Once admitted to WSSU, you will receive a packet of pre-arrival information that will include your letter of admission, I-20 or DS-2019 and other important information to prepare you for departure to the U.S. This information will also include our International Student Handbook.
Pre-Arrival Information
What to pack/bring
Remember to pack light - Some suggested items include: a few sweaters, a light jacket, both cool and warm weather clothing, tennis shoes, personal items and medications (pictures of family, friends, and home country are great ice breakers).
You will need bed linens and towels, but you may purchase those once you arrive to avoid the extra luggage. We will arrange a shopping trip to a discount store to allow you the opportunity to purchase such items on the first day of the orientation program. For this reason you should bring with you a credit card, debit card, or travelers checks to allow you to make these early purchases before you have had the opportunity to open a bank account.
Weaher
We are fortunate to experience all four seasons in Winston, from temperatures averaging in the mid-80's Fahrenheit (26.7 to 32.2C) in summer and lows of 20 to 30 degrees Fahrenheit (-6.6 to -1.1C) during winter. Light snow and ice are common from December to February. Temperatures begin warming in March with temperatures climbing until mid to late September. November often requires a sweater or light jacket.
Given this range in temperature, you will need a wide range of clothing, from heavy coats to tee-shirts, depending on the season you will be in Winston.
Travel to the U.S.
When you enter the U.S. at the port of entry, present a valid passport, visa, and DS-2019 from to the immigration official. The USCIS will issue the Form I-94 (Arrival/Departure Record) which show the date and place of entry, your status as an F-1/J-1 student, and your eleven-digit admission number.
Keep all of these documents together including the I-94. Please read the instructions for students on form I-20/DS-2019. Under U.S. law you may use the I-20/.DS-2019 to enter the U.S. only for study at Winston-Salem State University. Do not use if you plan to attend another institution.
The closest airport to Winston-Salem is Piedmont Triad Airport in Greensboro. From here it is about a 15 minute cab ride and the cost will be approximately $20.00. Please have the cab driver deliver you to Hauser building on campus. The Office of International Programs is located on the main floor in room 201. Check in with the Immigration Counselor who will make copies of all of your immigration documents. The Office of International Programs is required to keep copies of all immigration documentation for the duration of study at WSSU.
An even more economical option for travel from the airport is a bus system called the PART. The system will pick you up a terminal located near the airport and deliver you to campus. This requires special prior arrangement and transfers, which we can assist you with, however, with luggage, a cab might be the simplest option. You can get off at the campus drop-off on Martin-Luther King Jr. Drive. If at all possible, you should plan to arrive at our campus during the business hours of 8am to 5pm, however, with international flights and delays this is not always possible. Therefore it is imperative that you fill out the Pre-arrival Form with expected flight and arrival times and fax it to the Office of International Programs so that we can have someone available to meet you when you arrive.
Financial Information and Student Services
University costs (tuition, fees, room and board) are subject to increase from year to year. The amount listed on the I-20/DS2019 will change accordingly. Living off campus is typically more expensive than on-campus living. Tuition for the current academic year can be found at this link: Tuition
Payment for room and board fees can be made upon arrival. It may take a few days for funds deposited into a new into a new bank account to be available. Therefore, it might be best for you to use traveler's checks, VISA, or Mastercard for these payments.
Work On-Campus is permitted for 20 hours or less provided employment is available.
There are currently no scholarships available for International Students through WSSU.
Health Services and Insurance (Immunization/Medical History forms)
Each student is required to complete the Health History form and have a complete physical examination, including laboratory testing and required immunizations prior to registering for classes at the university. All medical records are kept by the Health Center including immunizations.
The Student Health Center is available to serve all enrolled students. It is not available for spouses and dependents of students. The center is a clinic staffed by licensed practical nurses who provide routine exams, and medications. For serious illnesses or in the case of accidents requiring emergency treatment, students must use their health insurance at an external medical facility. Medical costs are expensive in the United States, and must be paid by the student. For this reason the university requires all international students to have adequate medical insurance. Please bring the completed health and immunization form with you.
More info can be found on the Student Health Center website.
