International and Exchange Student Orientation

The Office of Global Engagement (WCU Global) conducts an orientation to provide you important information about the University, its academic system, campus facilities, residential living, immigration and visa regulations, as well as other vital support services.

Our 3-day International Orientation to make your adjustment to the WCU campus as easy as possible. WCU Global requires that all new students arrive on campus approximately one (1) week prior to classes starting, both to attend this orientation and to have sufficient time to adjust to your new home and community here in Cullowhee, NC.

WCU Global offers a thorough explanation about the educational and cultural atmosphere at Western Carolina University and the surrounding communities of Cullowhee and Sylva, while also providing an opportunity for you all to meet and to create relationships with continuing WCU students, faculty and staff.

U.S. immigration regulations require that you and all international students and exchange visitors register your presence in the US within 30 days of the program start date listed on your individual immigration document (I-20/DS-2019). Your SEVIS Registration takes place during orientation. 

Orientation Checklist:

• Complete your Immunization Form and Medical History

• Sign your Residence Hall Agreement

• Tuition and/or Housing Deposit Payment Link

• Share your arrival and flight info IPS Staff

• Select and register for your courses 

• Make extra copies of all important documents

• Be prepared to pay all fees including tuition, housing, meal plan, and others during orientation. Note: Exchange Students who attend WCU do not pay tuition and fees (except book rental fees). Bilateral exchanges who live on campus pay for housing, meal plan, and insurance if applicable. ISEP Exchanges pay for book rental fees only and insurance if applicable. KNPU students only pay insurance if applicable.

• Additionally, The Office of Global Engagement (WCU Global) coordinates several annual inter-cultural events throughout the year to build cultural diversity and a strong international community on Western Carolina University's campus. We encourage you to bring along items that represent your country or home university that you could share at these annual events. Such events include the Study Abroad Fair in September, International Education Week in November, and our International Festival in April.