Why do I need to arrive on Tuesday, August 15th? The information on the web says that New Student Orientation begins on Friday, August 16, 2013.

We hope that all international students are able to arrive on Thursday, August 15th so that they have time to travel from the airport to campus, get settled in to their campus dorm rooms and to get some rest before the events of New Student Orientation begin on Friday, August 16th.

Who is required to attend the New Student Orientation?

All incoming students, international and domestic, are required to come to New Student Orientation. This includes first year students, exchange students, and transfer students.

What am I going to do during orientation?

From Friday through Tuesday, you will attend required and optional sessions with all incoming Earlham students. You will meet with your faculty adviser to register for classes, meet your roommate and your Resident Assistant, and take a language placement test if applicable. Social events, shopping trips and some free time are also scheduled.

Will I be housed in a temporary room during orientation?

No, you move directly into the room that is assigned to you for Fall Semester by Residence Life.

Will I have time to go shopping and buy necessities during the orientation week?

Yes, you will have time to shop and buy necessities. Optional shopping trips are included in the schedule and transportation is provided.

What airport do I need to fly into?

Arrive at either Indianapolis International Airport in Indianapolis, Indiana (1.5 hours from Earlham) or Dayton International Airport in Dayton, Ohio (45 minutes from Earlham). Members of the NSO committee, who will bring you to campus and help you get settled in your room, will meet you at the airport.

What do I do if the airline loses my luggage?

Airlines occasionally lose baggage.  Airlines are usually able to track misplaced baggage in a few days and are quite responsible in making sure it gets to you safely.  Make sure that tags with your name, address and telephone number are both outside and inside of all baggage.  To prevent inconvenience in case of loss, carry sufficient items with you in a carry-on bag to get you through a day or two here (change of clothes, toothbrush, necessary toiletries, etc.).  Please note, however, that U.S. law restricts the amount of liquids and gels a person may carry on a plane to travel sizes (3 ounces / 88.24 ml or less) that fit together in a quart (2.84 liter) size clear plastic zip-top bag.

Make sure that all bags are well secured.  If your bag is lost or damaged, be sure to file a report with the airline before departing the airport. 

When can I register for Fall semester? How?

Registration for new students takes place during New Student Orientation. Your faculty adviser will instruct you on how to register for courses on-line.

What is the requirement for proof of immunizations?

Required self-reported immunizations include Measles (two doses after your first birthday), Mumps (one dose after your first birthday), Rubella (one dose after your first birthday), a Tetanus/Diphtheria booster within the past 10 years, Meningococcal Meningitis (within last 5 years), and a Tuberculosis skin test (within past 6 months). You will not be able to attend classes without proof of these immunizations.

What will my address be?

Your physical address will be c/o Earlham College, 801 National Road West, Richmond, IN 47374, USA. Later in the summer you will receive information on your mailing address to give to friends and family.

Where can I send packages to myself before I arrive?

Address your packages:

Your name
Drawer 202
c/o Earlham College IPO
801 National Road West
Richmond, IN 47374
USA

Write on the package “New international student, arriving 8/15/2013, hold for arrival.”

When does the Fall Semester start?

Classes begin on Wednesday, August 21st.

Can I apply for scholarships or loans from sources other than Earlham?

Yes, but scholarships from sources other than the institution the student is attending are rare and loans almost always require that a U.S. citizen or permanent resident co-sign.

Will I be able to stay on campus during vacation periods?

Yes, college housing is open year round for international students. There is no additional charge for vacation housing during winter break and other short-term vacation periods. There is a daily charge for summer housing. The fee is determined each year by the Residence Life Staff. The fee for summer 2013 is approximately $15/day. This does not include meals.

Can I receive additional financial aid if the financial status of my parents/sponsors changes and they cannot pay what was indicated on the Certification of Finances form?

No, if you have received a financial aid award, you will be able to renew your award each year as outlined in your acceptance letter; you will not receive additional financial assistance.

Do I have to fulfill the language requirement?

Students must complete two basic courses (a minimum of 10 semester hours) or demonstrate equivalent competency by examination in a designated second language. Your particular requirements will be determined when you arrive on campus.