International Admission: What You Need to Know (Part 1)

If you’re considering attending college in a country other than the one you call home, you already know you have a lot to think about. In my work with international students who are considering Grinnell, I’ve found that there are key questions to consider as you make your college decision.

Of course, you’ll want to check out the FAQ on the website of any college or university you’re interested in. But don’t stop there. Dig a little deeper and ask what I like to call the “rarely asked questions.”

Who Will Look Out for You?

If you’re considering attending college as an international student, you likely have an independent and adventurous spirit. Even so, you’ll want to know who will be looking out for you at your new academic home.

Here at Grinnell, we have knowledgeable and caring staff who will help you make the transition to life in Iowa. Look for staff who have experience working with international students. What sort of programs and orientation do they offer? Will they be able to help you with visa requirements and other issues international students face?

Internships for International Students

Be sure to think about your postgraduation life as well. Look for career services tailored specifically for international students. For instance, U.S. government regulations regarding internships for international students can be complicated. You’ll want to make sure any college you choose has staff who are experts on those issues.

Here at Grinnell, we understand the obstacles international students may face and how to overcome them. From the moment you step on campus, we’ll be working with you to make sure your life after graduation is just as successful as your time on campus. At Grinnell, 68% of our international students have done substantial internship work within their professional field of interest.

If you hope to study off campus or abroad, make sure the study abroad office at any college you’re considering supports international students who want to go abroad. Don’t forget financial aid. You may be wondering — can you take it with you when you study off campus? At Grinnell, you can.

These are just a few of the “rarely asked questions” I encourage you to think about. Be sure to check out Part 2 of this video series, which features my colleague, Senior Assistant Director of Admission Grace Robertson-Lloyd ’16, with more important considerations for international students. Remember, we’re here to help you find out if Grinnell is the place you’d like to call home for the next four years — please reach out if you have questions.