St.George International

Traveling to the USA Time and Measures  Social Custom & Cultural Difference  Time and Temperature  Money and Banking   General Information Transport and Traveling  Media  Communication    Postal Service    Health Care

 Traveling to the USA

Packing     Air Travel      Budget/Student Travel

Customs and Immigration

If this is your first extended trip to another country, you may be a little nervous. Do not worry! The tips in this section will help make sure you arrive in one piece and with all your luggage.

  Packing: The following checklist will help you make sure you have not missed anything important.  

Money Credit cards, checkbook, traveler's checks, financial records, PIN codes for your bank cards · Emergency Money (keep US$100 hidden somewhere on your person of an emergency) 

Clothing Including shoes, coats, cold weather clothing, and rain gear ·Official academic transcripts and English translations ·Medical and dental records, including immunization and vaccination records and prescriptions, eyeglasses, insurance records ·

Marriage certificate and birth certificates of all family members · Passport and plane tickets, Form I-20 · National and international driver's licenses, Sevis Fee Receipt·

A list of the names, addresses, telephone numbers, and email addresses of key contacts, · Books, including a dictionary and phrase book ·

Academic documents, such as the school's course catalog and other material you received from the school. You should bring enough money with you to cover your first month's expenses until you are able to transfer funds from abroad. This will be minimum US $1,500, but probably more (look at your budget to be sure). Make two photocopies of any important document. Leave one copy at home, and bring one copy with you, but keep it separate from the originals. Before you leave, let the international student advisor know about your travel plans and expected arrival date. Also, give your family members who are staying behind your contact information in the United States. Attend the US Information Service's pre-departure orientation session. It will provide a lot of helpful information.  Back

Air Travel

When purchasing your tickets, always ask about APEX (Advance Purchase Excursion) fares, which offer significant discounts for tickets that are purchased several weeks in advance. Keep in mind that air travel covering more than a few time zones often results in a disorientation called "jetlag". Your body will initially have trouble adjusting to the time shift. During your flight, avoid caffeine and alcohol, but drink plenty of water. After you arrive at your destination, it is important to go to sleep at the normal time of your destination, and to walk around in the bright morning sunlight after you wake up. Most people take about 3 days to recover from jetlag. For travel to the US, you should compare the fares on several major international carriers. Sometimes the US airlines are cheaper, and sometimes the major carriers serving your country are cheaper.                            Back

Budget/Student Travel

Several US travel agencies specialize in student, and budget travel, including international travel. These include: The International Student Travel Confederation (ISTC) is the organization that sells the International Student Identity Card (ISIC). Their web site includes a list of the more than 6,000 discounts available to holders of the ISIC card and a list of locations worldwide that issue the card. For more information, send email to istcinfo@istc.org. They also provide a home page for the Student Air Travel Association (SATA) There are also several guides to discount travel on the web.                          Back

Customs and Immigration

When you arrive in the US, you will have to go through Customs and Immigration. They will ask you questions about your reason for visiting the US. Your answer should be "Student". Keep your answers simple and direct. If they want to know the name of the school, tell them the name of the school, without any extra information. If they want more information, they will ask additional questions. For more information see the US Customs Service web site, which includes the brochure Customs Guidelines for Visitors to the United States. Immigration laws can also be found at the US State Department web site. You may also be asked whether you are bringing in any food. Do not bring any food with you. Food you received on the plane should be left on the plane. It is forbidden to bring perishable foodstuffs, such as fruit, vegetables, and meat, or plants into the US. Also forbidden are articles made from certain protected species of animals. If you bring in more than US$10,000 in US or foreign currency you must declare the amount to customs upon entering or leaving the country. If you use medications that contain narcotics or which are administered by syringe, carry a signed prescription from your physician with the medicine.  

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Time and measures 

 

Time and Temperature       Time Zones     Time    

American Holidays       Weights and Measures

Time and Temperature 

Temperatures are most often reported in Fahrenheit, and occasionally also in Celsius. To convert Fahrenheit to Celsius, subtract 32 and multiply the result by 5/9. The following table lists a few common temperatures: °F °C Description

212 100 Boiling point of water

98.6 37 Normal body temperature

86 30 Very hot summer day

72 22 Room temperature

68 20 Mild spring day

50 10 Warm winter day

32 0 Freezing point of water

50 10 Warm winter day

32 0 Freezing point of water

20 -7 very cold winter day 

Climate varies considerably across the United States. You will probably need an umbrella, even in Las Vegas or Los Angeles. In the northern cities, such as Boston, Chicago, Pittsburgh, New York, Seattle, Washington, Denver, and Minneapolis you will need cold weather and snow gear. In the southern states, such as California and Florida, summers may be very hot and the winters mild. Depending on the part of the country, temperatures during the summer will run from the 70s through the 90s. No matter where you are in the US, you will probably need a sweater or jacket for part of the year. If you will be living in an area that gets snow, you will need a good winter coat, boots, and gloves. If the coat does not include a hood, you will need a hat that covers your ears. But all this can wait until after you arrive in the US. Clothing is relatively inexpensive in the US, and it may be easier to find appropriate clothing at your destination. Wait until you arrive, and watch what the natives wear.   Back

Time Zones   

The United States has four main time zones: Pacific Standard Time (PST), Mountain Standard Time (MST), Central Standard Time (CST), and Eastern Standard Time (EST). When it is 9:00 am in California (PST) it is 10:00 am in Denver (MST), 11:00 am in Chicago (CST), and 12:00 noon in New York (EST). Alaska is one hour earlier than California, and Hawaii is two hours earlier. Puerto Rico is in the Atlantic Standard Time zone, one hour after New York. Guam is fourteen hours after New York. If you are on the east coast of the US and calling someone on the west coast, they are probably still asleep at 9:00 am your time. If you are on the west coast and calling someone on the east coast, they are probably eating dinner at 4:00 pm your time. The following table lists the states that occur in each time zone. States that span two time zones are italicized.

Time Zone States

Eastern Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia,

Central Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Wisconsin 

Mountain Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Kansas, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oregon, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, Wyoming

Pacific California, Idaho, Nevada, Oregon, Washington               Back

Time 

During Daylight Savings Time clocks are set forward one hour. It begins on the first Sunday in April and ends on the last Sunday in October. The mnemonic "Spring Forward, Fall Back" will help you remember how to set your clocks. Back
 

American Holidays  

The American calendar is filled with numerous holidays. The following table shows some of the more popular holidays. Important national holidays have been indicated in bold face. Most non-essential government offices will be closed on these days. (Fire, Ambulance and Police are always open.) Banks and post offices also tend to be closed on these days, and many businesses will give their employees the day off.

Holiday Date
 

New Year's Day January 1

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Third Monday in January

Ground Hog Day February 2

Valentine's Day February 14

President's Day Third Monday in February

St. Patrick's Day March 17

April Fool's Day April 1

Patriots Day Third Monday in April

Good Friday Friday before Easter Sunday

Mother's Day Second Sunday in May

Memorial Day Last Monday in May

Flag Day June 14

Father's Day Third Sunday in June

Independence Day July 4

Labor Day First Monday in September

Columbus Day Second Monday in October

Halloween October 31

Election Day Tuesday after the first Monday in November Federal holiday in years divisible by 4

Veterans Day November 11

Thanksgiving Fourth Thursday in November

Christmas Day December 25                                                                                back

Weights and Measures  

The United States still uses the English system of weights and measures. The metric system is available, but people think quarts and inches, not liters and centimeters. The following charts convert between the English and metric systems for the most commonly used measures.

Electronic Equipment

Most electrical outlets in the United States operate with a voltage of 110-120 volts, 60 cycles. If your equipment requires 220 volts, bring a transformer and plug adapter.

If you're thinking of buying a computer to bring with you, you may wish to wait until after you arrive in the US to get a computer. Computer and software prices are often less expensive in the US, and getting cheaper                                          back

Social Customs and Cultural Difference  

Stereotypes  Tipping  TelephoneManners  Dining  Gifts   Smoking  Calendar Dates 

There are a lot of shades to life in the US that you can only learn by living there. But, here you see some of the more important cultural differences. 

Stereotypes

Americans do tend to be more informal than people from other countries. It is common for Americans to wear casual clothing to school and to greet professors by first name. But, good manners and politeness are always appropriate. If you are courteous and polite, and dress a little more formally than your American friends, it will only reflect well on you. However, there are situations and environments in which formality is the norm. Some businesses require their employees to wear a uniform or a suit. It would be inappropriate to wear a T-shirt and blue jeans to a job interview. Some of the more prestigious restaurants require a coat and tie. Americans tend to dress up for cultural events (the opera, theater and ballet) and to dress down for athletic events. Formal wear is required at weddings and funerals, or any other event with religious overtones. Forms of Address American names are written and spoken with the given name first and the family name last. So John Smith's family name is Smith, not John. In an informal situation, Americans will introduce each other by first name, without titles, and occasionally by just the last name. If you are introduced to somebody by first name, you can address him or her by first name the next time you meet. The only exception would be for someone who holds an important position, such as the university president. Unless they tell you otherwise, faculty should be addressed using their title and last name (e.g., "Professor Smith").                                                                        Back

Tipping

Restaurants do not include a service charge in the bill, so you should tip the waiter 15% of the total bill. Taxi drivers expect to get a tip equal to 15% of the total fare. Business visits, on the other hand, tend to be extremely punctual. If you arrive late to a business appointment, it will reflect badly on you. So try to arrive on time, or even a little early. If you know that you will be arriving late, you should telephone ahead to let them know of the delay.                                              Back

Telephone Manners

When you call someone, it is polite to identify yourself.      Back

Dining

Most Americans eat three meals during the day: breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Breakfast begins between 7:00 and 8:00 am, lunch between 11:00 am and noon, and dinner between 6:00 and 8:00 pm. On Sundays "brunch" is a combination of breakfast and lunch, typically beginning at 11:00 am. Students often enjoy a "study break" or evening snack around 10:00 or 11:00 pm. Breakfast and lunch tend to be light meals, with only one course. Dinner is the main meal.              Back

Gifts

If you wish to give a gift when you leave to return to your home country, the best gift is something that is unique to your country. It does not need to be especially valuable or rare, just reminiscent of your home. Possibilities include a book about your country, an inexpensive handicraft or piece of art, or something else that reflects your culture. If you owe a debt of deep gratitude to an American host family, a common way of repaying it is to take the family to a form of entertainment, such as a baseball, basketball, or hockey game, the ballet, or to a goodrestaurant. 

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Smoking

Smoking has become socially unacceptable in the US, in part due to the health risks. Smoking is prohibited in government and public buildings, and many businesses, especially restaurants, will not permit smoking on the premises. Those restaurants that permit smoking will usually have a separate section for customers who smoke. Your school probably has a ban on smoking within campus buildings or near building entrances.                                                                           Back

Numbers

In the United States, the number 13 is symbolic of bad luck. Tall office buildings sometimes skip the number 13 when numbering the floors. The number 7 is symbolic of good luck. 

Calendar Dates

In the United States, dates are written as month/day/year. This is the opposite of the British method, in which dates are written day/month/year. So while 4/3/67 would be March 4, 1967 in Europe, it is April 3, 1967 in the United States. It is best to write out dates using the month name in order to avoid confusion  

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Time and Temperature

Climate varies considerably across the United States. You will probably need an umbrella, even in Las Vegas or Los Angeles. In the northern cities, such as Boston, Chicago, Pittsburgh, New York, Seattle, Washington, Denver, and Minneapolis you will need cold weather and snow gear. In the southern states, such as California and Florida, summers may be very hot and the winters mild. Depending on the part of the country, temperatures during the summer will run from the 70s through the 90s. No matter where you are in the US, you will probably need a sweater or jacket for part of the year. If you will be living in an area that gets snow, you will need a good winter coat, boots, and gloves. If the coat does not include a hood, you will need a hat that covers your ears. But all this can wait until after you arrive in the US. Clothing is relatively inexpensive in the US, and it may be easier to find appropriate clothing at your destination. Wait until you arrive, and watch what the natives wear. During Daylight Savings Time clocks are set forward one hour. It begins on the first Sunday in April and ends on the last Sunday in October. The mnemonic "Spring Forward, Fall Back" will help you remember how to set your clocks. 

Religion

The US Constitution guarantees religious freedom for all faiths. You will almost certainly be able to find a church, synagogue, or mosque near school for people of your faith. 

International Visitors Council

Your city may have an organization that tries to help international visitors during their stay in the United States and to help familiarize them with American customs. Some of the services typically offered include matching you with a host family who will spend an evening with you, tours of the city, visits to factories and businesses, and social events. They might also offer English lessons and holiday hospitality. Ask your friends and colleagues whether the city has such an organization, or look in the yellow pages. 

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Money and Banking 

US Monetary System   Checking Accounts    Credit Cards

Traveler's Checks    Exchange Rates  

US Monetary System

The US Monetary System is a decimal system, with one dollar equal to one hundred cents. One dollar is written as $1 or $1.00. One cent is written as 1¢. One dollar and twenty-five cents would be written as $1.25. Dollar amounts are written with a comma every three digits, so one thousand dollars would be written as $1,000.00. Paper currency is used for amounts of $1 or more, and coins are used for amounts under $1. The most common coins and their dollar equivalencies are as follows:
 

Paper currency is most often circulated in the following denominations: $1, $5, $10, $20, $50, and $100. Occasionally you will encounter a $2 bill. The denomination of all currency is clearly marked on the bottom of both sides of the bill, and on all four corners. Some stores will not accept bills larger than a $20                             Back

Checking Accounts

• You will need a checking account to pay bills, such as rent and utilities. It is not safe to send cash through the mail. It also is not safe to carry large amounts of cash on your person, so you should pay for most of your purchases using a check or credit card.

• To open a checking account, visit a bank and ask to open a checking account, you will need to deposit money into the account when you open it. You can deposit cash or traveler's checks, or arrange for a wire transfer from your home bank (cost around $35). American Express also offers a variety of services that make it easy to withdraw money from your checking account back home. Additional deposits and withdrawals may be made at any time. · The bank will ask you for your Social Security Number. If you are exempt from this requirement, fill out an IRS Form W-8, which you can obtain from the bank.

• If there insufficient funds in your account to cover the check, the check will "bounce" and your account will be overdrawn. This means that the bank will refuse to honor the check and will return it to the depositor. In addition, the bank will charge you a bounced check fee of $15 to $35, so it is important to make sure you always have sufficient funds in your account to cover any outstanding checks.

• If you want your bank to honor checks even when your account is overdrawn, you must ask for overdraft protection. There is an extra fee for this service, and the amount your account is overdrawn up to a limit is treated like a short-term loan. (You pay interest on the balance due.)

• When writing a check, the amount of the check is written twice, once using numerals and once using words. If you were writing a check for $23.35, you would write the words as "Twenty-three and 35/100 dollars", where the word "and" separates the dollar amount from the cents. You would write $23.00 as "Twenty-three and NO/100 dollars". Draw a horizontal line through any leftover space, to prevent someone from adding extra digits to the amount.

• At the end of the month the bank will mail you a statement showing all deposits and withdrawals from your account, as well as the current balance of the account. They will also return to you any cancelled checks. Cancelled checks are checks you wrote that have been processed. They are stamped (cancelled) to indicate that the money has been withdrawn from your account. Cancelled checks should be saved, since they provide proof of payment. This is especially important when you need a receipt of payment, such as for the security deposit on your apartment. You should reconcile the statement against your checkbook to make sure there are no errors.

• Most banks offer a variety of checking accounts. Some banks will offer a "free" checking account with no monthly service charges if a minimum balance is maintained in the account. Typically the minimum balance is $1,000, although some banks require as little as $500 and some banks as much as $2,500. If your visa allows you to work and you receive a regular paycheck, you may be able to avoid the monthly service charges by having your paycheck direct deposited into the account. Also, certain checking accounts will pay interest if a minimum amount of money is kept in the account. Such accounts are known as "Checking with Interest" or "NOW Accounts". But the interest rate on these accounts is very low compared with other investments, so you are better off putting your savings elsewhere.

• When you deposit checks into your account, there is a waiting period of a few days before you can withdraw the money. The length of the waiting period depends on the bank upon which the check is drawn. Local banks will have a shorter waiting period than out-of-town banks. This delay is to protect the bank in case the check bounces.

• Most checking accounts will include a debit card you can use to withdraw money from your account at any ATM, 24-hours a day. This lets you make deposits, withdrawals, and other transactions at any time, even when the bank is closed. ATMs are very convenient because they are located throughout the city near shopping areas and sometimes even inside grocery stores. Most people do not carry a lot of cash, because they can get cash from an ATM when they need it. ATMs limit the amount of your daily withdrawals to a maximum of $300, as a safety measure.

• If your ATM card is ever stolen, notify the bank immediately. Your liability for a stolen or lost card is limited to $50 if you report the loss promptly.

• Be careful in selecting an ATM to use, because the bank that owns the ATM can charge a fee in addition to any fees your own bank may charge for ATM withdrawals. So it is best to use your ATM card to withdraw money only from ATMs owned by your bank. Although you can make withdrawals from almost any ATM, deposits should be made only at your bank's ATMs.

• Some banks offer a debit card that combines the features of an ATM card with a credit card. You can use it like a regular Visa card, except the charges are directly debited from your checking account. This is in contrast to regular credit cards, which provide a grace period of 20 to 25 days for you to pay the bill before interest is charged. On the other hand, it helps avoid the temptation to carry a balance on the card. If you don't already have a credit card, it is worthwhile because international students sometimes find it difficult to qualify for a credit card after arriving in the US

• In recent years, utility companies have started offering direct debit services, where they deduct the monthly bill directly from your checking account. There is no charge for this service, and it saves you the cost of a postage stamp. It is recommended that you sign up for the direct bill payment services offered by the utility companies.

• All of your bank accounts are insured against loss up to $100,000 by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC). The FDIC is a federal agency that protects you against losses caused by bank failure.

• Most students choose the bank that is most convenient for them. This may be the bank with a branch closest to their home, a bank located adjacent to the grocery store, or a bank near school. Another consideration is the fees charged by the bank (especially for ATM card usage) and the minimum balance required for waiving the monthly service charge.

• Bank lobby hours typically run from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Some banks open as early as 8:00 a.m. or as late as 10:00 a.m. Some banks are open on Saturdays. Very few banks are open on Sunday. Most banks are closed during national holidays.                             Back

Credit Cards

• If you pay for purchases at retail stores using a check, they will want to see some form of identification, such as a driver's license or a major credit card (Visa, MasterCard, and American Express). A passport can also serve as a photo identification, but it is not wise to advertise that you are an international visitor. Also, checks are only accepted if they are drawn on an in-state bank, so you cannot use them if you travel out of state.

• Credit cards are such an ingrained part of the American way of life that you will have trouble making certain purchases with anything other than a credit card. If you want to place an order by phone, cash a check, rent a car, or buy airline tickets, you need to have a credit card.

• So it is better to use a credit card to pay for purchases. But you must take care to pay off your balance in full at the end of the month. Otherwise you will incur interest on the balance. This can considerably increase the balance due.

• Many international students find it difficult to get a credit card in the US, because they do not have an established credit history. So if you already have a major credit card such as a MasterCard , Visa or American Express, it is a good idea to bring it with you. American banks can check your credit limit on the foreign card, and this may make them more likely to issue you a credit card. Also, if you opened a checking or savings account with a bank that offers credit cards, it may be easier to get a credit card from that bank since you have money on deposit with them.

• The Bank Rate Monitor and CardTrak web sites also provide information about the least expensive credit cards.

• The major credit cards in the US are Visa, MasterCard, and American Express. Visa and MasterCard are offered by many banks and financial institutions. American Express is offered by only one financial institution, but are accepted by many businesses.                                                                            Back

Traveler's Checks  

• Traveler's Checks are one of the safest ways to transport money. If the traveler's checks are lost or stolen, you can easily get them replaced. Do not countersign the checks until you are ready to use them ·

• If you bring traveler's checks with you to the US, you should bring traveler's checks that are denominated in US funds. Most businesses will accept US-denominated traveler's checks. Taxi drivers and bus drivers will not accept traveler's checks, so you should bring some US currency with you as well.

• Within the US, you can purchase traveler's checks from many travel agencies, banks, Thomas Cook, and American Express offices for face value plus a 1% commission. The American Automobile Association (AAA) sells them to members without charging a commission.

• Aside from the AAA, the three largest sources of traveler's checks are American Express (1-800-221-7282), Citicorp (1-800-645-6556), and Thomas Cook (1-800-223-9920).                                                                       Back

Exchange Rates

• Some banks will exchange foreign currency for a fee but no bank, however, will exchange foreign coinage. You can also exchange currency at the airport or at a major hotel. You can also exchange currency through Thomas Cook Foreign Exchange. Call 1-800-287-7362 for the closest location. Exchange rates are usually printed on the financial pages of the local newspaper. You can also get daily exchange rates from several web sites· 

• It is a good idea to read the advertising circulars that accompany the Sunday newspaper carefully, to familiarize yourself with current prices on a variety of products. This will help you learn to think in dollars, and to distinguish a bargain from a rip-off. It is also helpful to measure the cost of items relative to a common expense, such as the cost of a candy bar or can of Coca Cola. You can use this to get a close feel for the cost of an item. For example, a $5 lunch is inexpensive and a $20 lunch is expensive. International students sometimes run into trouble because of fluctuations in the exchange rate. If your home country's currency is decreasing in value, it is strongly recommended that you conduct all transactions in the currency of the country in which you will be studying. For example, try to get loans issued in the foreign currency. Otherwise, if the value of your country's currency drops, you could find that you have much less money than you expected. 

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General Information

This section describes the Entertainment ,Tourist Attractionsetc. in US 

Entertainment

Major cities often have one or more guidebooks that list the local attractions. It is worth buying a copy of this book. You should be able to find it at local bookstores. The AAA provides free guidebooks for members. The Sunday newspaper will include a section on arts, music, theater, movies, and other forms of entertainment. 

Discounts. Many museums and tourist attractions offer discounted admission to students. You will need to show your student identification card. A college ID works fine. You can also get an International Student Identity Card (ISIC) for $20. Membership includes a booklet listing available discounts and a 24-hour help-line (1-800-626-2427). For more information send email to isicinfo@istc.org.     Back

Tourist Attractions. During your stay in the United States, you may wish to do a little touring. The US has a lot to offer the international visitor. Tourist season runs from Memorial Day through Labor Day. During the off-season the attractions will not be as crowded and hotels won't be as full. But some attractions, such as amusement parks, shut down when school is in session. Some of the more famous attractions for international visitors include:

• Niagara Falls

• The Smithsonian Institution

• Disney World

• The Grand Canyon

• Yellowstone National Park

• Statue of Liberty

• Maine Lobster

• Mall of America
   

There are also several cities worth visiting for their rich of museums, culture, events, attractions, and history. They include:

• Boston, Massachusetts

• Chicago, Illinois

• Hollywood, California

• Las Vegas, Nevada

• Miami, Florida

• New York City

• San Francisco, California

• Washington, DC                                                                                       back

  Shopping

 Business Hours  Sales Tax  Saving Money  Paying for Purchases  Clothing 

Business Hours

The hours of operation depend on the store, and can vary from city to city. Most stores will open between 9:00 and 10:00 am and close at 5:00 or 6:00 pm, Monday through Friday. Some stores will open as early as 8:00 am and some will close as late as 9:00 or 10:00 pm. Banks tend to close at 3:00 or 4:00 pm, restaurants at 8:00 or 9:00 pm, and bars at 11:00 pm to 1:00 am. Stores in shopping malls keep longer hours, with the typical mall store being open 10:00 am to 9:00 pm, Monday through Saturday, and noon to 5:00 pm on Sunday. When most stores in a shopping area close at 5:00 or 6:00 pm weekdays, there will usually be one day a week when they are open late. The day varies from community to community Some stores will be open on Saturday. A smaller number of stores will be open on Sunday. Stores with Sunday hours tend to open between 10:00 am and noon, and to close at 5:00 or 6:00 pm, even if they are open until 9:00 or 10:00 pm the rest of the week. Large grocery store chains are usually open 24 hours a day, except possibly on Sunday. Some pharmacies will also be open 24 hours.              Back

Sales Tax

There is no national sales tax in the US, but each state has its own sales tax. The sales tax is charged as a percentage surcharge on purchases, and is printed on the receipt. Rates differ from state to state. Rates may even differ within a state. For example, Pennsylvania charges 6% sales tax in (city of Pittsburgh and surrounding communities where the sales tax rate is 7%. Unprepared food such as groceries is exempt from sales tax, but prepared food purchased in a restaurant is not. Clothing and medicine may also be exempt from sales tax. Many airports have duty free shopping areas, where sales tax is not charged. This is only worthwhile when you are traveling to a country with a high sales tax rate. The average state sales tax rate in the US is 3%. You can usually find the same items on sale in the US for a lower price, even when sales tax is taken into account.                                    back

Saving Money

Major department stores frequently have sales in which merchandise is sold at a discount, anywhere from 5% to 25% off the normal price. Not everything in the store will be on sale. Sale prices are usually advertised in the Sunday newspaper. Stores will use almost any excuse for a sale, such as holidays and end-of-season clearance. The Christmas shopping season officially starts the Friday after Thanksgiving, but some stores will offer sales starting the weekend before Thanksgiving. The major department store chains are Sears, Macy's, Lord & Taylor, and JC Penney. Supermarkets are large grocery stores, often part of a chain of stores. It is generally less expensive to shop in a supermarket than in a small local grocery, and the selection is larger. The major grocery store chains advertise their sale prices in circulars that are distributed by mail toward the end of the week, and sometimes as an insert in the Sunday newspaper. The Sunday newspaper will also include collections of manufacturer cents-off coupons, which you can clip and give to the cashier to save on purchases. Some supermarkets will double the value of manufacturer coupons. For non-perishable goods, it is worthwhile to stock up when the item goes on sale. The supermarkets may also have their own brands, which sell for less than the popular name brands. Some supermarkets have membership cards which the cashier will scan to give you automatic discounts on some items. The supermarkets use the cards to track your purchases, enabling them to better target their promotions. Discount stores sell name brand merchandise at prices that are less than the prices charged by department stores. The largest discount stores are Wal-Mart, K Mart. For electronic goods you can also go to Circuit City. For computer equipment, you can visit a CompUSA store, but you'll probably be able to buy it at lower prices by mail order from CDW, PC Connection, or Insight. Micron Electronics and Gateway sell high quality computers through mail order as well. For toys, go to a Toys R Us store. For discount clothing stores, there is, Marshalls. Department stores may have a clearance section, where merchandise they no longer stock is being sold at a discount.                                                            back

Paying for Purchases

All stores will accept US currency. No stores will accept foreign currency. Many stores will accept US-denominated traveler's checks. Traveler's checks in foreign currency will be refused. Most people, however, do not carry around large sums of money. Instead they pay for purchases with a credit card or personal check. Most stores will accept the major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, and American Express). Even grocery stores are starting to accept credit cards. The larger department stores will try to encourage you to open a charge account at the store, often by offering a 10% discount on your purchases the day you open the account. Store charge cards work similarly to credit cards.                                                             back

Clothing

Clothing stores often have trial rooms. It is strongly recommended that you try on any clothing before buying it, since clothing is tailored differently in the US and clothing sizes are not consistent. Clothing sometimes uses approximate size measures, such as XS (Extra Small), S (Small), M (Medium), L (Large), and XL (Extra Large). These letters are especially common on T-shirts. Each letter may represent a range of two or three numbered sizes. Dress sizes depend on both height and figure type. A junior size corresponds to a height between 5'2" and 5'5" with a slender figure. A man misses size corresponds to a height between 5'5" and 5'7" with a well proportioned figure. A woman's size corresponds to a height between 5'5" and 5'8" and a fuller and rounder figure.                                                     back

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Transport and Traveling 

Traveler's Aid Cars Taxicabs Intercity Buses and Trains

This section describes the local transportation options available in most cities.  

Traveler's Aid

Traveler's Aid International is an international nonprofit organization dedicated to help travelers in need. They have Traveler's Aid desks at every major airport, bus station, and train station. They do everything from answering traveler's questions, to serving as a lost and found, to helping the homeless. The Traveler's Aid web site includes a directory of local Traveler's Aid societies. For more information about Traveler's Aid, send email to travelers.aid@worldnet.att.net.                  Back

Cars

You probably don't need to own a car during your stay in the United States. A car is certainly convenient, but only cost effective if you use it almost every day. If you live near school, you will find walking, biking, and public transportation to be reasonable alternatives. If you decide to purchase a car, you can get a 10-year-old used car for $1,000 to $2,000 and a 5-year-old car for $5,000 to $8,000. It will probably need to be repaired frequently, but the total cost will be less than a new car. Used cars are advertised in the classified advertising section of the local newspaper. After you take the car for a test drive, you can usually bargain with the seller, knocking 10% to 15% off the price. If you haven't previously owned a car, bring along a friend who knows something about cars. You may want to pay a mechanic at the local gas station to inspect the car for you before buying it. An alternative is to buy a used car from a car dealer. Such cars often come with a 90 day guarantee, but cost more than the ones advertised by individuals. If you want to buy a new car, ask friends about their experiences with different automobiles. Consumer Reports regularly reviews new and used cars, and is one of the few consumer magazines worth subscribing to. You can also read it in the local library. You can also find new and used cars for sale on the World Wide Web. Some of the more popular web sites include Autobytel, AutoConnect, AutoVantage, AutoWeb, CarSmart, Edmund's Automobile Buyer's Guides, and Microsoft CarPoint.  

We strongly recommend getting a local driver's license instead of relying on an international driver's license. Traffic laws and driving habits in the US differ so much that it is best to take a driving class and get a local license. Some states will require you to get a local license. If you decide to get a local driver's license, leave your national and international driver's licenses at home. Otherwise, you will have to turn them in when you receive a local driver's license. If you do not already know how to drive a car, you will need to get a Learner's Permit. This allows you to learn how to drive while a licensed driver is in the car with you. After you have learned how to drive, you will be able to take the driving test. We recommend learning to drive through a driving school. Driving laws differ somewhat from state to state and considerably from what you are accustomed to. Here is a list of some of the more significant differences.

• Speed Limits - Speed limits are designated in Miles Per Hour (MPH), not kilometers. Within cities the speed limit is usually 25 mph (40 kph). Highways have a speed limit of 55 mph (88 kph). Penalties for speeding are severe and can result in higher insurance premiums and license suspension in addition to large fines.

• Driving on the right - Unlike the UK, Asia, and Australia, in the United States cars drive on the right side of the road, and steering wheels are located on the left side of the car. Even if you don't drive a car, you need to be aware of this rule. As your mother always said, look both ways before crossing the road. Every year a few international students are hit by cars because they step off the curb into the path of oncoming traffic. On most streets cars will be coming from your left, not your right.

• Liability Insurance - Most states require you to maintain certain minimum levels of liability insurance on your car in case you are involved in an accident. The insurance covers your liability for damage to the other car and injuries sustained by all people involved in the accident. We strongly recommend getting insurance that covers more than the legal minimums. You can also get collision insurance to cover the cost of fixing your car and comprehensive insurance if the car is stolen, but this is only worthwhile for a new car. If you do not have car insurance, you will not be able to register the car. International students often find that many insurance companies will not issue them a policy because they do not have a driving history in the state and they also don't have an existing insurance policy from another state. If you do succeed in getting a policy, it will probably be through the state's assigned-risk program, which automatically classifies you as a high-risk driver. If you are under age 25 you will also be classified as a high-risk driver, especially if you are male. So your premiums will probably be fairly high.

• Stop Signs and Yield Signs - You should come to a full and complete stop at both signs and wait until it is safe to continue driving. At a four-way stop, cars may proceed in the order in which they arrived at the intersection. So you should allow the cars, which were there when you arrived to go before driving.

• Yield to Emergency Vehicles - If an emergency vehicle approaches with sirens and flashing lights, pull over to the side of the road to allow it to pass, even if it is approaching from the other side of the road.

• Turn Signals - Automobiles in the US are equipped with turn signals that cause the front and rear lights to blink to indicate an impending turn. The left lights blink to indicate a left turn and the right lights blink to indicate a right turn. It is important to indicate your intention to turn left or right or to change lanes by using the appropriate turn signal at least 25 feet before the turn or lane-change. If you do not use the turn signals, you may cause an accident. You should become a member of the American Automobile Association (AAA, pronounced "Triple A"). The cost is modest, and they offer numerous services that make it worthwhile. They offer free maps and guidebooks, will transfer a car registration without a notary fee, and provide a free emergency road service, among other services. They also sell American Express traveler's checks without a commission. Call 1-800-AAA-HELP (1-800-222-4357) for more information. Some states have unusual driving laws and customs. You should ask a local driver for information about any driving laws and customs that are peculiar to their state. If a police officer stops you for speeding, pay the fine by mail. Do not try to give the money to the police officer, since bribery is illegal. Car theft rates in the US are very high, especially in urban areas. Do not leave valuables or packages in sight on the seat, since that may tempt a thief to break the window. Lock valuables in the trunk. Buy a steering wheel lock, such as The Club, and use it whenever you park the car. Don't leave your driver's license or wallet in the car, and keep a copy of your license plate number, car registration, and vehicle identification number in your wallet. This will help in case your car is stolen. In recent years there has been a new type of car theft called carjacking, in which an armed thief steals the car while you are in it. For example, they might steal your car while you are stopped at a red light. To protect yourself from carjacking, keep your doors locked at all times, do not open the windows more than an inch, and avoid driving in bad neighborhoods.

• Most schools have a limited supply of parking spaces, with staff and faculty getting priority. Graduate students are next in line, followed by undergraduate students. If you are an undergraduate student, do not count on being able to get a parking space on campus. The annual fee will range from $700 to $1,500, depending on the school. Most car rental places will not rent you a car unless you are at least 21 years old, and some only if you are 25 years old or older. If you are a member of the AAA, the minimum age sometimes drops to as low as 18 years old. The major rental agencies, for renting a truck, call U-Haul (1-800-GO-UHAUL). Check whether your credit card provides collision and comprehensive insurance when you charge the rental to the card. Between credit card coverage and your own auto insurance policy, you will probably be able to turn down the CDW (collision damage waiver) surcharge. Petrol is known as gasoline or gas in the United States. Gasoline is much less expensive in the United States. Current prices are around $2.00 a gallon. One US gallon is the equivalent of 3.8     Back

Taxicabs

If you do not live far from school, you may find it less expensive to pay for an occasional taxi than to own a car. You can find the telephone number for the local taxi dispatcher in the Yellow Pages. Call the dispatcher at least half an hour before you need the cab. It is best to call at least an hour in advance, especially on busy days. When calling for a taxi, let the dispatcher know if you have a lot of baggage. If you have more than 3 or 4 large bags, ask for a station wagon. You can also pick up a taxi at the local airport, train station, bus station, and in front of major hotels. It is also possible to hail a cab downtown or on major streets, but you may get a quicker response by calling for a cab. To hail a cab, raise your hand and arm at a 45 degree angle to your head with the index finger (the finger next to the thumb) extended as a taxi approaches. If the cab does not have a passenger and is not traveling to pick up a passenger, it will stop. Taxi fares are metered in most cities and based on the distance. After an initial "flag down" fee for use of the taxi, the meter will charge a fixed amount per mile, typically $1.00 to $2.00 per mile, depending on the city. There may be extra charges if the taxi driver has to lift your bags for you. It is customary to give the driver a tip equal to 15% of the total fare. If someone approaches you at the airport or bus station offering to undercut the taxi fares, don't accept. These are illegal and unsafe. They aren't licensed by the city and do not have insurance. In some cases international students have taken rides with strangers only to be robbed of their belongings and money, and dumped in a remote location. Only take taxis with identifiable markings (name of the cab company and cab number) and colors (typically yellow) at an official taxi stand.  

Many hotels have free or low cost shuttles from the airport. If a hotel is located near the school, this can be an inexpensive alternative to taking a taxi. Such shuttles usually leave on the hour or half hour, but you may need to call upon arrival at the airport to make a reservation.  

Bus fares range from $1.00 to $2.00 for a one-zone ride, depending on the city. If you need to change buses, transfers can be purchased for 25 cents in most cities. You give the transfer to the driver on the second bus instead of paying a second fare. Transfers can be used for a return trip, if you will be returning within the time limit. Bus drivers do not carry change, so you will need to bring exact change with you when you get on the bus. Most cities also sell monthly bus passes, which provide you with unlimited travel for a set fee. Bus passes will save you money only if you take the bus every day. Bus passes can usually be purchased from the local grocery store or supermarket. Some subway systems use tokens or fare cards, which are sold at the station. Subway fares may depend on the time of day or the distance traveled. For example, the Metro system in Washington, DC, uses fare cards, with higher fares during rush hour. Some cities have you pay as you get on the bus, some when you get off the bus, and some depend on the time of day. Some will have different rules depending on whether you're headed inbound or outbound .If the bus driver puts his hand over the pay box as you enter, it means that you should pay when you get off the bus. If you are confused, ask the driver. Just before the bus reaches your stop, you should alert the driver by activating the "stop requested" signal. Otherwise the driver may skip the stop. You can activate the "stop requested" signal in most buses by pulling on the horizontal wire above the windows. Trolleys do not have such a mechanism because they stop at every station.                                                                                         Back

Intercity Buses and Trains

If you need to travel from one city to another within the United States, there are four options:

• Flying

• Driving yourself

• Intercity bus

• Train Taking a bus or a train is usually much cheaper than taking a plane, and much less stressful. However, it also takes much longer.

• For every hour of non-stop air travel, the corresponding road trip will take about five hours. For intercity bus timetables and fares, call Greyhound at 1-800-231-2222 or send email to faresandschedules@greyhound.com. Greyhound offers Ameripass to international visitors for unrestricted travel on Greyhound. Prices range from $179 for a 7 day pass to $539 for a 60 day pass. For information on Ameripass, fax 1-212-967-2239 or send email to intlameripass@greyhound.com For train schedules and fares, call Amtrak at 1-800-USA-RAIL (1-800-872-7245) or send email to amtrak_p@ix.netcom.com. Ask about the USA Railpass and All Aboard America fares. Amtrak gives a 15% discount to students with a Student Advantage Card ($20 from 1-800-96-AMTRAK or 1-800-962-6872). Train travel in the US is not as high quality as in Europe, although it can be more comfortable than traveling by bus. The Amtrak web site includes a list of international sales offices  

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  Media 

   

Newspapers and Magazines

Every city has one or two daily newspapers. These represent a good source of local information. There may also be several ethnic newspapers specific to the interests of a culture or religion. There are also a few national newspapers: USA Today, the Wall Street Journal, and the New York Times. Major weekly news magazines include Time, Newsweek, and US News & World Report Television (TV). Each US city has a half dozen or so free broadcast television stations. As many as 100 television stations, however, are available from cable TV or satellite TV, depending on the level of service purchased. These stations included specialized stations for news, weather, home and garden, children, sports, science fiction, movies, and everything else possible. They also offer the broadcast stations, but with better reception. 
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Communication 

Telephone Service , Internet Service

When you arrange for telephone service, you will have to choose a long distance carrier. The major carriers are AT&T, MCI, and Sprint. You can change the carrier later. After your service is installed, call each of the carriers and ask about their discount calling plans. You will need to be persistent in asking for the discount plan that offers you the greatest savings based on your calling patterns. Remember to mention that you will be making international calls. The telephone company will ask you how you wish to be listed in the local telephone directory. We suggest asking them to list your full last name but only the initial of your first name. You can also ask to have your number unlisted, but there will be an extra charge for this service. You will also need to get a telephone. You can get inexpensive telephones from discount stores, department stores, pharmacies, and the ubiquitous Radio Shack store. A basic telephone will cost between $15 and $45. Be sure to get one that provides touch tone service. Soon after you arrange for telephone service, you will receive free copies of the local telephone directories. The telephone directories are known according to the color of their pages. The White Pages list the telephone numbers of residents, organized alphabetically by name. The Blue Pages, often part of the white pages, contain a list of government telephone numbers. If you need the telephone number for the local immigration office, look in the blue pages. The Yellow Pages contain listings and advertisements for businesses organized both alphabetically and by type of business, product, or service. The white pages provide instructions for making local, long distance, and international calls. Local telephone numbers have 7 digits. To make a long distance call you need to dial 1, the 3 digit area code, and the seven digit telephone number. To call an international telephone number, dial 011, the country code, the city code, and the telephone number. Omit any leading zeros from the country code. You can find a list of country and city codes in the white pages. Toll free numbers are like long distance numbers, but with an area code of 800, 888, or 877. Telephone numbers with an area code of 700 or 900 are for pay services and usually involve substantial per minute charges. We recommend asking the telephone company to block access to 700 and 900 numbers on your phone lines. If you need someone's telephone number but do not have a telephone book, you can call Directory Assistance for the number. They will ask for the name and city of the listing, and tell you the telephone number. They will charge you for each time you use this service. To reach local directory assistance, dial 555-1212 or 411. To reach long distance directory assistance, dial 1, the area code, and 555-1212. To find the toll free number for a major company, call 1-800-555-1212; there is no charge for this call. There are also several free searchable directories on the world wide web, such as 555-1212.com , BigBook , WorldPages and Yahoo People SearchPayphones charge 25¢ to 35¢ for a one-minute local call. Charges for long distance calls are much higher. Most payphones accept credit cards, either directly or by dialing a toll free number. For example, dial 1-800-CALL-ATT to charge a telephone call using AT&T long distance to your credit card. You may also purchase prepaid phone cards from many businesses, such as grocery stores and gas stations. To make a collect call (reverse the charges), dial 0 followed by the area code and telephone number. Tell the operator that you are making a collect call. You can also make collect calls by calling 1-800-CALL-ATT (1-800-225-5288) or 1-800-COLLECT (1-800-265-5328).  

Telexes can be sent by Western Union. Call 1-800-325-6000 for the nearest location. You can also use Western Union to send money, but the fees are very high. Call 1-800-225-5227 for more information.                                    Back

Internet Service

Your school may provide dialup numbers that let you access the campus computer network and the Internet from home using a computer with a modem. Otherwise, the telephone company or any of a large number of Internet Service Providers (ISPs) can provide unlimited Internet access at modem speeds for fees of about $20 a month. Internet service allows you to browse the web and to send and receive email. If your friends and family back home has access to email, sending email can be one of the most cost effective methods of communicating. 

Higher speed Internet access is becoming available in many major US cities. There are two main methods of providing high speed access, one using the telephone wiring (ADSL) and one using cable television wiring (cable modems). Both provide high bandwidth incoming and somewhat lower bandwidth outgoing by using the wiring's under exploited transmission capacity. The incoming bandwidth is at least twenty times faster than modem speeds. Of the two, ADSL is a bit more secure and will ultimately provide higher bandwidth                                                             Back

Postal Service

 US Postal Service    Addressing Mail     US Post

Other Postal Services

 Mailing Letters and Shipping Packages Letters and packages can be mailed using the US Postal Service or one of several private delivery services.  

US Postal Service

The US Postal Service delivers letters and packages and sells stamps and postal money orders. They deliver mail both domestically and internationally. Letters weighing up to 16 ounces with the appropriate postage affixed can be deposited in the blue mailboxes located throughout the city. Mail is removed from these boxes twice daily. You can also mail letters and packages directly from the post office. International letters and packages must be mailed from the post office and must be accompanied by a customs form.                                                                   Back

Addressing Mail

When addressing mail for delivery within the United States maintain the zip code. For more information on addressing mail and other topics, please see the Consumer's Guide to Postal Services & Products. If you do not know your address in the US before you leave, mail for you can be sent "General Delivery" to your name at the main post office in your destination city. It is a good idea to write "Hold for 30 Days" on the front of the envelope. General Delivery mail will not be held for more than 30 days. You will need proof of identity, such as a passport, to pick up your mail.                                                                                                           Back
 

US Post There are four main types of mail, each with a different set of postage rates:

• Postcards

• Letters

• Aerograms

• Parcels and Packages: The cost of mailing a package depends on the weight of the package, the distance mailed, and the class of service. The maximum weight allowed is 70 pounds and the maximum size is 108 inches (length and girth combined). Within the United States packages can be sent by first class mail or parcel post. Parcel post is somewhat slower, but also less expensive. Packages sent by parcel post travel by surface transportation (truck or train) and arrive within 7 to 10 days. Books can also be sent by third class mail (book rate) at a significant discount, but will take much longer to arrive. Additional information can be obtained at the post office or from the US Postal Service's Rate Calculators  

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Other Postal Services

Other services offered by the post office include:

• Express Mail

• Certified Mail

• Return Receipt

• Insured Mail

• Registered Mail

• Federal Express (FedEx). FedEx is the world's largest express transportation company. They are well known for delivering letters overnight, but also deliver packages with guaranteed on-time delivery.

• United Parcel Service (UPS)UPS is frequently used for shipping packages because they are often less expensive than the US Postal Service, especially for heavy and bulky packages. They are the first choice for shipping by many mail order companies. They also offer guaranteed overnight delivery for letters. For more information call 1-800-PICK-UPS (1-800-742-5877) or send email to customer.service@ups.com

With any of these services, including the US Postal Service, it is important to package fragile items carefully. Insurance will cover damage to the item only if there is visible damage to the outside of the box. Use the four-foot drop rule: the article should be packed so that it can survive a drop of four feet without damage. This means wrapping fragile items in bubble wrap and using Styrofoam packing "peanuts" to cushion the item within the box. Use enough packing material so that the item doesn't shift or compress the packing material in transit, or the carton may be damaged upon arrival. Paper may be used for wrapping items, but should not be used as filling around the items. If there is more than one fragile item they should be wrapped individually, so that they do not touch each other. You should have at least 2 or 3 inches of packing material around the contents of the box. This will minimize the likelihood of breakage. The carton should be made of sturdy corrugated cardboard, with no string or wrapping paper on the outside of the carton. 

It is best to ship appliances and electronic items in their original boxes and shipping materials. Use shipping tape, not cellophane or masking tape. Reinforced filament tape is best. Remove any old shipping labels from the box. Include the origination and destination addresses on both the inside and outside of the box. This is in case the address on the outside of the box gets obliterated. If you need boxes, many of the delivery services will provide shipping materials for free. If your item doesn't fit in one of the standard sized boxes, you can buy boxes from any stationery supply store such as Office Max, Office Depot, and Staples. Peanuts, bubble wrap, and other packing materials are also available from these stores. You can also get boxes for free by speaking to the manager of the local grocery store. An International shipping company in the US is: DHL Worldwide Express        Back

Health Care 

General Conditions    Medical Emergencies   Medical Records

Health Insurance

Unlike other countries, the United States does not provide socialized medicine. Because medical care can be very expensive, it is important to have health insurance, even if the school does not require it.

General Conditions

International visitors do not have to worry about any unusual health hazards in the United States. Tap water is safe to drink nationwide. AIDS is as much a problem in the US as in other countries. College students are a particularly high risk group because of unsafe sex practices and unrealistic beliefs about HIV transmission.                                                                                                    Back  

Medical Emergencies

If you need an ambulance or emergency medical care, dial 911 on any phone 24 hours a day. You can also dial 0 to reach the operator. They will send an ambulance to transport you to a hospital emergency room. The hospital will need the name of your health insurance company and policy number, so you should always carry your health insurance card with you. Your school may have a health center on campus for minor health issues. Most such health centers are staffed by a nurse practitioner, with a doctor on campus only one or two days a week. For genuine emergencies, however, you should go directly to a hospital emergency room.  Back

Medical Records

Bring a copy of your medical records with you to the US, including immunization and vaccination records and prescriptions.It is generally a good idea to visit your doctor beforeyouleavefortheUS.Someschoolswill require you to complete a physical upon arrival.                                                                                                     

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Health Insurance

International students should note that in addition to tuition, fees, room and board, and living expenses, they will have to pay for health insurance. US law requires universities to verify that international students on a J-1 visa (and their J-2 dependents) have health insurance before allowing them to enroll. The federal government does not require students on an F-1 visa to have health insurance, but the school may set its own requirements. Many schools require all international students to have health insurance, regardless of the type of visa. Your school will probably offer a group health insurance program to students who do not have their own health insurance. There are a variety of student health insurance programs that are available to international students· Academic Risk Management offers the International Student Health Insurance Plan. Their plans meet the F-1 and J-1 regulations and are affordable. For more information, call 888-308-7320, fax 817-421-9432, or send email to marketing@academicrisk.com · 

• Student Insurance Division (SID) offers a variety of student health insurance programs, including several that are open to international students. For example, they offer a health insurance program for graduate and professional school students that is endorsed by the NAGPS. For more information, call 1-800-237-0903 or send email to info@sid.com.  

• Rust and Associates Premier International Health Insurance Plan. For more information, call 1-800-336-0747, fax 1-515-292-7684, or send email to rust.assocs@ames.net. 

• Insurance for Students, Inc. For more information, call 1-800-356-1235 or send email to insrue4stu@aol.com 

• Time Insurance Student Select. For more information, call 1-800-296-6565  

• Champion Insurance. Champion Insurance provides short and long-term health insurance for full-time students at US colleges and universities, including international students and their dependents, temporary health insurance for recent US graduates, and health insurance for US students for study or travel abroad. For more information, call 1-410-879-4577, fax 1-410-836-7441, write to Champion Insurance, PO Box 1050, Bel Air, Maryland 21014-7050, or send email to info@champion-ins.com 

• CNA Cultural and Educational Exchange International Student Insurance Program Although it is possible to purchase dental insurance coverage, most schools do not include dental coverage as part of the school's health insurance program. So you will probably have to pay for any dentist bills yourself. If your school is located near a dental school, the school may offer a low cost dental clinic where dental students treat patients under close supervision of dental professors. If you want to know the locations of nearby dentists, call 1-800-DENTIST (1-800-336-8478). Finding a Doctor If you need help finding a doctor, call the campus health center. You should receive a list of local doctors that participate in your health insurance program when you enrolled. Culture Shock One consequence of traveling to another country is culture shock. The stress of a new situation, confusion due to language difficulties, and a myriad of small cultural differences add up to culture shock. You might feel depressed, be homesick for your country and family, have difficulty sleeping or concentrating, and avoid contact with others. If you experience these symptoms, try talking to someone. Talk to the international student advisor, a friend, the staff at the campus-counseling center, or your neighbor. It also helps to participate in social activities. Write a letter to home. Take a walk in the park. Read a book. Watch a movie. Eat a good meal at a fancy restaurant. Visit the museum or an art gallery. Play a game with some friends                      Back to top