International Students | Penn State Student Affairs

Parent & Family Checklist

All incoming students must submit immunization records prior to arrival on campus. Visit the immunization website for more information
Health insurance is mandatory for all international students in F-1 and J-1 status and their accompanying dependents - learn more here
Remind your student to bring information about their current and maintenance prescription medications
Remind your student to submit their health insurance information in LionPATH

Remind your student to check their email account frequently
Ask your student if they received the email with the tuition bill
Remind your student to consent to do business electronically and to sign the Financial Responsibility Agreement (FRA) in LionPATH prior to enrolling for classes
Discuss getting online access with your student, as they must "delegate access" to you in order for parents to view student information
If you are paying tuition, ask your student to add you as an "authorized payer" on their account
Check out the ways you can pay tuition internationally
Plan for future semesters at tuition.psu.edu
Add funds to student's LionCash account

Remind your student to complete online modules
Encourage your student to participate in Welcome Week activities: welcomeweek.psu.edu
Discuss campus safety and decisions regarding alcohol and drug use
Discuss time management, study skills, and mutual expectations for staying in touch
Talk about how your student will finance their education
Explore programs and services available to assist your student
Provide reminder of life skills (including doing laundry, managing bank account, eating well)
Remind your student to add their cell phone number to the PSUAlert System at psualert.psu.edu to receive text and/or voice alerts

What is the weather like in the State College area?: Fall is typically very nice. Days can be warm but it will cool down in the evenings. As we get closer to November, the weather begins to get cold. The winters can be cold and snowy. Spring is cool and can be rainy. It is not unusual for us to get snow in March and April. Summers are pleasant with some hot and humid days.

Where should our student purchase winter clothing?: We typically recommend that students purchase winter clothing here, unless your student arrives in January, at which time they should have at least several pieces of warm clothing. The perk of purchasing it in State College is that there are a variety of options and prices.

Travel to and from airports: Students and families will need to make their own travel arrangements. Visit the Lodging & Transportation page for additional information.

Planning for out-of-pocket expenses: Students will have to pay for their books and other school supplies, entertainment, and personal needs (e.g. toiletries, clothes, etc.). Students who live off campus and opt out of a meal plan will also need to budget for food.

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International Student