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Information for International Students
The Graduate School
Office of International Students and Scholars | English Language Center
City of East Lansing | Arrival Instructions | Frequently Asked Questions
Office of International Students and Scholars (OISS)
103 Center for International Programs (International Center)
OISS is the center for international student involvement at MSU. The office provides new student orientation, as well as other social and cultural programming throughout the year to assist students in fulfilling their educational objectives. From their website you will find information on the following:
Welcome Handbook
Greetings
Getting Started
Living at MSU
Living in the East Lansing/Lansing Community
Living in American Society
American Holidays
Conversion Tables
Immigration Information
Maintaining Legal Status
Miscellaneous Information
Change of Status
Travel
Travel Advisory
Previous Travel Announcements
Immigration Related Information
Traveling to the United States
Traveling to MSU
Grants and Scholarships
Grants and scholarships available to international students.
Sponsored Students
International Sponsored Student Program
Community and University Resources
Community Volunteers for International Programs (CVIP)
Volunteer English Tutoring Program
Campus Center
CATA Bus Information
Career Services and Placement
Counseling Center
English Language Center
Financial Aid Office
Health Care Information
Internationalizing Student Life
University Housing
International Student Organizations
International Student Groups
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English Language Center (ELC)
A-714 Wells Hall

ELC offers intensive language instruction designed to prepare second language learners to study in higher education in the United States. For more information, visit the website, or write to English Language Center, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824.

  • evaluates the language proficiency of all international students seeking admission to MSU's academic programs
  • serves the international community by providing English language instruction against a backdrop of American life and institutions
  • provides two distinct English programs. All new students take a placement examination. Based on the results of this exam, students will follow either the Intensive English Program (IEP) or the English for Academic Purposes Program (EAP)
  • offers some classes in the Language Learning Center, a multi-media center for Michigan State students of English as a second language and students studying foreign languages
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International Student Arrival Instructions
At your arrival at the port of entry: in addition to U.S. Customs formalities, an immigration officer will examine your passport, certificate of visa eligibility (Form I-20 A-B or IAP-66), and financial documents before endorsing a Departure Record or stay permit (I-94) for you. F-1 students will receive a copy of their I-20; J-1 students will receive the pink copy of their IAP-66. Do not lose these documents. They should be kept in your passport on your person - not in your baggage.

Once you arrive on campus, please go to the Office of International Students and Scholars (OISS), Room 103, Center for International Programs (also known as the International Center).

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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the deadline for admission to MSU?
The Graduate School recommends that applications be received by the end of December for the following Fall's admission. This is particularly important if you are applying for financial aid, a graduate assistantship, or fellowship.

The application deadline for some programs can be earlier or later than this. Be sure to consult the academic unit in which you are interested to learn about specific requirements and deadlines. A list of academic units can be found on the Department and Program Directory.

How do I apply to MSU?
Visit the Graduate School's Apply for Admission webpage. Options are available to apply on-line, download an application or request information.

What are the English Language Proficiency requirements?
A chart is included in the International Student Information (PDF) from the Graduate Application on page 10.

What grants and scholarships are available for international students?
Information on grants and scholarships can be found through the Office of International Students and Scholars in their Financial Aid section.

What are my housing options?
MSU students are eligible to live in university residence hall or university apartments. The University Housing website contains information on the difference options and the applications for on-campus housing.

Student may also choose to live off campus. One- to two-bedroom apartments near campus range around $500 to $700 per month. Information about East Lansing and the surrounding communities can be found at The ELmanac.

How much does it cost to attend MSU?
The Controller's Office has a Tuition, Fees, and Housing Calculator to calculate the cost by semester. The Office of Financial Aid also has information on Costs at MSU. Approximately half way down the page is a Budget for a Graduate Student.

What/When is new student orientation?
The Orientation Program is prior to the beginning of Fall semester. Your department should send information on the program once it becomes available. For more information about the orientation week for international students, refer to the Office of International Students and Scholars' website. Links to the Orientation Program will become available once dates/times have been established. Check back often.

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Last Updated: 08/17/2007
Problems with website contact: Mikala Rioux