The Office of International Student Programs works with the global student population at Canisius University. Whether you are in need of an F-1 student visa to enroll at Canisius or feel you would connect with students from other cultures, we welcome you to take advantage of our support services!
We offer a number of services and programs that enrich the college experience for both international and American students. These support services address the special needs of those students adapting to an environment far from home, family and friends.
Our friendly and knowledgeable staff is here to make your stay at Canisius a pleasant one. We are located in the lower level of the Student Center in Frisch Hall 008. Feel free to stop in with any questions or concerns, or just to say hello! The best way to make sure we are available to help is to make an appointment. Email @email or @email
Programs with You in Mind
The Office of International Student Programs sponsors many programs throughout the year that either encourage the international students to embrace American culture or to share the uniqueness of our international students' culture with the Canisius University campus. Two of our main internationally themed programs include International Education Week each November and Global Fest in the spring semester. Global Horizons, a student organization for American and international students, also plans many activities throughout the year such as attending local sporting events, trip to Niagara Falls, and cultural dinners for its members.
Before You Arrive to Canisius Checklist:
- Complete the I-20 online application (link can be found in your acceptance letter).
- If necessary, obtain an F-1 student visa
- Complete the housing application in your My Canisius student portal.
- Complete the Physical and Immunization paperwork that was sent with your I-20. You can submit this in your My Canisius portal.
- New freshmen and transfer students will have advisement meetings with their success coach prior to your arrival. We will help you create your schedule to get you on the path to success.
Orientation
The Office of International Student Programs offers a mandatory 2-day orientation program to familiarize new international students with American culture, college life and Canisius itself. During orientation, students meet with faculty and administrators from different departments on campus. This program is designed to help new students get organized and prepared for the academic semester. In addition to meeting with different administrators and offices, social activities are also planned to allow the new international students to get to know each other and the city of Buffalo together. More information on the Mandatory International New Student Orientation can be found here.
Assistance with Immigration Matters
The immigration regulations affecting international students are complicated and difficult to comprehend. The Center for International Education assists the international students in complying with these regulations by explaining the benefits and responsibilities of their visa status. Before making any changes to your student status, course schedule, or accepting a job, international students must make an appointment with Kera Bush-Turner (PDSO) to discuss how these changes may affect their F-1 visa status.
Working in the United States
Curricular Practical Training
Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is a type of employment authorization that allows an F-1 student to participate in off-campus employment. CPT authorization is employment pursuant to an internship requirement or internship elective that is an integral part of the established curriculum and will be counted towards completion of your degree. It must me directly related to your major. To pick up an application and learn about the eligibility requirements to participate in CPT, please make an appointment at the Center for International Education.
Optional Practical Training
Optional Practical Training (OPT) is the opportunity for F-1 students to receive off-campus work experience within their field of study. There are two types of OPT: pre-completion and post-completion. OPT may be authorized for a maximum of 12 months. Not all students are guaranteed to be approved by USCIS for OPT. If you think you may be interested in applying for OPT upon graduation, please make an appointment with the Kera Bush-Turner to learn if you are eligible. The Center for International Education has resources and an application to guide you through the process. We recommend that you do so no less than 30-60 days prior to end of the semester.