International Student and Scholar Services

Mandatory Orientation

Getting Started -  Pre-departure Information and Support 

Start your journey here.  Begin by downloading your checklist (by visa-type). 

International Wildcat Orientation and Requirements

 Spring 2023 Mandatory In-Person Orientation begins at 9:00 a.m. on January 17 in SSC 122

  • Why are some orientation sessions mandatory?

    Orientation sessions are mandatory when they are required by the U.S. government and/or the University. 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.

    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

  • Virtual Pre-Orientation

    Mandatory and free for all new international students 

    This 30-minute video 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 - optional virtual seminar

    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 - mandatory in-person 3-day event

    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

    Optional activity offered by the Global Student Society. All new International Wildcats are welcome!

    Optional student-led event with games, snacks, and fun! You will meet new friends here.

  • Shopping excursion with International Ambassadors - optional activity

    Optional activity offered by the International Wildcat Program. All new International Wildcats are welcome!

    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 before arriving in the U.S.

    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 before arriving in the U.S. (if possible)

    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.

    Wildcat Welcome Schedule

    Virtual and in-person sessions and activities are offered.