International Student Advising
Laurel Grady assistant dean of student services and international student affairs provides international students advice and counsel on matters related to non-immigrant study in the U.S. and American customs and culture.
F1 students regularly receive comprehensive information on travel advisories, curricular practical training, optional practical training, employment eligibility, regulations, and more. Laurel Grady meets with all international students regularly and is always available to assist students so that they remain compliant with all non-immigrant requirements mandated by the U.S. Department of State.
Helpful Resources
Get to know the city of Philadelphia with the Philadelphia International Guide. View this helpful resource in Chinese, Korean, Russian, and other languages as well.
To locate or contact U.S. embassies and consulates in your country, visit U.S. Department of State.
For information on what to expect upon arrival to the U.S. visit U.S. Customs and Immigration Enforcement.
Recommendations for international students studying in the U.S. (translations included) can be found at Adjusting to American Culture
English Language Practice Online
Employment, Travel, and the Form I-20
Employment of international students is strictly regulated by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Paid performances (“gigs”) are considered employment by DHS, whether they are paid in cash or referred by Curtis staff or faculty. All outside employment of international students must be authorized by the international student advisor prior to being contracted. To seek this authorization, obtain a release request from the registrar, obtain all necessary signatures including that of the dean, and present it to the international student advisor. International students who engage in unauthorized employment are out of status and subject to apprehension and deportation by the enforcement division of DHS.
If you wish to leave the United States temporarily before completing your course of study, you must take a valid I-20 form and several other documents with you in order to be readmitted to the United States. If you change address or change status, you must notify the international student advisor. Please be careful: Failure to comply with DHS regulations can result in extreme penalties.
