Center for International Education
Resources
International Student Handbook [PDF 1.6MB]
Student Activities
International Students Association
This Association is open to all undergraduate students. It was established in 1989 and has proven to be one of the most active clubs on campus. Its purpose is to foster international awareness and cultural exchange between all members of the Salem State College community. Two of the ISA's major functions are to help international students cope with emotional difficulties like homesickness and culture shock and to facilitate the students' assimilation to the American environment. The Association organizes trips within the United States during holidays and breaks.
Teach-In Program
The goal of this program is to foster global awareness in the elementary and high schools around the area. International students studying at SSC visit area classrooms to present new learning experiences about their countries.
International Festival Month
An annual event held every April, this month is comprised of events such as slide presentations and lectures about various cultures, a forum on international issues, and the International Fair, where crafts, music and costumes are displayed and samplings of food are available from the various participating countries. The month is capped off with Cultural Night with its costume shows, dancing, and local presentations from a variety of groups and clubs as well as participation from Salem and the neighboring communities.
International Diners
These social events allow faculty members, staff, and students to get together to share ideas, experiences and good food from all over the world.
Work options while studying
On-campus employment: F-1 students are allowed to work on campus if they meet the requirements. A maximun of 20 hours per week during school sessions and full time during vacation periods is allowed. Employment with companies or commercial firms that provide direct services to SSC students, such as restaurants or the college bookstore, is considered on-campus employement. Contact your FSA or DSO for the necessary papers.
Off-campus employment: F-1 regulations permit F-1 students to apply for part-time off-campus employment after they have attended an educational institute for one academic year and if they can demonstrate economic necessity. The student must be in good academic standing before DSO can support their application.
Curricular Practical Training: A student may use curriculum practical training for an internship if it is an integral part of an established curriculum. If you participate in curricular practical training for 12 months, "full time, you will not be eligible for optional practicial training. For procedures, see your International Student Advisor.
Optional Practical Training: A total of 12 months "full-time" is allowed.
- Before completion of studies: You have to attend an educational institution for at least one academic year before you are eligible. You must obtain the employment authorization document from the USCIS. The time you use in this category will be deducted from your post-completion practical training.
- Post-completion of studies: You many apply 120 days before completion of your degree requirements (note: completion of studies is not always graduation date). Applications for post completions OPT must be received by USCIS no later than the completion date of your degree requirements. The latest you can begin your post-completion OPT is 60 days after your completion.
Social Security Number (SSN)
You must obtain a social security number if you are earning money in the United States. Social Security Numbers are used to record your earnings for tax purposed. The Social Security office will only give you a SSN if you have a job offer. If you don't have a job offer, the Social Security office will give you a letter of denial.
What you will need to apply for a SSN:
- Passport
- U.S. Immigration Form I-94
- I-20 Form
- Another ID with your photo
- On-campus Work Authorization (from CIE office)
- Social Security Application Form
The Social Security Office is located at Museum Place Mall in downtown Salem, MA.
Massachusetts Driver's License
All drivers must have valid driver's licenses. To obtain a driver's license in Masschusetts, you must take both written and practical (road test) exams administered by the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles. It is useful to have an international driver's license to be used here in conjunction with your valid driver's license. You must get your international driver's license in your home country and it's good for one year from the time you arrive in the U.S.
To apply for a driver's license in Massachusetts you will need:
- Your passport, I-94 and I-20 forms
- Social Security Card or a letter of denial from the Social Security Office
- Document proving date of birth
- Document proving signature – please fill in the Certification of Attendance and Cost Request Form and bring it to CIE
- Document proving Massachusetts Residency (i.e. bank statement, phone or utility bill, school correspondence)
Additional Resources
Credentials Evaluation Services
Important Numbers to Remember
National Emergency Number: 911
National Information/ Directory Number: 411
Salem State College Campus Police: 978-542-6111
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