Office of International Student Services

Whether you are a first-year or transfer student from abroad, a student with dual citizenship, an American expatriate, or a permanent resident of the United States, the Office of International Student Services looks forward to meeting you and helping you make your way at Knox College.

International Pre-Orientation Program

The International Pre-Orientation Program (IPOP) is provided as a supplement to New Student Orientation, and participation in both orientation programs is required for F-1 visa students. IPOP will ease international students' transition to living and studying in the United States. 

Permanent Residents and U.S. citizens living abroad are also welcome to attend IPOP. If you would like to attend, please contact the Office of International Student Services.

Resources for Students

The Designated School Official (DSO) helps international students stay in compliance with current immigration, taxation, and institutional regulations while being successful students. The DSO provides assistance with international clubs, USCIS paperwork, and academic and personal counseling. 

The following resources will help you throughout your time at Knox and after:

• Before You Arrive: Make sure you have all the information you need about getting a visa and preparing to enter the U.S.
• Life in the U.S.: Vital information about health and wellness in the U.S., banking, and  cell phones.
• International Friendship Program: Learn about our non-residential cultural exchange program for Knox international students and Galesburg families.
• International Fair: Learn about the International Fair, held annually in January.
• Employment & Taxes: Information about CPT, OPT, filing taxes, and getting a Social Security Number.
• After Knox: Information about the opportunities your F-1 visa provides after you graduate.

Cultural Centers and Student Organizations

Cultural centers and student organizations play an important role in the lives of many Knox students. Four cultural centers—International House, A.B.L.E. Center for Black Culture, Casa Latina, Asian Cultural Center and the Human Rights Center—promote cultural awareness and are open to all members of the Knox community.

Knox students are involved in more than one hundred organizations, which include cultural and political, religious, academic, social, and student governance organizations, as well as others. Joining a organization—or taking on a leadership role—is a great way to become involved at Knox.

Scholarships

Financial aid packages for international students remain essentially the same during your enrollment at Knox. Families and sponsors are responsible for paying increases in the comprehensive fee, which generally range between 4% and 6%. An international student may be eligible for private educational loans if you are able to find a credit-worthy United States citizen or permanent resident to co-sign for you. Contact the Office of Student Financial Services for more details.