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. While a limited number of online classes are allowed, international students must also maintain in-person registration. 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 Coordinator of International Student Services can be reached via email - isso@sbu.edu.