Getting Started - Pre-departure Information and Support
Start your journey here. Begin by downloading your checklist (by visa-type).
- F-1 Prearrival Checklist (PDF) - Spring 2023
- J-1 Prearrival Checklist (PDF) - Spring 2023
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Helpful Instructional Videos
- Virtual Meetings With International Student Advisors
- Traveling to Chico and Entering the U.S. - guidance
- Arriving Early in Chico (PDF) - Suggested Things to Do
Virtual Pre-Orientation
Pre-Orientation Video
This 30-minute program will introduce you to campus life, academics, and what it means to be a Wildcat! Take notes. This will help you prepare for your orientation session and become more familiar with Chico State.
Getting Ready For Chico State - Tuesday, December 6 - Register Here
Topics: Travel to Chico, insurance, immunizations, housing, purchasing books, and advice from current students. Also offered is advice for students who have not yet had their visa interview.
International Wildcat Orientation and Requirements
CSU, Chico's orientation for International Wildcats is mandatory for all new first-year, transfer, and graduate-level students. You will gain valuable insights and tools that will help you feel happy, healthy, and safe in your new home and you will learn how to meet your immigration requirements and academic and personal goals at CSU, Chico.
Spring 2023 Mandatory In-Person Orientation - Register Here
January 17 - 19
Information and Details coming soon!
- Why are some orientation sessions mandatory?
Orientation sessions are mandatory when they are required by the U.S. government and/or the University.
Optional sessions are also offered. These will provide you with additional information that will help you to maximize your success.
Past participants tell us that the more sessions they attended during orientation, the better prepared they felt on their first day of classes.
- What happens if I miss a mandatory orientation session?
If you miss a mandatory orientation session, you will have a hold placed on your account, which will prevent you from utilizing services at the University. The only way to lift the hold is to have an individual meeting with an international student advisor. It is important to understand that a short make-up session is not an equal substitute for orientation - every effort should be made to attend all mandatory sessions.
Request an appointment to make up a mandatory session you missed
- Getting Ready for Chico State - International Wildcat Orientation, Part I - optional virtual meeting
Optional meeting for all new international students
Topics: Travel to Chico, insurance, immunizations, housing, purchasing books, and advice from current students. Also offered is advice for students who have not yet had their visa interviews.
- Welcome to Chico State - International Wildcat Orientation, Part II - mandatory in-person
Mandatory for all new international students
Topics: Campus tour, Wildcat ID card, resources for student success, important dates, University regulations, special requirements for International Wildcats, scholarships and fee waivers, getting involved in student activities, health and safety in Chico, immigration check-in, student employment, Wildcat Welcome events, and cultural insights.
- Global Student Society Social - optional activity
- Shopping excursion with International Ambassadors - optional activity
Optional activity offered by the International Wildcat Program. All new International Wildcats are welcome!
Saturday, January 21 - 10:30 am - 3:00 pm
Ride the bus to a local shopping center to purchase needed items for your new home. Shops available include: Target, Best Buy, Walmart, and more.
- Proof of health insurance
Did you know? The cost of a visit to the hospital in California for an uninsured individual is $2500 per day (at a minimum)!
Health insurance is not universal in the U.S. Therefore, International Wildcats are required to purchase an approved health insurance plan that covers the entire academic year, beginning with the first day of classes each semester. It is also highly recommended that students be insured at all times while they are inside of the U.S. (even when school is not in session).
Click here to learn more and to submit your proof of insurance to the international office.
- Proof of COVID-19 Vaccine
Upload proof of immunizations by Jan 1
U.S. government vaccination requirements
Instructions for submitting this documentation to the University
Important Note - If your vaccine type also requires a booster shot in your home country, you will also be required to provide proof of a booster.
- Proof of Immunizations - other than COVID-19
Upload proof of immunizations by Jan 1
Requirements have recently changed. Instructions can be found on the Health and Safety link.
- Get your Wildcat ID Card
Your Wildcat ID card will be required to access many services on campus, including the library and computer labs. Students living in University Housing will also use this card to access their building and eat in the dining halls. Also, your card can be used to ride the local Chico bus system ( B-Line) for free!
All students may load currency on their Wildcat ID Card and use this to pay for services on campus, including campus dining facilities and printing services.
Obtain your card by visiting the Wildcat ID Card Center in person.
Bring your passport and your Wildcat ID Number with you!
Hours of Operation: Monday - Friday from 8 am - 5 pm - Optional Sessions and Activities to Help You Start Strong
There are many things to learn as a new International Wildcat and we've got you covered!
Additional Workshops for International Wildcats (pre-recorded) - optional
Explore these pre-recorded workshops(opens in new window) from anywhere and at a time that is convenient for you.
Wildcat Welcome - for all Chico State students
CSU, Chico's Wildcat Welcome series offers informative and helpful optional sessions and activities to all new students. Activities include meetings with your academic department to learn more about your major, job fairs, social events, athletic activities, and much more.
Virtual and in-person sessions and activities are offered.