Burlington County College Welcomes International Students
The Office of the International Program Specialist as well as all college departments welcomes you to Burlington County College. This office insures compliance and responsibility of financial support, academic progress and immigration status with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service. The international Program Specialist coordinates programs and activities for international and foreign-born students to help provide a comfortable cultural adjustment period.
The International Program Specialist is responsible for the admission, advising, testing and registration for all international and foreign-born students. The international program Specialist is the first person you should speak with when applying to the college. She will assist you in reviewing information about topics such as how to register for classes, paying university fees, health insurance matters, getting to know U.S. culture, and life South Jersey. The International Program Specialist is your academic advisor, USCIS liaison and cross-cultural counselor.
International Program Specialist
Carmen Ghiran
(609)894-9311 - Ext. 1350
CGhiran@bcc.edu
Location: Pemberton Campus
Parker Center, Room 154
Office Hours: Monday - Friday Contact the office for more details.
SPECIAL NOTE TO CURRENT INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
Due to recent changes in immigration laws, all international students are now required to register for classes and make any course changes in person with the International Program Specialist, located in the Parker Building, at the Pemberton Campus. It is strongly recommended that you make an appointment by calling 609-894-9311, extension 1350. Due to the high volume of students, walk-ins are not guaranteed to be seen.
Admissions
Please review the following document International Admissions Application and fill out all of the appropriate forms and send them to:
Carmen Ghiran
International Program Specialist
(609)894-9311 - Ext. 1350
CGhiran@bcc.edu
Location: Pemberton Campus
Parker Center, Room 154
SUBMISSION OF FORGED OR ALTERED CREDENTIALS MAY LEAD TO DISQUALIFICATION OR DISMISSAL
|
| Tuition and Fees |
$3,900 |
| Living Expenses/year |
$6,250 |
| Books and Supplies |
$1,250 |
| Transportation and Personal |
$2,196 |
| Total |
$13,596 |
**Please Note: BCC does not offer an I-20 for Intensive English Language Training**
|
| Fall Semester |
June 30 |
| Spring Semester |
November 1 |
*Applications are numbered and reviewed in order of receipt. Try to avoid submitting during the last week “deadline rush”.
These documents must be sent by mail. Faxed or e-mailed documents are not accepted. It is recommended that you make a photocopy of all documents and this checklist for your personal file. Applications will be reviewed after ALL required documents are received. If you are in the U.S. now, you will be contacted for an appointment. If you are out-of-country, your sponsor will be contacted. Further instructions will be given at that time.
Back to Top
Testing, Placement, and Registration
All new students will be tested for English and mathematics prior to registering for classes even if you have taken ESL classes before at other schools in the USA. Students presenting official transcripts from other colleges that indicate a passing grade above “C” in college-level composition may be exempt from taking ESL classes. Likewise, we will accept transfer credits in mathematics from other colleges and universities in the USA with official transcripts in sealed envelopes. If English is not your ethnic language or language spoken at home, you must take the ESL test. At this moment, this test is administered in the International Office at the Pemberton Campus (Room 219, Parker Building) and Mt. Laurel (Contact International Office for test date). Students must accept results of placement tests. Virtually all programs require that the student test at college level math. It is advisable that students take the math test early, so they will be able to register for a wider range of courses that have math prerequisites.
Most international students need some developmental ESL courses. We have a three-level ESL program. Your test results with place you either in or out of the ESL program. You may be able to take both ESL and some major courses concurrently depending on your English language proficiency. We do not use TOEFL for placement. Students must accept placement results from ESL testing. Each school has its own placement system. If you attended another school in the USA, it does not meat that you will place in the same level at Burlington County College Students who place in ESL Levels I and II will be restricted to taking only ESL courses until they reach Level III.
Back to Top
Registration and Academic Advisement
New ESL students and all visa-related matters must be referred to the International Program Specialist in Pemberton or in Mt. Laurel at 609 894-9311 or 856 222-9311 x 1350, aburns@bcc.edu
Students who have completed the ESL program or who test out of ESL are to be advised on academic issues by an assigned academic advisor.
Back to Top
Visitor Visas (B1/B2)
Anyone on a visitor visa is only allowed, by USCIS regulations, to take 1 ESL course per semester. They are not entitled to study any further than ESL.
Complete the BCC Application for Admission and contact the International Program Specialist for admission, testing and registration.
ESL applicants
BCC does not offer an I-20 for Intensive English language Training! Complete the BCC Application for Admission and contact the International Program Specialist for admission, testing and registration.
All other foreign born applicants
Complete the BCC Application for Admission and contact the International Program Specialist for admission, testing and registration.
Back to Top
Financial Aid
Although International Students (F-1visa holders) are not eligible for most forms of financial assistance, you may still be eligible for a scholarship from a private source. Here are links to some scholarship search sources:
There are some loan programs who lend to students who are not U.S. citizens/residents:
Please research these offers carefully and contact the International Program Specialist before you sign any contract.
Back to Top
English as a Second Language (ESL)
The ESL Program at BCC provides English instruction in reading, writing, and speech. The courses prepare students for college classes in English as well as other subjects. It gives students greater fluency in English for work opportunities as well as offers new experiences in the new culture and environment.
Students interested in ESL courses should complete the College Application and then schedule and appointment to meet with the International Program Specialist for further instructions. All students will take a placement test to determine level.
For information on specific ESL courses please visit: English as a Second Language
**BCC does not offer an I-20 for Intensive English Language Training!
Back to Top
Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)
The TOEFL test is used for incoming international students to determine that they have the proper English proficiency to complete a program of study at BCC. Even with the TOEFL score, an international student must complete the placement test.
TOEFL score requirement for international students is: 450 (paper based) and 130 (computerized). Please contact the TOEFL website for information on taking the TOEFL test.
Back to Top
USCIS Updates
Address Reporting Requirement
The Immigration and Nationality Act requires aliens (any non-citizens, including permanent residents) in the US to report their addresses to the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) within 10 days of the change of address.
You must report your new address by using form AR-11. This form is available with the International Program Specialist. Or on the web at the USCIS forms
It must be signed and mailed to:
US Department of Justice
Immigration and Naturalization Service
Change of Address
PO Box 7134,
London, KY 4742-7134
You will not receive confirmation from USCIS that your form has been received.
The form also, asks for an “A” number. An “A” number is assigned to permanent residents and individuals with work authorization. If you are not either of the above then you do not have an “A” number. However, in the space you should write the “admission number” in that space and write the 11-digit number from your I-94 card.
**F-1 Students can report their address directly to the International Program Specialist by filling out a form indicating changes in your address. Click here for the form. International Program Specialis
who will enter the information into the SEVIS system. You do not need to complete form AR-11.
Back to Top
Applying for and Renewing Your F-1 Visa
The U.S. Department of State maintains an excellent web site with links to each of the embassies and consulates around the world at http://www.unitedstatesvisas.gov/studying.html . You should look up the home page of the embassy you will visit to verify the hours and any additional documents that they may require such as academic transcripts and test scores. The site also offers a general overview of the visa application process at Destination USA
F-1 interview with Consulate/Embassy Officer
When meeting the U.S. Consulate or Embassy officer please be prepared with the following information. Please note that even if you are prepared with the following information, issuing an F-1 visa is solely the decision of the Consulate/ Embassy officers.
- Take all paperwork with you (I-20, letters from BCC, passport)
- If you have a sponsor, know who that person is and where they live;
- Know the address and phone number of where you will be residing in the United States. Also, if you will be living with someone, know that person’s name and their relationship to you;
- Know that Burlington County College is the name of the school you will be attending;
- Know what program you will study at BCC;
- Bring documentation with you showing that you still have family in your country and plan to return there after your studies;
- Have an idea of what you would like to do in your country after you complete your studies in the United States;
- Speak for yourself. Do not bring, parents, family, and friends into the interview;
- Speak ENGLISH only;
- Do not try to negotiate.
Things to Remember When Applying to Renew an F-1 Visa
All visa applicants are now required to appear for an interview at the American embassy or consulate. Before you apply, you should understand the process and rules governing the issuing of a U.S. visa. Please read the following information very carefully and contact us if you need more information or help.
Since September 11, there have been many changes to Immigration and State Department rules and procedures. In many cases, it can now take weeks or months to get a US visa because of additional security procedures. Therefore, it is not advisable that students leave the United States during the Winter or Spring breaks if they must get a new visa to re-enter the US.
By law, all applicants for non-immigrant visas, such as visitor or student visas, are seen as “potential immigrants”; that is, someone who plans to remain in the U.S. permanently. Student visas are only given to persons who can convince the visa officer that they intend to return permanently to their home country. Therefore, you must be ready to convince the visa officer that you will return home permanently after you complete your studies.
What Can I Do If My Visa Application Is Denied?
Sometimes an F-1 application at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate may be denied if the consular officer is not convinced that the applicant is a non-immigrant. A non-immigrant's intent must be a temporary stay in the United States. Fortunately,a visa denial for this reason is not always permanent. After a denial, the consular officer may agree to reconsider a case if additional evidence of ties outside the U.S. can be presented. Also, your visa can be denied for other reasons such as insufficient evidence of enough financial resources to support your entire educational and living expenses in the U.S. If your visa application is denied, try obtaining a written explanation of the specific reason for the denial the visa, and ask about re-application procedures before you leave the embassy. Also, try to obtain the full name of the officer who interviewed you, as well as his/her fax number.
Please note: Only the consular/visa officer has the authority to reverse a visa decision. Visa applicants must qualify according to their own circumstances, not on the basis of a sponsor's (or a university's) assurance. Other than providing you with advice, schools do not have any power or authority to make the officer give you a visa. It is your circumstances and the information and documents that you submit that will determine whether or not you will be granted a visa.
Back to Top
Back to Top
Employment for F-1 Visa Student
Employment opportunities for International Students are very limited. You must be able to show support for your entire program of study without working. Employment opportunities for F-1 students is limited to the following
- ON-CAMPUS – (tutoring, office work, etc): There are a few opportunities for on campus employment (tutoring, office work, etc): No documents are necessary except a social security card. In order to obtain a social security card, an F-1 student has to have a letter from an employer with a job offer and a letter from the International Program Specialist to be able to apply for a Social Security Number at a local Social Security Office. (See more information below.);
- CURRICULAR PRACTICAL TRAINING: off campus, part time (less than 20 hrs per week) for less than one year in a co-op or internship related to your studies. You must have had F-1 status for one year to qualify. The College has a co-op internship program to allow F-1 students to obtain some limited employment;
- OPTIONAL PRACTICAL TRAINING: one year, full-time after completion of studies in a job related to your major. You can only use this opportunity after the successful completion of each academic level (i.e. associates, bachelors, etc.);
- BECAUSE OF UNEXPECTED ECONOMIC NECESSITY: temporary employment may be granted by INS. This can be part-time during the school year and full-time during the summer. You must have had F-1 status for one year to qualify. This employment authorization is only for the most serious emergency situations and is not easily obtained.
Back to Top
Social Security Numbers
As of October 13, 2004 international students can NOT be issued a Social Security card without the offer of lawful employment (Ref: XXIII below). Since new students can only work on campus, and since jobs are scarce, it is unlikely that any international student will be able to qualify for a SS card. The best chances for a student to find employment are at the library, bookstore or food service.
International students do NOT need Social Security numbers to get a drivers license, to open a bank account or even to rent an apartment. We can assist you by providing you with the documentation you need to help you get what you want.
Students applying for on-campus jobs for the purpose of acquiring Social Security cards and not reporting to work jeopardize the chances of other international students for gaining lawful employment on campus. They are misrepresenting themselves. For this reason, we will report these students to the Social Security office.
International students do NOT need Social Security numbers to get a drivers license, to open a bank account or even to rent an apartment. We can assist you by providing you with the documentation you need to help you get what you want. You can get all the necessary letters from the International Program Specialist by calling 609 894-9311 or 856 222-9311, ext. 1350 and/or e-mail: aburns@bcc.edu
Back to Top
Responsibilities of an F-1 Student
As an international student at Burlington County College, I understand and agree to adhere to the following USCIS (US Citizenship and Immigration Services) rules regarding maintaining my student visa status. Failure to comply with BCIS rules and regulations may result in my becoming “out of status” and result in possible BCIS action against me. Additionally, Burlington County College has specific rules that help students comply with these guidelines. Click here to download guidelines
Back to Top
Medical Insurance
HEALTH CARE
IN THE UNITED STATES HEALTH CARE IS VERY EXPENSIVE. Health insurance is required by law for all F-1 visa students. Burlington County College provides a very basic policy for emergency medical insurance for about $81.00 per semester. This amount is contained in the "Estimated Expenses for International Students." Other insurance options at higher prices are available for your review. None of these policies covers routine medical exams, medicines, eyes, or teeth; they are only for hospital emergencies.
Do I Need Health Insurance?
The New Jersey State Legislature mandates that all full-time students (enrolled in 12 or more credits) be covered by hospital medical insurance.
The College has obtained a group policy that provides coverage for the period September 1 to August 31. You will be automatically billed for this non-refundable premium unless you are covered by another policy and complete a waiver. Hospitalization Insurance fees vary depending on the semester in which you enroll.
If you do not wish to be included in the plan because you are covered by another policy, you must complete the BCC Hospitalization Waiver. Waivers are available at the Registration Office, Pemberton Campus and at the front desk of the Laurel Hall, Mount Laurel Campus. Waiver forms must be turned in to the Accounting Office, Pemberton Campus, or the Laurel Hall registration office, Mt. Laurel Campus. Waivers must be submitted prior to the first day of classes.
Back to Top
Helpful Links
Health Information for the Chinese Community
US Department of State
Immigration and Naturalization Service
Foreign Embassies, Consulates, and Rep. Offices in the U.S.
Health Information on Specific Destinations
Services and Information for American Citizens Abroad
Travel Warnings and Consular Information Sheets
U.S. Passport Services and Information
U.S. Visa Services
U.S. Embassies and Other Diplomatic Missions
Two commercial websites with useful immigration information
Visalaw.com
Immigration.about.com
International Club
To visit the International Club click here
About Burlington County
Academic Credit Programs
Student Resources
Contacts:
Carmen Ghiran
International Program Specialist
(609)894-9311 - Ext. 1350
CGhiran@bcc.edu
Location: Pemberton Campus
Parker Center, Room 154
Back to Top
