International Services and Programs

Fall 2024
F1 Students Pre-Arrival Information.

hccs.edu/international
713.718.8521
3200 C Main St. Houston, TX 77002
(First Floor of HCC Parking Garage)
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83038182315
 Quick Links
1. Next Steps After Receive My Acceptance Letter and I-20 Form
2. How do I prepare for my visa interview?
3. Tips for the f1 visa interview
4. What do you do after your f-1 visa is approved?
5. Where in Houston will I arrive if I am traveling by air?
6. What is the I-94 Form, and where can I get it?
7. What should I do after entering the U.S.?

8. What type of transportation options are available in

Houston?
9. How do I get a driver’s license?
10. What are some things to consider if I choose to buy a
car?
11. How do I open a bank account?
12. Why live in Houston, TX?
13. Why study at Houston community college?
14. For further reading: visa interview possible questions

2
Hello, and congratulations on being accepted to H.C.C.! You are now
part of a dynamic and inclusive community with over 6,100 faculty and
staff and over 70,000 students. Our college also has the largest F-1
student population in the U.S.

With your acceptance letter and the initial I-20 Form, you can apply for an
F-1 visa. Then, schedule an appointment with the nearest U.S. embassy
ASAP.

This document will provide you with all the necessary resources and
information to make a smooth and successful transition. It includes
everything you need to enhance your academic career and personal
growth at H.C.C. We encourage you to read this document thoroughly. If
you have any questions, please feel free to email us at.
oiss.international@hccs.edu

Welcome 3
 Next Steps After Receive My
Acceptance Letter and I-20
Form

1. Pay the SEVIS I-901 Fee

• Using the information on your I-20 Form, submit the SEVIS I-901
Fee payment here: www.fmjfee.com
• Print your receipt to present during your visa interview and when
you enter the U.S.
• The H.C.C. School Code is HOU214F00354000.

2. Obtain Your F-1 Visa

• Apply for an F-1 Visa with your U.S. embassy/consulate.
• Go to https://www.usembassy.gov/ and find your country
• Complete online visa application Form DS-160
• Pay the VISA interview fee.
• Set up Fingerprinting & Visa Interviews
• Do Fingerprinting & Attend Visa Interviews
• For additional information about this process, review
• www.Study in the States

4
How Do I Prepare for My Visa Interview?

If you want to study in the U.S., You must present your case
the Visa interview process is and demonstrate your
the next important step. commitment and intent to
Preparing for the interview and become an international
understanding how to become student in the U.S. For more
an International Student is information on how to apply
crucial. Preparing well for the for an F1 visa in your home
visa interview is the best way country, please visit
to increase your chances of https://travel.state.gov/conten
getting an F1 visa approval. t/trav el.html.

What Documents Do I Need for An F1 Visa

Interview?
When visiting the U.S. Embassy, it is essential
to bring the specific documents that have
been requested. These may include the
following:
• I-20/SEVIS form from the H.C.C.
• Acceptance Letter from the H.C.C.
• Receipt for DS-160 visa application fee
• Receipt for I-901 SEVIS fee
• Confirmation page for Form DS-160 Non-
immigrant Visa Application
• Appointment Confirmation form for visa
appointment
• Passport and recent photo
• Original copies of all documents uploaded to your
H.C.C. application.
• Proof of residence in your home country
• Educational credentials.

5
Tips for the F1 Visa
Interview
• To make a good impression, it's
essential to communicate clearly and
be prepared with a clear plan.
• If you plan to study English in the
U.S., you can request an interview in
your first language, as stated on your
I-20.
• Describe why, where, and what you
plan to study in the U.S., and show
that you have adequate funding to cover tuition and living expenses.
• It's also essential to know about the H.C.C. college and its programs and explain why
you chose H.C.C.
• When discussing your intention to return home, provide specific details and avoid
generalities.
• Keep your answers short, precise, positive, and honest. Don't hesitate to mention if you
have relatives in Houston who may help you with housing and transportation during
your initial semester as an F-1 student.

Read About H.C.C. And F-1 Students

You should be ready to answer questions about H.C.C. and your

academic plans. If you need additional details about H.C.C.,
please visit these links:
https://www.hccs.edu/programs/catalog/
https://www.hccs.edu/support-services/international-students/faqs/

Why am I being interviewed, and what questions will I be asked?

Interviews for F-1 student visas are conducted to ensure that applicants genuinely intend to study in the
United States. During the interview, visa officers will ask you questions about the U.S. school you plan to
attend, your finances, your family and relatives, and your job and job prospects to determine your true
purpose in coming to the U.S. It is important to remember the answers you provided during your
application process and to be truthful during the interview. Lying can cause problems and may lead to
severe consequences. For more information and examples of frequently asked questions, please refer
to the "For Further Reading: Possible Questions for My Visa Interview" section at the end of this
document.
6
To plan your travel,
• Make sure to purchase your tickets and pack your luggage.

• Don't forget to bring your necessary documents, as they are required to enter the U.S.

• If you are under 22 years old on your first day of classes, you must provide proof of
vaccination against bacterial meningitis, signed by a doctor. The documentation should be
in English and include your name, vaccine type, and vaccination date. Additionally, ensure
you write your name, H.C.C. student I.D., and date of birth on each page. Alternatively, you
can get vaccinated upon arrival in the U.S.,

• To complete the necessary steps, fill out the H.C.C. Meningitis Vaccination Verification Form
(Download Here) and scan the completed Form and documents to send via email to
mailto:vaccine@hccs.edu

• Once you have a valid F1 visa, you can enter the U.S. as early as 30 days before the start date
listed on your I-20.

• You should arrive at least two weeks before the start date to prepare, attend the mandatory
International Student Orientation, and complete the necessary steps to enroll in your
classes.

• All students must arrive before the International Student Orientation if you cannot, contact
the I.S.P. office immediately at oiss.international@hccs.edu.

• Remember that classes may fill up quickly, so it's important to arrive as soon as possible to
ensure you can enroll in the required courses at a convenient campus close to your new
home.

Please note that the citizens of Canada and Bermuda are not required to
obtain an F-1 visa. Upon arrival as F-1 students, their passports should show an
entry stamp indicating D/S (Duration of Status).

After your F-1 visa is

approved 7
 • Check the Transportation Security
Administration's www.tsa.gov website
What Should for current travel regulations and
I Know restrictions.
• Also, check with your airline company
Before I Fly? about flight regulations and added fees.
What Documentation Must I Have Ready to
Present When Entering The U.S.?
• Original SEVIS Form I-20 with valid
Program Start Date and signed by the
Designated School Official (D.S.O.)
• Remember to sign and date your I-20!
• The start date on your I-20 cannot be
after your entry date in the U.S. and no
more than 30 days before your entry
date in the U.S.
• Passport –valid for at least six (6)
months at your entry.
• F-1 Visa – must be valid.
• Proof of Financial Support –
Documents uploaded in your
application as proof of necessary funds
to cover tuition and living expenses.
• I-901 Fee Payment Receipt –
Validating that the I-901 payment
was submitted. The receipt can be
reprinted at www.fmjfee.com.
• Please review
https://studyinthestates.dhs.gov/ for
additional instructions about your entry
to the U.S.
Carry These Documents
with You in Your Carry-On
or Hand Luggage! 8

9
 Virtual Check-In for New Arrivals
Attention all new F-1 students! You must
report immediately to H.C.C. when you arrive
in the United States.

Prepare copies of the following documents

in PDF format and email them.
to oiss.international@hccs.edu and your
assigned D.S.O. Include your HCC ID and
"Check-in" in the
email's subject matter.
1. Completed International Student Check-
In Form
2. Form I-20*
3. Passport (photo page)
4. Visa page
5. I-94 - you can print your Most Recent I-
94 at https://i94.cbp.dhs.gov. If you
receive an error that your I-94 was "Not
Found," follow the directions in this
document to request a correction to your
I-94 record: I-94 Correction Instructions
6. Receipt of online payment for the
$50.00 orientation fee – you can pay this
with a credit card online through
the PeopleSoft / Student Account sign-
in. For more information,
see International Payment Tutorial
7. Receipt of SEVIS fee I-901. You can
retrieve the receipt
from http://www.fmjfee.com/. (for
travel reinstatement only)

*Provide this document for all dependents (spouse/ children) on an F-2 visa
**Citizens of Canada and Bermuda should provide a copy of the passport entry stamp indicating D/S.

Your D.S.O. will review all documents and guide you through your New Arriving F-1 Student
Steps.

10
 Where In Houston Will I Arrive If
I Am Traveling by Air?
Houston has two airports: Houston Bush Intercontinental
(I.A.H.) and Houston Hobby (H.O.U.).
If someone is picking you up, you must give them the following
information as they are not permitted to wait for you at the arrival
gate:
 Airport location  Day and time of arrival
 Airline (domestic or international)  Pick up a destination
You can find information about both airports at
https://www.fly2houston.com/.
Tips and things to keep in mind:
• There are two airports in the Houston area; it is essential to specify
which airport you will be landing at!
•Make a plan of where you want to be picked up.
•Make sure you keep your ride updated on any flight delays or changes!
• Both airports have public transportation, taxis, Uber, and Lyft readily
available and designated Passenger pick-up areas.
• If you plan to use a taxi, Uber, or Lyft to be transported in Houston,
remember to set up the apps on your phone before arrival.
From Houston Bush
Intercontinental Airport From Houston's Hobby
(I.A.H.) Airport
• Located 25 miles north of the city via 45
N or 69 N
• It is located in the southeast part of
• The airport bus service is located near
Houston via 45 S.
the baggage claim area. This service
• The airport bus service is located near
runs every 30 minutes from 7:15 am-
the baggage claim area.
12:45 am; this bus goes to the Houston
• All other modes of transportation have
downtown area.
designated areas for pick-up
• All other modes of transportation have
designated areas for pick up.

11
 What Is The I-94 Form, and
Where Can I Get It?
Upon entry into the U.S., the Port of Entry (P.O.E.) official should stamp your
passport with the date of entry, visa class F-1/ or F2 (for dependents), and the
letters D/S (Duration of Status).
The I-94 is now generated and transmitted electronically, and you should print out
your I-94 at the following link https://i94.cbp.dhs.gov after you enter the U.S.
Review your I-94 as soon as possible. You must request a correction if it does not
show your status as F-1. Go in person to the following location:

U.S. Customs and border protection

19581 Lee Rd, Humble, TX 77338
Phone (281) 230-4600
Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday
1:00 pm - 3:00 pm

12
What Should I Do After Entering the
U.S.?
1- SECURE A HOTEL, APARTMENT, A PLACE TO STAY OR
LIVE
A monumental task is finding where to lodge when you arrive in
Houston, as H.C.C. does not offer school housing; we have 21
campuses spread all over the city, and thus, we do not provide
centralized dorms. You can attend any of those campuses based on
location and the classes offered. You are recommended to start with
short-term leases until you are acclimated to the city and your
campus.
Every student in H.C.C. must find his residence. H.C.C. does not
recommend any housing option, but below are a few popular
applications to find a place.
• https://www.airbnb.com/
• https://www.zillow.com/
• https://www.nestpick.com
• https://www.apartments.com
• https://www.har.com/rentals
• https://www.roommates.com
• https://www.roomiematch.com
• https://www.roomster.com

We STRONGLY RECOMMEND You start this process prior to arriving in Houston.

13
 What Should I Do After Entering the
U.S.?

2- VIRTUAL CHECK-IN WITH INTERNATIONAL SERVICES

& PROGRAMS OFFICE

After entering the U.S. on your F-1 visa, you must complete your
Virtual Check-In at the Houston Community College, Office of
International Services & Programs, as soon as possible!

The Check-In schedule and a list of required documents are included

in your acceptance package.
Additionally, you can find them in this link should you misplace them:
New International Student Check-In Schedule

Office Of International Services & Programs

3200 C Main St., Houston, TX 77002
First Floor of H.C.C. Parking Garage
14
15
 Virtual Check-In for New Arrivals
Attention all new F-1 students! You must
report immediately to H.C.C. when you arrive
in the United States.

Prepare copies of the following documents

in PDF format and email them.
to oiss.international@hccs.edu and your
assigned D.S.O. Include your HCC ID and
"Check-in" in the
email's subject matter.
8. Completed International Student Check-
In Form
9. Form I-20*
10. Passport (photo page)
11. Visa page
12. I-94 - you can print your Most Recent I-
94 at https://i94.cbp.dhs.gov. If you
receive an error that your I-94 was "Not
Found," follow the directions in this
document to request a correction to your
I-94 record: I-94 Correction Instructions
13. Receipt of online payment for the
$50.00 orientation fee – you can pay this
with a credit card online through
the PeopleSoft / Student Account sign-
in. For more information,
see International Payment Tutorial
14. Receipt of SEVIS fee I-901. You can
retrieve the receipt
from http://www.fmjfee.com/. (for
travel reinstatement only)

*Provide this document for all dependents (spouse/ children) on an F-2 visa
**Citizens of Canada and Bermuda should provide a copy of the passport entry stamp indicating D/S.

Your D.S.O. will review all documents and guide you through your New Arriving F-1 Student
Steps.

16
What Should I Do After Entering U.S?
3- TAKE THE TESTS DETERMINED BY YOUR DSO OR
ACADEMIC ADVISOR.

International students planning to enroll in academic programs must

demonstrate English language proficiency.
• English Proficiency can be demonstrated by successfully passing
one of the following exams: TOEFL, IELTS, P.T.E. Academic,
TOEIC, Duo lingo, Accuplacer (E.S.L.), or an approved T.S.I. test.
• Exam scores should be dated within the past two years and must
meet state and institutional requirements for placement into
college-level classes.
• Students not meeting these requirements must enroll in the
Intensive English Program or Academic English as a Second
Language.
• Students who graduated from an English-speaking high school in
one of the following countries do not need proof of English
proficiency:
American Samoa, Australia, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Bermuda,
Canada (except Quebec), Dominica, Grenada, Grand Cayman,
Guyana, Ireland, Jamaica, Liberia, New Zealand, Trinidad/Tobago,
United Kingdom, and U.S. Pacific Trust.
• More information on English Requirements and Testing
Once you have met the English language proficiency requirement,
you must take the T.S.I. exam to determine whether you are
ready to take college-level classes. Depending on your results, you
may have to take one or two developmental courses in the areas that
need additional improvement, i.e., English or Mathematics (Your
Academic Advisor will authorize this).

13
What Should I Do After Entering U.S?
4- VISIT ACADEMIC ADVISOR

Those requiring the ACCUPLACER must visit your Academic Advisor after receiving
your ACCUPLACER test scores or after your Check-In. They can provide additional
information regarding class registration.

Meet your Academic Advisor in H.C.C. Virtual Lobby:

https://cdn.virtuallobby.hccs.edu/index.html

5-ENROLL IN CLASSES

• If you place into E.S.L. (levels 1-2), any campus's E.S.L. department can help
you register and enroll in classes. Follow the instructions provided by the
E.S.L. department.

• If you place out of E.S.L. (levels 3-4), you can register for classes online via
your H.C.C. student account (How to Register? Tutorial).

• If you require further assistance, an Academic Advisor at any campus can help
you with your first time.

• If you take the T.S.I., you will meet an Academic Advisor to review your
scores and determine your course selections.

14
What Should I Do After Entering U.S?
5- UPDATE YOUR HCC STUDENT HOMEPAGE
Your H.C.C. Student homepage gives access to your checklist, holds, message center, class
search, academic records, profile, financial account, and others. After becoming an F-1 student
and arriving in Houston, you should update your H.C.C. student Homepage.
• Go to www.hccs.edu and click on My Eagle Student Sign-in
• Click on Student Sign-In
• Enter your User ID and Password. (If you forget your password, click "Reset My
Password" to reset your password).
• Click on Checklist
• The f-1 Student Checklist should be empty; however, if you have some items missing, please
upload them here.

• H.C.C. Policy Checklist may have four tasks; please follow the instructions and
complete each.
• On-Boarding Checklist will have one task: update contact information. Please keep your
contact information up to date. Your address, phone number, email address, and emergency
contact information are required. Any communication from the college sent to the name and
mailing address or email on record is considered adequately delivered. It is the student's
responsibility to keep their contact information current.
• Holds: There are positive and negative Holds, for example:
• F-1 student means that you are an international student, which is a positive hold. This type
of hold will not prevent you from registering for classes!
• Intl. Stdnt. Advisement Req.: You need to report the initial entry in the U.S. It is a negative
hold and will be removed after your check-In.
• Explore your student homepage to become better acquainted with it.

15
What Should I Do After Entering U.S?
6- PAY FOR YOUR TUITION AND FEES + INSURANCE.
1. Pay online. Go to the H.C.C. Student Homepage.
• On the Student Home Page, click on Financial Account.
• Select Make a Pymnt/Set up Pymnt Plan. Complete the payment plan
enrollment as directed.
• Enter credit card/checking account information.
• Enter a student's email address.
• Review information.
• Submit payment.
• Receive confirmation that payment has been accepted.
• If the credit card is declined, a student may repeat the process using a
different credit card.

2. Pay in Person
1. Students may pay by check or money order at any cashier's window. Some
locations may accept cash.
2. You can find business office locations in the below link
3. https://www.hccs.edu/applying-and-paying/student-financial-
services/connect-with-bursar-cashier business-offices/

3. International payments H.C.C. has partnered with Flywire to offer

students an innovative and streamlined way to make international
payments. Through Flywire, students can pay with their home currency
(in most cases), and payments are posted more quickly. Students are
notified via email when payment is received. You can learn more about
Flywire in the below link.
International Payment Tutorial (Flywire)

4. Scholarships or pay by a third party If students receive a tuition waiver

or tuition is billed to a company or agency. Those students must present
the waiver to pay in business office locations. The remaining balance
should be paid in full, or a Payment Plan must be set up.
5. Installment Payment Plan H.C.C. makes education affordable to
students. Students can pay tuition and fees in whole or in installments.
More information in the below link
https://www.hccs.edu/applying-and-paying/student-financial-services/make-
installment-payments-over-time/

16
What Should I Do After Entering U.S?
7- VISIT YOUR CAMPUS

An excellent idea before starting your classes should be to visit the

campus(es) you will be attending to get a good idea of the distance you
must travel to attend your classes!
 Go to myeagle.hccs.edu and print your academic schedule. Find your
campus on your phone (Google Maps, Apple Maps, Waze, etc.)
 To plan your travel time, visit your campus to find the location of your
classrooms, library, computer labs, cafeterias, etc.
 Always be on time!

17
18
What Should I Do After Entering the U.S.?
8- ATTEND AT THE INTERNATIONAL STUDENT ORIENTATION

Attending the International Student Orientation is necessary for your success as a

student! This orientation provides valuable resources and information to help you
succeed academically, personally, and in your overall experience at H.C.C.

You can find information about the F-1 Student Orientation in your acceptance
packet or at https://www.hccs.edu/support-services/international-
students/orientation

It's important to note that the International Student Orientation is mandatory for all
incoming New, Change-of-Status, Transfer, and Reinstatement F-1 international
students.
Please make sure to arrive on time for the orientation, as students who arrive late may
not be able to attend and may have to reschedule.
It's also crucial that you attend the entire orientation, as failure to do so will result in a
hold on your student account, preventing you from enrolling in classes next term.

You will receive an email from oiss.international@hccs.edu with instructions for the
orientation registration process.

19
 What Type Of Transportation Options Are
Available In Houston?
The City of Houston covers an expansive area of more than 40 miles.
People often say, "Without a car, you are lost in Houston." Many areas,
however, are accessible by bus. Owning an automobile is a great
convenience, but it may also prove to be an expensive option.

• You do not need a vehicle if you live near your campus or a bus service route.
• Another possibility is to use a hybrid system, such as a bike or a bus.
• Should you opt to own a car, please keep in mind the following:
• Every driver must obtain a Texas Driver's License, and all owners of automobiles
are required by Texas law to carry insurance.

Over time, you will learn more about Houston traffic and how to travel to
different locations.

Houston has a unique public bus service called

Metro Rail or Metro Bus
What Bus • Houston Community College and METRO have
a partnership that allows students to get the
Ride discount "HCC METRO Student Q Card." The
card provides students with a 50 percent fare
Services Are discount.
Available? • Read about the Program by visiting the
following link: Metro Q Card
• To know about routes, schedules, and fares,
• Click on the following link: Metro Home.
20
Owning or Renting a Bike
Bicycles are becoming an increasingly affordable and accessible mode
of transportation in Houston!
• They are a physically and environmentally healthier alternative if you
wear a helmet, use a bell and a flashing light, and pay close attention
to your surroundings.
• You can still take advantage of the City's growing bike share
program. The Program is expected to triple in size in the following
years.
• Houston BCycle has 56 bike stations throughout central Houston,
including two on the H.C.C. campus.
• Read more about the Program at the following link:
• https://houston.bcycle.com/

What Are The Rideshare Services In Houston?

In addition to taxi services, there are other convenient
rideshares for local travel.
 Arro – https://www.ridearro.com/
 Lyft – https://www.lyft.com
 MetroLift https://www.ridemetro.org/Pages/METROLift.aspx

 Uber – https://www.uber.com
 zTrip – https://www.ztrip.com/
21
 How Do I Get
A Driver
License?

F-1 students and their dependents may be eligible to drive a

vehicle while residing in the United States. However, those who
wish to drive a car first must apply for and receive a driver's
license.
WHEN TO APPLY?

F-1 students must be in the U.S. to You will receive a (Continued

start the application. Attendance) I-20 Form after you
have enrolled for classes.
F-1 students must wait in the U.S.
(Houston) longer than 30 days Before obtaining a driver's license,
before submitting their application. you must appear in the D.P.S. data
system. As an F-1 Student, this will
F-1 students must have a not occur until you have been
(Continued Attendance) I-20 registered in SEVIS - which will
Form. It differs from your (Initial) I- happen after the beginning of the
I20 form (I-20 used to enter the first second start of your first semester
time in the U.S.). at H.C.C. (To see when the second
start is, visit the H.C.C. Calendar.)

REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION
• Your SEVIS I-20 Form (Continued Attendance) with the port of entry stamp.
• I-94 (if you do not have an I-94, you may print it at https://i94.cbp.dhs.gov/I94/
• Visa and passport
• Three (3) documents that show proof of residency in Texas for at least 30 days.
 Electric bill, bank statement, and cable bill with your name and address.
 If your name does not appear on your bills, your roommate may accompany
you to the Department of Public Safety (D.P.S.) with proof of their residency
and sign an affidavit form stating you live with them.
Link for driver's license website http://www.dps.texas.gov/DriverLicense/
22
How Do I Get a Driver License?
APPLICATION PROCESS
1. Study the information about traffic laws in the Texas Driver's
Handbook from the Department of Public Safety (D.P.S.).
2. Prepare the required documents and forms.
3. Present your application, submit your documents, and pay fees
(Approx. $40) at the D.S.P. office.
4. Texas residency documents with your name must be dated over
30 days old but less than 90 days old.
5. You must provide your vehicle when taking the driving test, and
the car must have insurance.
6. Take the written and practical examinations for driving.
7. If your driver's license is approved, you will receive a temporary
license as soon as you pass your driving test. Your driver's license
card will be delivered by mail within 45 days.

23
 What Are Some Things to Consider
If I Choose to Buy A Car?
Owning a car is not simple; you will be responsible for registration, insurance, inspections,
license tag renewal, and maintenance.
There are many dealers in Houston for new and used cars. Buying a car from a private owner
may be cheaper but is also riskier. It is essential to determine the seller's reliability before
purchasing a vehicle.
• Get an overview of used car prices. Beneficial free sites are
 https://www.edmunds.com/
 https://www.kbb.com/

• Webs to ask about the seller

 https://www.bbb.org
 https://www.yelp.com/
 https://www.google.com/maps

• Before having a test drive: Find out if you
need liability insurance. In some cases, the
current owner's insurance will cover any • When buying the car: Take the amount of
driver. Many times, however, if you want to
drive on public streets, you will need your
liability policy first.
• If possible, have the car inspected by a
mechanic before you commit to buying.
• Before buying the car: Get all the
information on automobile insurance
policies, including liability, comprehensive,
and collision costs for the vehicle model,
make, and year. Get the vehicle
identification number. Ask for the car's
Title ("Certificate of Title"). All the
information needed to inquire about
insurance for this car will appear on the
Title. (This will also prove that the person •
selling you the vehicle is the owner).
Necessary: Make sure that no liens are
recorded on the Title. (If money is owed
on the car, another name will appear in the
space for "lienholder.") In addition, the
"clear" Title (no debts are held against the
vehicle) is blue, and the temporary Title
(proof of sole ownership has not yet been
issued) is red.
• Decide with the insurance company you
have chosen to begin the coverage,
especially the liability insurance required
by law before you meet with the
seller to finalize the transaction.
money agreed upon and, in the Form,
decided upon (cash, check, etc.) to the pre-
arranged site of the sale. Complete the
paper titled "Bill of Sale and Invoice." Both
buyer and seller must sign. It is preferable
to have the signatures notarized, but if
there is no notary at the sale site, taking
someone with you who can witness the
transaction is a good idea. Complete the
form "Application for Texas Certificate of
Title." Be sure the instructions are printed
on the back of the state — the seller signs
on line 22; the buyer signs on line 23. The
buyer and seller also sign on the indicated
lines on the back of the Title.
After buying the car: Take the Title,
"Application for Texas Certificate of Title,"
and the "Bill of Sale and Invoice" to a
Harris County Tax Office. You will pay a fee
and the sales tax on the vehicle
(approximately 6.25% of the car's sales
price) to transfer the Title to you, the new
owner. The seller need not go to the Tax
Office with you. You should receive your
Title by mail within 4 to 6 weeks.
 https://www.txdmv.gov/motorists/regist
er-your-vehicle
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 How Do I Open a Bank Account?
You will need money or access to cash, especially during the first
weeks in the U.S. Choose a Bank.
Ask if you can connect or link the bank account with your or your
parent's account in your home country. You can easily access
and manage money wherever and whenever needed for books,
supplies, and other expenses.
Some banks allow you to start your application from your home
country or online.

TYPES OF BANK ACCOUNTS

There are two main types of bank accounts in the U.S. They are:
 Checking Accounts: These allow you to deposit and withdraw money frequently. They
are a great way to pay your monthly bills and spend daily. When you open a checking
account, it usually comes with a checkbook and a bank card. Generally, minimum
monthly balances and service fees vary depending on your account type. Most
international students only need a checking account to manage living expenses at
school.
 Savings Accounts: These are for longer-term deposits for accruing interest. As an
international student, you will probably not need a savings account. The interest
rates, minimum balances, and service fees will vary from one bank to another.

REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION

1. Your full name, home address, home telephone number,

campus telephone number, and college address
2. Valid ID: Passport and Student Visa
3. Any secondary form of identification (such as your student
I.D. card, birth certificate, driver's license, etc.)
4. Proof of F-1 Status: Student Visa, H.C.C. acceptance letter, I-
20 Form.
5. A utility bill dated less than three months or your last three
banks or any government-issued document, including your
address, as one example: your phone bill.
6. Cash for the initial deposit.
7. These requirements may differ slightly across banks, so check
your bank's needs before heading over.

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 Why live in Houston, TX?
Houston is an ethnically diverse growing city with a booming job market, an incredible food scene
with much to do, and an affordable cost of living.
Houston is one of the largest U.S. cities boasting an ethnically diverse metropolitan area with a
large percentage of the population of Hispanic, African American, and Asian origins.
 With 2.3 million residents, Houston is the fourth largest City in the United States. More than
145 languages are spoken here, the third largest in the U.S. More than a third of Houstonians
older than five speak a language other than English at home.
 Houston also has a large population of young people. Approximately 22.1% of residents are
aged 5 to 19, making it the largest population segment.
 The job market in Houston has a strong job market in industries such as oil and gas,
aerospace, manufacturing, and healthcare; Houston is home to the world's largest medical
complex.
 Houston has a very active social scene, including sports, museums, family-friendly activities,
and professional sports teams. Houston also has numerous museums, theatres, arenas, and the
beach!

 Houston's cost of living is reasonable and affordable. The median rental price of one and two-
bedroom apartments are between $1,100 and $1,350, respectively. This makes Houston a
cheaper place to rent an apartment than in over 40 major U.S. cities.
 The Green Scene is also thriving in the fourth largest City in the country, as Houston has a
remarkable abundance of parks, scenic bike trails, and other outdoor spaces.
 Texas has been named one of the ten best places to live in the U.S., and several Houston area
suburbs were ranked in the top 50 safest cities in Texas for 2018. (By U.S. News and World

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 Local Activities in Houston
Houston is a dynamic mix of imagination, talent, and first-class attractions, making it a
world-class city. It is home to a vibrant economy, beautiful surroundings, and a population
full of optimism and spirit, making Houston a popular international destination!
Houston is unique, intelligent, exciting, and vital as the people who call Houston home. To
know more about local events happening here and what you can do from day to day, here
are just a few links you can explore:
 https://www.houstoniamag.com/
 https://www.chron.com/
 https://www.houstontx.gov/index.html

Houston Climate
Houston's temperature climate sustains tropical vegetation and allows the City's
residents and visitors an enviable outdoor lifestyle.
Climate Facts
• Houston averages only 18.0 days per year with temperatures of 32°F or less and 99.6 days
with temperatures of 90°F or more. Temperatures in summer reach 100°F.

• Houston's growing season averages 300 days. The standard frost-free period extends
from February 14 to December 11.

• Statistically, the average year contains 90.3 "clear" days, concentrated in October and
November; 114.5 "partly cloudy" days, typical of June through September; and 160.3
"cloudy" days, every day from December through May.

• The prevailing wind in Houston is south-southeasterly at a mean speed of 7.4 mph.

• Hottest Month: August (95º Fahrenheit / 29 º Celsius)

• Coldest Months: January and December (54º Fahrenheit / 12 º Celsius)

• Wettest Month: July (5.2 inches)

To find out more about wheatear, please visit https://www.chron.com/weather/.

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Restaurants & Entertainment
With 10,000 restaurants representing cuisine from more than 70 countries and American
regions, Houston's restaurant scene is as ethnically diverse as its more than 6 million
residents. With so many options, it is not surprising that visitors leave the City with plenty
of good things to say about dining in Houston.
By Tasting Table magazine, Houston was named the "newest capital of great food" by
Food & Wine and the country's most exciting food city. To learn more, please visit
https://www.visithoustontexas.com/restaurants-and-bars/.

• Houston is one of the few U.S. cities with theater, ballet, symphony, and opera resident
companies, with exciting performances all season long. Houstonians receive an extra artistic bonus
since two or more entities often perform together, producing even more phenomenal production.
• Located downtown, the 17-block Theater District has eight performing arts organizations and over
12,000 seats. Only New York City has more centers concentrated in one geographic area.
Throughout Houston, a growing number of venues make performances easily accessible. Houston
also shows its devotion to the arts through a full complement of museums and critically acclaimed
galleries. Almost midway between Reliant Stadium and downtown, Houston's Museum District
offers a range of museums, galleries, and art and cultural institutions, including the City's major
museums. Approximately 4 million people visit it every year.
• See Theatre District and Selected Museum District events at www.houstontx.gov/events.

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Why study at Houston
Community College?
• Community colleges are U.S. postsecondary schools that primarily offer two-year
programs of study; these programs lead to an associate degree. These schools can
provide affordable postsecondary education and an entry pathway to a four-year
degree. Once a student completes the two years of academic study, many moves
on to the university level to complete their bachelor's degree. In the U.S., millions of
regular students and thousands of international students attend a community
college for the first two years of postsecondary study and then proceed to a
university to do the next two years because there are many benefits to this option in
comparison to studying all four years at a university. Therefore, community colleges
offer significantly lower tuition rates, smaller classes, and strong student.
support. This is why they often serve as pathways to prestigious four-year
universities. In the U.S., students can quickly transfer from one college or university
to another.
• Houston Community College is an accredited educational institution that awards
associate degrees and Certifications in an academic field of study, career, and
technology programs in more than 70 fields. We have 283 different degrees and
certificates. These educational courses will enable you to transfer to many
universities in the U.S. with an associate degree.
• As one of the largest and finest community colleges in the U.S., H.C.C. attracts
students with diverse educational goals who reside in many parts of the world. Our
college has the largest F-1 student population among the Community Colleges in
the U.S.

29
 For Further Reading: Visa Interview
Possible Questions
In this section, you will find examples of possible questions you may be asked at your
interview. Please review them and be prepared to be asked several of them in your
interview.
FINANCES

COLLEGE & UNIVERSITY • Who is paying for your education?

• What is the name of the college or university you plan • How are they able to pay for it? What is their
on attending, and tell us why you chose to attend that professional background?
specific college?
• How many universities did you apply to, and what was • Tell us more about your father's/mother's profession,
the reasoning for each? income, and how long they have worked for their
employer.
• What are the names of the universities to which you
have applied? • What is the monthly income of the person who will
sponsor your studies?
• Did you get accepted to all of them?
• What are the colleges or universities to which you were • Tell us more about your sponsor's annual income.
accepted?
• How much does your university cost per year?
• What is the name and location of the school and
university where you completed your undergraduate or • Will your sponsor pay for the total, or will you also get a
graduate degree?
loan?
• What was your academic G.P.A. or Percentage?
• Please show us your current bank statement.
• Tell us more about your chosen college: Where is it,
and which degree are you planning to study? • How will you pay for your education and living
expenses if you stay for two or three years?
• Tell us the name of the professors you are in contact
with from a U.S. College or University.
• According to your bank statements, there have been
• In what year did you get your High School Diploma? recent deposits of large sums of money; please explain.
• What are some reasons for choosing to study in the
United States? RELATIVES & FAMILY MEMBERS
• How long are you planning to stay in the United States?
• In which country and City do your parents live?
• Why did you apply to this college as opposed to another
one? Moreover, how did you learn about this college? • Does either of your parents' work? If they do not, what
do they do for a living?
• Tell us more about your academic background.
• Will your parents be able to afford your education
• After you complete your associate degree, are you abroad in the United States?
planning on pursuing a bachelor's degree in the
U.S.?
• Do you have siblings? If so, how many?
• The major you have chosen is also offered at other
universities; why did you choose this college and not one • Do you have siblings or other relatives living in the
of the others?
United States?

• What is your brother/sister doing in the United States,

WORK & JOB
• If you currently have a job, why do you plan to leave
your current job to study abroad?
• Please show us your CV or any other paper
demonstrating your work experience.
and where?
• Would you also like to stay in the U.S. to work?
• Why does your brother/sister live in the United States?
Do they work or study?

• What is your current salary?
• Do you have any savings?
• Once you finish your studies, do you plan to work in the
United States?
• Do you plan on working while you study?
• Did any members of your immediate family complete
any educational degrees in the U.S.? What was their
focus of study?
• Do you have any relatives studying at the same
university you plan to attend?
30
 For Further Reading: Visa Interview
Possible Questions
In this section, you will find examples of possible questions you may be asked at your
interview. Please review them and be prepared to be asked several of them in your
interview.

GENERAL QUESTIONS

• What are your reasons for wanting to study in the U.S.?
• Why did you pursue studies in the U.S. instead of
Canada or another country?
• Tell me some positive things about the United States and
why you like the United States as a country.
• What are your expectations after completing your studies
and returning to your country?
• Why do you want to complete an associate degree,
Certificate, or take English classes?
• Can you tell me why your TOEFL scores are so low?
• What are your career goals in your home country after
you complete your studies? Alternatively, are you
planning on going somewhere else?
• Why did you choose this college? Do you know anyone
who studies there?
• What are your alternative plans if your student visa is not
approved?
• Are you planning to go home during your summer
vacation?
• We can see that you received a scholarship; why do you
think it was awarded to you?

• Do you want to immigrate to the United States, or are
you planning on returning home after completing your
study plan?
• Tell us everything you know about the educational
system in the U.S.
• What are your plans after having completed your studies
in the U.S.?
• Why do you not want to pursue your studies in your
home country?
• Can you explain why you changed your field of study and
career path?
• Why should we allow you to study in the United States?
• Do you think you deserve to get an F1 visa?

• How can you prove that you will not stay in the U.S.
after completing your studies?
• Is this your first visit to the U.S., or have you
visited before?
Although this list may seem extensive, it is essential to
remember that this is merely a sampling of the questions that
could be asked during your interview.

31
 International Services and Programs

hccs.edu/international
713.718.8521
3200 C Main St. Houston, TX 77002
(First Floor of HCC Parking Garage)
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83038182315

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