Announcements

Final Full-time Enrollment Reminder: Add/Drop Deadline Today

Posted on: Tuesday, September 10, 2013

Full-time Enrollment Reminder

As you are finalizing your registration for this semester, remember that all F-1 and J-1 international students are required to enroll full time each semester. Full-time requirements are as follows:

Undergraduate students: 12 credits/semester Graduate students: 9 credits/semester PhD students who have passed qualifying exams: 3 credits/semester In addition to the above requirements, no more than one course (3 credits) of online classes counts toward full-time enrollment. If this is your final semester and you need fewer credits to graduate, you must request full-time equivalency by completing the FTE form and submitting it to OISS immediately. If you will be enrolled below full time this semester, you must request a course load reduction or full-time equivalency authorization from OISS before finalizing your registration. Instructions and the required form (FTE Form 2013.pdf) are available at the OISS office or online in the OISS group on My Poly. If you have any questions about this process, please meet with an OISS advisor during walk-in advising hours this afternoon. OISS has walk-in advising hours on Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday afternoons from 1:00-4:00.

Programs for International Spouses

Posted on: Friday, September 6, 2013

The Office of Global Services at NYU provides programs for spouses and partners of international students and scholars at NYU and NYU-Poly. If you have a spouse who may be interested in these opportunities, please read below for information about a spouse/partner group and conversational English classes. For questions on either program, please contact Samantha Prudente at sp3024@nyu.edu.

Orientation Breakfast for International Spouses/Partners

On Thursday, September 12 spouses/partners and children of NYUs international students and scholars are invited to a welcome breakfast. Learn about all the resources available to you! If interested in attending, learn more details here.

The International Spouses/Partners English Program (ISEP)

ISEP is an English program for the spouses and partners of international students and scholars at NYU. The course focuses on conversational English and American culture, and is offered in 12-week sessions in the fall and spring semesters. For more details and an application click here. Questions? Email Samantha Prudente sp3024@nyu.edu.

The International Spouses/Partners Group (ISG)

ISG is a group for those spouses/partners of international students and scholars at NYU interested in attending events together and sharing common interests and concerns. For more information on the group click here. The first meet of the year is on Monday, September 16. For more information, click here. Questions? Email Samantha Prudente sp3024@nyu.edu.

Important OISS Announcements

Posted on: Tuesday, September 3, 2013

Welcome to the start of the Fall 2013 semester! As you are beginning your classes, please review the following important information: Check-in Reminder

Any new student who has not checked in with OISS yet must do so as soon as possible. Bring your passport and I-20/DS-2019 to OISS during our normal business hours (Monday-Friday, 9:00-5:00) to complete the check-in process. Full-time Enrollment Reminder All F-1 and J-1 international students are required to enroll full time each semester. Full-time requirements are as follows:

Undergraduate students: 12 credits/semester Graduate students: 9 credits/semester PhD students who have passed qualifying exams: 3 credits/semester

In addition to the above requirements, no more than one course (3 credits) of online classes counts toward full-time enrollment. If this is your final semester and you need fewer credits to graduate, you must request full-time equivalency by completing the FTE form and submitting it to OISS. If you will be enrolled below full time this semester, you must request a course load reduction or full-time equivalency authorization from OISS before finalizing your registration. Instructions and the required form (FTE Form 2013.pdf) are available at the OISS office or online in the OISS group on My Poly. OISS Walk-in Advising Hours OISS advisors are available for walk-in advising on Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday afternoons from 1:00-4:00 p.m. Walk-in advising hours are for routine and brief requests. If you have a situation that requires more time (examples include a change of status or reinstatement), email oiss@poly.edu to schedule an appointment.
Posted by:Rebecca Greenstrom Posted to: International Students and Scholars

Famous Brookly Cyclones Game Today 4 PM Tickets available!

Posted on: Monday, August 19, 2013

Posted on: Friday, August 16, 2013

Brooklyn Cyclones Baseball Game TODAY!!! Monday August 19, 4:00 p.m. Meet us at 4 pm in the Lobby of Dibner Hall 5 Metrotech. SEE YOU THERE!!!! Baseball is America's pastime, and the Cyclones are Brooklyn's own minor league team. Experience a baseball game, get to know OISS staff and international students, and enjoy a hot dog and other American ballpark foods at the game. If you have questions about immigration issues or these events, please email us at oiss@poly.edu.
Posted by: Michelle Hall Posted to: International Students and Scholars

Brooklyn Cyclones Game Tickets Monday 8/19! Sign up now!

Posted on: Friday, August 16, 2013

Brooklyn Cyclones Baseball Game Monday, August 19, 4:00 p.m. Sign up in advance at the OISS (230 Dibner) Baseball is America's pastime, and the Cyclones are Brooklyn's own minor league team. Experience a baseball game, get to know OISS staff and international students, and enjoy a hot dog and other American ballpark foods at the game. Sign up in advance at the OISS (230 Dibner Hall). You will need to pay a $5 deposit when you sign up; the deposit will be returned to you at the event.

If you have questions about immigration issues or these events, please email us at oiss@poly.edu.

Posted by: Michelle Hall Posted to: International Students and Scholars

Ice Scream Social Today! 3 PM Private Dining Room

Posted on: Wednesday, August 7, 2013

Ice Cream Social Wednesday, August 7, 3:00 p.m. Rogers Hall, Private Dining Room (access via the cafeteria) Sign up online to reserve your spot. Join us for this build-your-own sundae event! Meet other international students and chat with the OISS staff while enjoying a sweet summer treat!

Posted by: Michelle Hall Posted to: International Students and Scholars

Ice Scream Social Tomorrow! Sign up!

Posted on: Tuesday, August 6, 2013

Ice Cream Social Wednesday, August 7, 3:00 p.m. Rogers Hall, Private Dining Room (access via the cafeteria) Sign up online to reserve your spot. Join us for this build-your-own sundae event! Meet other international students and chat with the OISS staff while enjoying a sweet summer treat!

Posted by: Michelle Hall Posted to: International Students and Scholars

OPT Application Reminders & OISS Closing Announcement

Posted on: Monday, July 1, 2013

Graduating Students: Optional Practical Training (OPT) Reminder If you completed all program requirements in May 2013, the deadline for USCIS to receive your application is Friday, July 19. The deadline for May 2013 graduates to submit the OPT request form to OISS is Friday, July 12. If you have already requested an OPT I-20 from OISS, remember that USCIS must receive your application no later than 30 days after the I-20 was issued by OISS AND no later than 60 days after your program end date. If more than 30 days have passed since OISS issued your OPT I-20, you must request a new one before mailing your application to USCIS. USCIS processing can take up to 90 days from the date they receive your application. OISS does not recommend that you travel outside the U.S. while your application is pending. OISS Closed Thursday, July 4 In observance of Independence Day, OISS will be closed on Thursday, July 4. Walk-in advising hours for that day are also canceled.
Posted by:Rebecca Greenstrom Posted to: International Students and Scholars

OISS Closed This Wednesday 11:00-2:00

Posted on: Monday, June 10, 2013

OISS will be closed on Wednesday, June 12 from 11:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. due to a staff professional development training. Walk-in advising hours are not affected and continue to be Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday from 1:00-4:00 throughout the summer.
Posted by:Rebecca Greenstrom Posted to: International Students and Scholars

Community Announcement - Summer English Conversation Groups

Posted on: Friday, May 24, 2013

English Connections Please register here. Limited space, first come- first served! Questions? Contact Valerie at va447@nyu.edu ***Please note that these groups are not sponsored by NYU-Poly OISS. See the above website or contact information if you have questions about these groups.
Posted by:Rebecca Greenstrom Posted to: International Students and Scholars

is offering FREE summer ENGLISH CONVERSATION groups, beginning in June.

OISS Office Hours Update

Posted on: Tuesday, May 21, 2013

Office Hours
The OISS will be open Monday-Friday, 9:00-5:00 for document pick-up and drop-off throughout the summer. If you need to meet with an OISS advisor, see Walk-in Advising Hours information below. Please note that the OISS will be closed on Monday, May 27 in observance of Memorial Day. Walk-in Advising Hours Beginning Monday, June 3, Walk-in Advising Hours for the summer are Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday from 1:00-4:00. Due to advisor availability, there will be no Walk-in Advising Hours on Thursday, May 23 or the week of May 28-31.
Posted by:Rebecca Greenstrom Posted to: International Students and Scholars

Hands to the Sky Event Happening Now in Pfizer! Music & Refreshments!
Posted on: Friday, May 10, 2013

Come out and screen the Premiere Documentary and Mixer on House Music with OISS and a Live DJ! My House Rocs followed this music out of the clubs and house parties and into the parks and beaches where an estimated 100,000 House Music fans gather to dance, commune and rejoice. Refreshments served. Happening now in Pfizer!
Posted by:Rebecca Greenstrom Posted to: International Students and Scholars

Important End of Semester Reminders

Posted on: Thursday, May 9, 2013

Announcement: No Walk-in Hours Friday, May 10, 2013. OISS will be open 9:00-5:00 for document drop-off and pick-up only. If you need to meet with an advisor, please visit OISS next week during walk-in hours. Travel Update In response to heightened security following the Boston bombings, international students are currently experiencing extra scrutiny when entering the United States. If you are traveling, be sure that you have all of the required documents to re-enter the U.S., including an I-20 with a valid travel signature. Please be advised that visa checks are taking longer than usual, so you should allow for extra time at the airport when returning to the United States, especially if you have a connecting flight. End of Semester Reminders Graduating Students: Optional Practical Training (OPT) Reminder If you are graduating this semester and wish to apply for OPT, we recommend that you do so as early as possible. Information on the application process is available in the Documents section of the OISS group on MyPoly or at the OISS. If you have already requested an OPT I-20 from OISS, remember that USCIS must receive your application no later than 30 days after the I-20 was issued by OISS AND no later than 60 days after your program end date. USCIS processing can take up to 90 days from the date they receive your application. OISS does not recommend that you travel outside the U.S. while your application is pending. Graduating Students: On-campus employment If you are graduating this semester, the latest date that you can work on campus is the date that you complete all program requirements. For most students this is May 21. After that date, graduates may only work on campus with OPT authorization and the work must be directly related to your program. I-20 Expiring? If your I-20/DS-2019 expires this semester but you have not completed your degree, you must apply for an extension at least three weeks before the end date on your current I-20. If you are in this situation, please meet with an OISS advisor as soon as possible to discuss the extension process. Summer Travel? If you are traveling outside the U.S. during the summer, check your I-20 or DS-2019 to see if you have a valid travel signature. Travel signatures are valid for 12 months for current students and 6 months for students who are on OPT. If you need a new signature, bring your I-20/DS-2019 and a copy of your unofficial transcript to OISS. Processing time for travel signatures is five business days (one week).
Course Link/Documents/OPT Full Packet.pdf
Posted by:Rebecca Greenstrom Posted to: International Students and Scholars

Hands In The Sky end of the Semester Event! Friday at 5pm!

Posted on: Wednesday, May 8, 2013

Planning to travel? Important information about I-94 Automation

Posted on: Friday, April 26, 2013

The form I-94 is the Arrival/Departure Record issued by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) when you enter the United States. Up until now it has been the small white card that gets stapled into your passport upon entry. Beginning April 30, CBP will automate this process by issuing digital I-94 records at all airports and seaports. Instead of receiving a paper I-94 record when you enter by air or sea, your I-94 information will now be made available online. However, CBP will continue to issue paper I-94 records at all land borders and at secondary inspection. It is important to note that USCIS and other government departments in the U.S. will continue to require students to submit a paper copy of Form I-94 when requesting certain benefits. Therefore, the OISS advises all students to print and save a paper copy of the electronic I-94 as soon as possible after arrival. For more information about how to print out your I-94 information, click here. Please note that if you don't plan to travel outside the U.S., nothing will change with the I-94 card you currently have. You will turn in your paper I-94 card only when you next depart the U.S., and will receive new automated I-94 information when you return to the U.S.
Posted by:Rebecca Greenstrom Posted to: International Students and Scholars

Announcement: No Walk-in Hours Monday, April 22

Posted on: Friday, April 19, 2013

Due to advisor availability, there will be no walk-in advising hours on Monday, April 22. The OISS will be open regular business hours (9:00-5:00) but advisors will not be available to meet with students. If you need to speak with an advisor, please come to OISS between 1:00-4:00 on a different day. We apologize for any inconvenience.
Posted by:Rebecca Greenstrom Posted to: International Students and Scholars

Reminders: Tax Filing Deadline and Walk-in Hours Today

Posted on: Friday, April 12, 2013

Walk-in Hours As previously announced, there will be no OISS walk-in advising hours this afternoon. The office will be open until 5:00 as usual, but no advisors will be available. Tax Filing Deadline All those who were in the United States in F or J status in 2012 must file tax forms even if they did not work. The deadline to file tax forms is Monday, April 15. If you have not already completed your tax forms, please visit the NYU OGS Tax Page for important information. This page includes information and resources for filing both federal and state tax forms. Federal Tax Information The NYU website includes a link to Glacier Tax Prep software. This program will guide you in completing your federal tax forms. You must have an NYU NetID and password in order to access this page and will be asked to enter it twice. If you have not activated your NYU NetID yet, you must do so at start.nyu.edu before accessing the GTP page. State Tax Information If you earned income in 2012, you may have state tax filing obligations. Glacier Tax Prep does not support state forms, so you will need to complete these forms separately after creating your federal tax return. Review the information on state taxes and links to relevant forms on the NYU website.

Please note that the university is providing these resources and information to you as a service, but OISS advisors are not tax preparation professionals and cannot advise on tax issues.
Posted by:Rebecca Greenstrom Posted to: International Students and Scholars

Important Scam Alert

Posted on: Friday, April 5, 2013

Dear NYU-Poly International Students and Scholars: I'm writing to make you aware of a very sophisticated scam which has surfaced in the eastern United States targeting international students. This week, an international student in New York City received a phone call from someone claiming to be from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS/USDHS). The phone number matched the USCIS toll-free number. The caller claimed that on a recent trip abroad, the student had not filled out the I-94 card correctly and USCIS caught the error on the student's pending OPT application. The caller had a great deal of the students personal information, including name, date of birth, address, and phone number. The caller told him that "USCIS" could help him but only if he took action and sent money within the next two hours. The student was told that if he did not send money immediately, he would be deported within 24 hours. The caller then gave the student detailed instructions on how to send money via Western Union. A phone call like this can be a very stressful situation for an international student, especially in such circumstances when the caller is very convincing or has personal information. Occasionally we have also seen similar scams conducted by email or mail. Please observe the following tips if you receive a call like this:
1. 2. 3. Stay calm. The caller is trying to make you panic so that youll give them money. Remember that the Department of Homeland Sec urity and other U.S. government agencies will not call and demand payment immediately over the phone. Ask for the callers information, including their full name, any Badge ID or other ID number they can provide, and their direct extension. Hang up and contact OISS immediately. Do NOT cooperate and send funds. OISS can help you verify whether or not the request is legitimate or to report the scam to law enforcement if needed.

As an international student, you do have rights when approached by law enforcement or U.S. agencies. The American Civil Liberties Union has a helpful handout regarding your rights when approached by US law enforcement at http://www.aclu.org/national-security/know-your-rights-when-encountering-law-enforcement. If you believe that you have been targeted by a similar scam, please contact OISS immediately. We are here to help you in any way we can. OISS is working closely with NYU Public Safety related to this scam.
Posted by:Rebecca Greenstrom Posted to: International Students and Scholars

Reminder: Federal Tax Workshop Tomorrow - RSVP Today

Posted on: Wednesday, March 27, 2013

Space is still available at the Federal Tax Session tomorrow afternoon! Sign up today at http://surveymonkey.com/s/studentnonresident Non-Resident Federal Tax Workshop Thursday, March 28 3:30-5:30 p.m.

NYU Global Center for Academic and Spiritual Life, 238 Thompson Street Colloquium Room This free workshop is open to all NYU and NYU-Poly international students and alumni but you must sign up in advance. The workshop will cover detailed information on federal tax requirements and Glacier Tax Prep software for students who are non-residents for tax purposes. You should review the information at http://www.nyu.edu/global/international-immigration-services/students/inbound-tonyc/active/taxes.html before attending and bring a draft copy of your tax return prepared using GTP. Note: Glacier Tax Prep assists with federal taxes but does not provide support for state tax returns. If you worked in 2012, you will need to file tax returns with both the federal government AND any states that you lived or worked in that year. Review the state tax information for New York and New Jersey on the NYU website. A representative from New York State will also present a special workshop on New York taxes for NYU-Poly students next week. See below for more details. Non-Resident NY State Tax Session Monday, April 1 2:30-4:30 p.m. Dibner Hall, Room 400 Advance Registration is required at http://surveymonkey.com/s/polytaxworkshop Students should prepare a draft copy of their federal return using GTP and bring a printed copy to the workshop for reference.

Upcoming Walk-in Hours Changes

Posted on: Monday, March 25, 2013

Please note that there will be no walk-in advising hours on the following days: Tuesday, March 26 Monday, April 1 Friday, April 12 OISS will be open our regular office hours (Monday-Friday, 9:00-5:00) on these days but no advisors will be available. If you need to speak with an advisor, please plan to come to OISS during walk-in hours (Monday-Friday, 1:00-4:00) on a different day. We apologize for any inconvenience.
Posted by:Rebecca Greenstrom Posted to: International Students and Scholars

Tax Information and Workshop Sign-up

Posted on: Thursday, March 21, 2013

If you were present in the United States during 2012, you are required to file tax forms with the U.S. government, even if you did not work. The tax filing deadline is April 15. NYU and NYU-Poly have provided resources and tools to help you in preparing your taxes. Please visit the Taxes page on the NYU Office of Global Services website for important tax information for non-immigrant students and their dependents. This website also has a link to Glacier Tax Prep software. This software program is designed specifically for non-immigrants and was purchased by the university as a service to assist you in preparing your federal tax returns. In order to access Glacier Tax Prep, you will need to have a valid NYU NetID and password. If you have not yet activated your NYU NetID, visit start.nyu.edu before attempting to access the Glacier Tax Prep page. Any questions about your NYU NetID should be directed to AskITS@nyu.edu. Please note that non-residents should only use Glacier Tax Prep software or speak with a qualified tax professional who specializes in non-resident taxes. Most online programs and tax preparation companies do not accurately address tax requirements and regulations for non-residents. OISS and NYU OGS will also be offering the following tax workshops: Non-Resident Federal Tax Session Thursday, March 28, 3:30-5:30 p.m. Workshop to be held at NYU Non-Resident New York State Tax Session Monday, April 1, 2:30-4:30 p.m. Workshop to be held at NYU-Poly See the Tax Workshop Flyer.pdf on the announcement in MyPoly for further details and sign-up information on both workshops. You must log in to Glacier Tax Prep and complete a draft copy of your non-resident federal tax return before attending either workshop. Please note that OISS staff cannot advise on tax issues.

Posted by:Rebecca Greenstrom Posted to: International Students and Scholars

Living in America Event today. 5-6 pm LC 400

Posted on: Monday, March 4, 2013

NYU Wasserman Center for Career Development and the Office of International Student and Scholar Services Invites you to attend the second Living in America series event

Do situations that involve professionalism and food make you nervous? Learn the dos and donts of business dining etiquette and networking during this interactive presentation.
Monday, March 4 RSVP on NYU CareerNet Time: 5pm-6pm Location: LC 400
Posted by: Michelle Hall Posted to: International Students and Scholars

Tax Information for F and J International Students

Posted on: Friday, March 1, 2013

If you were present in the United States during 2012, you are required to file tax forms with the U.S. government, even if you did not work. The tax filing deadline is April 15. NYU and NYUPoly have provided resources and tools to help you in preparing your taxes. Please visit the Taxes page on the NYU Office of Global Services website for important tax information for non-immigrant students and their dependents. This website also has a link to Glacier Tax Prep software. This software program is designed specifically for non-immigrants and was purchased by the university as a service to assist you in preparing your federal tax returns. Please note that non-residents should only use Glacier Tax Prep software or speak with a qualified tax professional who specializes in non-resident taxes. Most online programs and tax preparation companies do not accurately address tax requirements and regulations for nonresidents. OISS and NYU OGS will also be offering the following tax workshops: Non-Resident Federal Tax Session Thursday, March 28, 3:30-5:30 p.m. Workshop to be held at NYU Non-Resident New York State Tax Session Monday, April 1, 2:30-4:30 p.m. Workshop to be held at NYU-Poly Further details and information on how to sign up for these sessions will be sent to you later in March. Please note that OISS staff cannot advise on tax issues.
Posted by:Rebecca Greenstrom Posted to: International Students and Scholars

ISLC Conference application deadline has been Extended 2/28/2013!

Posted on: Tuesday, February 26, 2013

Join student leaders from NYU-Poly, NYU, and campuses across the United States for this exciting opportunity to network, share, and improve your leadership skills. The International Student Leadership Conference is an intensive, interactive two-day leadership experience designed to develop leadership skills and educate in areas of cross-cultural communication, leadership styles and conflict management. Held annually in March, this conference provides participants with an opportunity to increase their effectiveness as leaders by providing information and facilitating exercises about leadership styles, practices, and theories. The main goal of the conference is to contribute to the development of innovative Global Leaders.

When: Friday, March 22 (morning)-Sunday, March 24 (late afternoon/evening) Where: Harrisonburg, VA. Bus transportation will be provided and will depart from the NYU-Poly campus in Brooklyn at 7:00 a.m. on Friday, March 22. Cost: A $25 deposit will be required of all participants who are selected to attend. Apply online: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/islc-app

Selected participants will be notified by email.

Posted by: Michelle Hall Posted to: International Students and Scholars

Event Today 4-6pm

Posted on: Monday, February 25, 2013

As part of Living in America Series the Office of International Students and Scholars invite you to Conversations on Monday, February 25, 2013 4:00PM 6:00 PM in Private Dining. Refreshments will be served. This is a great opportunity to get to know each other and network with your peers. For Questions please Contact OISS, Phone: 718-260-3805,E-mail: OISS@Poly.edu

Join student leaders from NYU-Poly, NYU, and campuses across the United States for this exciting opportunity to network, share, and improve your leadership skills. The International Student Leadership Conference is an intensive, interactive two-day leadership experience designed to develop leadership skills and educate in areas of cross-cultural communication, leadership styles and conflict management. Held annually in March, this conference provides participants with an opportunity to

increase their effectiveness as leaders by providing information and facilitating exercises about leadership styles, practices, and theories. The main goal of the conference is to contribute to the development of innovative Global Leaders.

When: Friday, March 22 (morning)-Sunday, March 24 (late afternoon/evening) Where: Harrisonburg, VA. Bus transportation will be provided and will depart from the NYU-Poly campus in Brooklyn at 7:00 a.m. on Friday, March 22. Cost: A $25 deposit will be required of all participants who are selected to attend. Apply online: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/islc-app Application Deadline: Monday, February 25, 5:00 p.m.
Posted by: Michelle Hall Posted to: International Students and Scholars

Graduating Students: Post-completion OPT Information

Posted on: Thursday, February 14, 2013

For all students who are graduating this semester, please be advised that updated forms and information regarding Post-completion Optional Practical Training (OPT) are now available at the OISS and in the Documents section of the OISS group on MyPoly. Please review these documents and instructions carefully as they explain the application process and answer many frequently asked questions. The earliest date spring graduates can apply for OPT is Wednesday, February 20. If you have additional questions about the application process, please come to OISS during walk-in hours (Monday-Friday, 1:00-4:00) to meet with an advisor.
Course Link/Documents/OPT Full Packet.pdf
Posted by:Rebecca Greenstrom Posted to: International Students and Scholars

SWEET TREATS 4-6 pm TODAY!!!!!

Posted on: Monday, February 11, 2013

Come out and Enjoy Wonderful Desserts and time with your NYU-poly friends and OISS!!! The Dessert Social will be In the Private Dining Room of Rogers Hall from 4-6 pm! Sweets, Treats, Cakes..........................
Posted by: Michelle Hall Posted to: International Students and Scholars

International Student Dessert Social Monday Feb. 11

Final Reminder - Last Day to Drop/Add

Posted on: Monday, February 4, 2013

Final Full-time Enrollment Reminder As you are finalizing your registration for this semester, be aware that all F-1 and J-1 international students are required to enroll full time each semester. Full-time requirements are as follows:

Undergraduate students: 12 credits/semester Graduate students: 9 credits/semester PhD students who have passed qualifying exams: 3 dissertation credits/semester

In addition to the above requirements, no more than one course (3 credits) of online classes count toward full-time enrollment.

If this is your final semester and you need fewer credits to graduate, you must request full-time equivalency by completing the FTE form and submitting it to OISS as soon as possible. If you will be enrolled below full time this semester, you must request a course load reduction or full-time equivalency authorization from OISS BEFORE finalizing your registration. Instructions and the required form are available at the OISS office or online in the OISS group on My Poly. If you have any questions about this process, please come to OISS during Walk-in Hours (MondayFriday, 1:00-4:00) to meet with an advisor.
Course Link/Documents/Course Reduction & Full Time Equivalency Request Form
Posted by:Rebecca Greenstrom Posted to: International Students and Scholars

Important OISS Announcements

Posted on: Friday, January 25, 2013

Welcome to the start of the Spring 2013 semester! As you are beginning your classes, please review the following important information: OISS Walk-in Advising Hours Starting Monday, January 28, OISS advisors will be available for walk-in advising every afternoon from 1:00-4:00. This will reduce waiting times at OISS to meet with an advisor. If you need to speak with an advisor, plan to come to the office during those times. Walk-in advising hours are for routine and brief requests. If you have a situation that requires more time (examples include a change of status or reinstatement), email oiss@poly.edu to schedule an appointment. Full-time Enrollment Reminder All F-1 and J-1 international students are required to enroll full time each semester. Full-time requirements are as follows:

Undergraduate students: 12 credits/semester Graduate students: 9 credits/semester PhD students who have passed qualifying exams: 3 dissertation credits/semester

In addition to the above requirements, no more than one course (3 credits) of online classes count toward full-time enrollment. If this is your final semester and you need fewer credits to graduate, you must request full-time equivalency by completing the FTE form and submitting it to OISS. If you will be enrolled below full time this semester, you must request a course load reduction or full-time equivalency authorization from OISS before finalizing your registration. Instructions and the required form are available at the OISS office or online in the OISS group on My Poly. Check-in Reminder Any new student who has not checked in with OISS yet must do so as soon as possible. Bring your passport, I-20/DS-2019, and I-94 card to OISS during our normal business hours (MondayFriday, 9:00-5:00) to complete the check-in process.
Course Link/Documents/Course Reduction & Full Time Equivalency Request Form
Posted by:Rebecca Greenstrom Posted to: International Students and Scholars

Reminders: OISS Closing and Travel Signatures

Posted on: Tuesday, December 18, 2012

On behalf of the OISS staff, I would like to wish you good luck in your remaining finals, and best wishes for happy holidays and a relaxing winter break. As you are finishing your semester, please take note of the following important items: Winter Break: Office Closing Reminder OISS and other offices at NYU Poly will be closed beginning at 5:00 p.m. on Friday, December 21 and will reopen at 9:00 a.m. on Wednesday, January 2, 2013. Please plan accordingly when requesting documents or services from OISS. Travel Reminder If you are planning to travel outside the U.S. during the winter break, you must check that you have a valid passport, F-1 or J-1 visa, and an I-20 or DS-2019 with a valid travel signature. Travel signatures are valid for 12 months for current students and 6 months for students who are on post-completion Optional Practical Training (OPT). If you need a new travel signature, come to OISS as soon as possible; our standard processing time for travel signature is 5 business days. To request a travel signature, you will need to submit an unofficial transcript, your I-20, and a travel request form (now available in the Documents section of the OISS Blackboard site).
Posted by:Rebecca Greenstrom Posted to: International Students and Scholars

Important OISS Announcements

Posted on: Tuesday, December 11, 2012

No OISS Advisors on Friday, December 14 Please be advised that OISS advisors will not be available on Friday, December 14 due to a staff development workshop. The office will be open our regular hours (9:00 - 5:00) for students to drop off requests or pick up documents that have been completed. If you need to speak with an OISS advisor, please plan to come to OISS on a different day. We apologize for any inconvenience. Winter Break: Office Closing Reminder OISS and other offices at NYU Poly will be closed beginning at 5:00 p.m. on Friday, December 21 and will reopen at 9:00 a.m. on Wednesday, January 2, 2013. Please plan accordingly when requesting documents or services from OISS. Travel Reminder If you are planning to travel outside the U.S. during the winter break, you must check that you have a valid passport, F-1 or J-1 visa, and an I-20 or DS-2019 with a valid travel signature. Travel signatures are valid for 12 months for current students and 6 months for students who are on post-completion Optional Practical Training (OPT). If you need a new travel signature, come to OISS as soon as possible; our standard processing time for travel signature is 5 business days. To request a travel signature, you will need to submit an unofficial transcript, your I-20, and a travel request form (now available in the Documents section of the OISS Blackboard site).
Course Link/Documents/Travel Request Form
Posted by:Rebecca Greenstrom Posted to: International Students and Scholars

OISS Telephone Problems

Posted on: Tuesday, December 11, 2012

OISS is currently experiencing problems with our telephone line, and we are working to resolve these issues as soon as possible. If you need assistance today, please email us at oiss@poly.edu or visit us in person in Dibner Hall, Room 230. We apologize for any inconvenience.
Posted by:Rebecca Greenstrom Posted to: International Students and Scholars

OISS Advising Not Available Monday, December 3

Posted on: Friday, November 30, 2012

Due to an all-day staff meeting, there will be no advisors available at the OISS on Monday, December 3. The office will be open for students to drop off any requests or pick up documents

that have been completed. If you need to meet with an advisor to discussion any questions or concerns, please plan to visit the OISS on a different day.
Posted by:Rebecca Greenstrom Posted to: International Students and Scholars

Reduced Academic Course Load Reminder

Posted on: Wednesday, November 14, 2012

Reduced Academic Course Load Reminder All F-1 and J-1 international students are required to enroll full time each fall and spring semester. If you need to withdraw from classes that would lead to you being below full time, you must receive authorization from OISS BEFORE dropping classes. Authorization for a Reduced Academic Course Load is only available in the following very specific circumstances: 1. Documented medical condition 2. Initial difficulties with language or reading requirements 3. Unfamiliarity with U.S. teaching methods 4. Improper course level placement. Please note that reasons 2-4 are limited to only one semester of authorization at the same academic level, and students who are applying for these reasons must still maintain a minimum of half of the normal courseload for the semester. Reduced Academic Course Load Authorization for any of the above reasons requires an application and supporting documentation. If you believe that you may be eligible for this authorization, please come to OISS as soon as possible to discuss your circumstances. For information about NYU Poly withdrawal deadlines, please see http://www.poly.edu/life/student-resources/registrar/academic-calendar.
Posted by: Michelle Hall Posted to: International Students and Scholars

IEDW Study Abroad Fair