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Frequently Asked Questions

Who is required to attend the Cross-Cultural Orientation?
All international students studying at Earlham for the first time are required to attend the orientation.  This includes first year students, exchange students, and transfer students.  U.S. permanent residents and U.S. citizens who were raised outside the U.S. are strongly encouraged to participate.  First year students in the Global Associates Program (GAP) also attend.  GAP is a program for U.S. citizens who are interested in international issues.

When is the Cross-Cultural Orientation?
The Cross-Cultural Orientation will be held August 17 – August 21, 2009.

What am I going to do during Cross-Cultural Orientation? 
You will attend required information sessions including immigration regulations, adjusting to the academic system, work regulations, expectations for scholarship recipients, etc.  We will have cross-cultural communication and understanding sessions for both international and GAP students.  Social events and some free time are also scheduled.

Will I be in a temporary room during Cross-Cultural Orientation?
No, you move directly into the room that is assigned to you for Fall Semester.

Will I have time to go shopping and buy necessities during the orientation week? 
Yes, you will have time to shop and buy necessities.  Shopping trips are included in the schedule and transportation is provided. 

What airport do I need to fly into?
Arrive at Dayton International Airport in Dayton, Ohio.  Members of the orientation committee, who will bring you to campus and help you get settled in your room, will meet you at the airport.

When can I register for fall semester? How?
Registration for new students takes place during New Student Orientation, after Cross-Cultural Orientation. Your faculty advisor will instruct you on how to register for courses on-line.

What is the requirement for proof of immunizations?
Required self-reported immunizations include measles (two doses after your first birthday), mumps (one dose after your first birthday), rubella (one dose after your first birthday), and a tetanus/diphtheria booster within the past 10 years.   You may not be able to attend classes without proof of immunizations.

What will my address be?
Your physical address will be c/o Earlham College, 801 National Road West, Richmond, IN 47374, USA.  Later in the summer you will receive information on your mailing address to give to friends and family.

Where can I send packages to myself before I arrive?
Address your packages:          Your name c/o Earlham College IPO
                                                801 National Road West, Drawer 202
                                                Richmond, IN 47374
                                                USA
Write on the package “New international student, arriving 8/17, hold for arrival”.

When does the Fall Semester start?
Classes begin on Wednesday, August 26.

Can I apply for scholarships or loans from sources other than Earlham?
Yes, but scholarships from sources other than the institution the student is attending are rare and loans almost always require that a U.S. citizen or permanent resident co-sign.

Will I be able to stay on campus during vacation periods?
Yes, college housing is open year round for international students.  There is no additional charge for vacation housing during winter break and other short-term vacation periods.  There is a weekly charge for summer housing.  The fee is determined each year by the Residence Life Staff.

Can I receive additional financial aid if the financial status of my parents/sponsors changes and they cannot pay what was indicated on the Certification of Finances form?
Typically your financial aid package cannot be increased.  If your family experiences substantial changes in their financial situation you should contact an international student advisor, as you may qualify for off-campus employment based on severe economic hardship.

Do I have to fulfill the language requirement?
Students must complete two basic courses (a minimum of 10 semester hours) or demonstrate equivalent competency by examination in a designated second language.