International Student and Scholar Services

The Office of International Programs (OIP) is responsible for providing services to all international students and scholars with non-immigrant status (F-1/J-1 visa holders). OIP is committed to making international students and scholars feel at home while they pursue their academic and professional goals at Arcadia. OIP supports international students and scholars throughout the year with pre-arrival, orientation, liaising across the university, as well as year-round programs and activities.

Interested in applying to Arcadia? Learn more on our International Admissions page.

You can learn more about when to arrive, health forms, insurance, and orientation on our Next Steps for New International Students page.

Once you've been admitted, visit our I-20 and Student Visa Information page to learn how to obtain your I-20 and Student Visa.

Visit our Resources page to learn more about obtaining a social security number, driving in Pennsylvania, and work options.

International Peer Associates League members (I-PALs) are trained students who help incoming international students adjust to college life at Arcadia University. I-PALs play a key role in helping the Office of International Affairs throughout the year in providing support services to students such as orientation, peer mentorship, and social and cultural programming.

English Language Support Services are located within the English Language Institute at 6 Royal Ave. Assistance is available during office hours or by appointment. Instructors and advisers are encouraged to refer students for whom English fluency is an obstacle to clear written or oral communication. Faculty workshops and consultations are also available.

The Writing Center provides help from ESL Specialists, graduate student peer consultants who have received instruction in working with non-native speakers.

Mission Statement: The Office of International Programs advances the University’s global educational mission in collaboration with campus partners to create and support innovative academic opportunities that intellectually challenge and engage students, faculty, and staff. The multi-faceted team embraces diversity, inclusivity, and equity with compassion and personalized attention.  

Vision Statement: OIP inspires faculty, staff, and students to collaboratively reimagine a global learning community that thrives on the diversity of its members, rigorous academic short-term field studies, and exemplary support services for international students and scholars.