International Student Services
Student Success Center | First Floor, Plassmann Hall | (716) 375-4009
International Student Services
The International Student Services Office (ISSO) provides support for international students throughout their time at St. Bonaventure, including admission, continuing registration, graduation and post-graduate employment opportunities. This includes providing students with assistance obtaining F-1 visas, maintaining approved status per USCIS regulations, and seeking authorization for work experiences in their field of study. International Student Services also provides one-on-one support for their academic and personal needs to help them assimilate and achieve success at St. Bonaventure.
Once admitted, international students seeking F-1 status must demonstrate sufficient resources to cover one full year of study, including tuition, fees, room & board, and indirect costs. The necessary documents and instructions will be provided after confirmation of admission and deposit. After receiving appropriate documentation, the ISSO will issue an I-20. Once in receipt of the I-20, the student must visit the nearest US embassy or consulate to apply for the F-1 visa. (Canadian students do not need to apply for a visa in order to obtain F-1 status). Note that consular officials may require their own proof of financial support and English proficiency.
In accordance with federal regulations, St. Bonaventure requires international students be enrolled in a full course of study (at least 12 credits), with the exception of the last semester of attendance. International students must attend classes in person, with only one online course per semester permitted. Additionally, student health insurance is required and must be purchased through the University, unless provided through a government sponsorship or appropriate coverage can be documented from personal health insurance.
In addition to issuing the I-20, the ISSO provides a range of advisement and services to international students. The ISSO ensures adherence to immigration regulations and works with international students to help them maintain their F-1 status. All immigration-related petitions, including employment requests, are filed through the ISSO. In addition to immigration-related advising, the ISSO provides assistance for international students seeking a variety of services, such as:
- international student orientation
- social and community-building programs
- academic success skills
- opening a bank account
- applying for a driver's license
- certifying students for international travel
- securing on-campus jobs
- finalizing internship placements
The International Students Services Office can be reached at: isso@sbu.edu