Student Programs Office and the Office of Student Employment. If you plan on trying different on-campus jobs during your time here at HU, each job needs to get approved by both offices cited above.

Q: Do I need a social security number to work? How do I get one?
Yes, you need a social security number to work on campus. In order to get one you will need to contact the Multicultural and International Student Programs Office in Room 242 Student Center. You must get a Work Authorization form that must be signed by you, your supervisor and the Office of Multicultural & International Student Programs. When you turn this form into our office to be signed, you must also request a Social Security Letter. The letter and the work authorization form will be ready in two or more business days. After receiving your completed Work Authorization form and your Social Security letter you will be given an additional instruction packet that will explain further details on how to obtain your Social Security Card.

Q: Is it mandatory to receive credit for an internship even though I am not getting paid?
Yes. The only way an international student may participate in an internship experience is through Curricular Training, and in order to do Curricular Training you must be getting credit for the internship.