International Student Orientation
You made it!
Welcome!
International Student Orientation is hosted by the Center for Global Education (CGE) and is designed for YOU! With sessions covering F-1 and J-1 visa regulations, cultural differences in the classroom, campus resources and more, International Student Orientation provides everything you need for a successful start to classes and a smooth transition to living in the United States.
Orientation Dates
Fall 2025
Arrival Day: Tuesday, August 12, 2025
Orientation: August 13 - August 15, 2025
Spring 2026
Arrival Day: Friday, January 2, 2026
Orientation: January 5, 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to attend International Student Orientation?
Yes! International Student Orientation is required for all international students.
I am a student in the English Language Institute. Do I need to attend International Student Orientation?
Yes! You will receive an email from the English Language Institute staff with information about orientation and the schedule for English Language Institute students. Please check your email.
Can I arrive a day late?
No. Each orientation session is important and vital to your success as an NCC international student. By missing a session, you're only hurting yourself.
Is International Student Orientation different from the Pre-Arrival Session I attended?
Yes, it's very different. The Pre-Arrival Session is designed to prepare you for departure and arrival to NCC. Everything covered at International Student Orientation will help you succeed after you've arrived!
How long is International Student Orientation?
Depending on when you start (fall semester vs. spring semester), orientation is 1-2 days long. Sessions typically start in the morning and end by 4:30 PM.
Where can I find the schedule?
If you're living on campus, you will receive a copy of the schedule when you get the keys to your residence hall. If you're commuting to campus, you will receive an email telling you when and where to go on the first day of orientation, and upon arrival that first day, you will receive the full schedule.
I'm an athlete and my coach scheduled practice/a team event during one of the International Student Orientation sessions. What should I do?
The good news is that your coach already knows about International Student Orientation and he/she knows attendance is a requirement for you! Please contact your coach to let him/her know that you will not be attending practice/team events during orientation sessions. You can then work with your coach to schedule make-up sessions, if necessary.
Is International Student Orientation fun?
Yes! There are a lot of informative and important sessions, especially those about maintaining visa statuses, employment, and U.S. classroom culture, but we always make time for fun too! It's really important that you have the opportunity to connect with your new classmates so we schedule time for icebreakers, games, trips downtown, meal groups and more!
