International Student Affairs (ISA)

As a main resource for international students, the counselor in the International Student Affairs Office, will advise individuals and the institution on visa regulations, academic support services, social, and cultural adjustment process; and facilitate intercultural learning across the campus.

We focus on:

• Admissions:  F-1 visa admission to Bakersfield College
• Immigration: Guidance on the visa process and F-1 immigration regulations
• Academic counseling/advising,
• Cultural adjustment: Assist with social security number, driver's license, housing, work on/off campus and other resources for families of F-1 visa holders
• Cross- Cultural Skills adjustment: F-1 Orientation,  International Student Organization (ISO) and other educational programs to facilitate across global learning

Need Assistance?

Consult with the ISA counselor:

Walk-In Advising (no appointment needed)

ISA Office #37
Mondays/Wednesdays: 10:00 a.m.-noon and 2:00pm -4:00 pm
Tuesdays/Thursdays: 9:30 a.m.-11:30 am & 1:30-3:30 p.m.

Appointments:

Schedule 30 minutes appointment with the counselor at least one day in advance.

Phone: 661-395-4652

SEVIS Regulations Regarding F-1 Students

1. Full Time Status (D/S):  A student who drops below 12 credits each semester without prior approval from the International Student Services Official will be out of status and will be reported to the SEVIS accordingly.
2. Online Courses: Only one Distance Learning/Online course may be counted toward the 12-credit requirement.
3. Dropping Out: If you withdrawal from courses, you must depart US immediately.
4. Travel and Visa Renewal: If you plan to travel out of U.S. on student visa at any time, bring your I-20 to the ISA office for travel endorsement..
5. Employment: You may not engage in an employment without the permission of International Student Affairs Office.
6. Optional Practical training (OPT): Upon graduation from BC, you may qualify for  authorized for practical training (OPT). Please check with ISA Office for details.
7. Curricular Practical Training (CPT) employment that is integral part of your major, may be authorized for qualified students.
8. Change of Address report: report any change of address within 10 days of change.

Transferring out

If you wish to transfer to another U.S. campus, you must complete and submit the F-1 Transfer-Out Request.

Transfer Eligibility

• You are in a legal F-1 status
• You are a full time student at BC  (minimum 12 units)
• You have an Acceptance letter from the school with your name and the term of your admision on school letterhead
• All fees owed to BC are paid in full and cleared
• You are not enrolled, or have dropped before form is submitted, in the upcoming term

New Students

• What you need to know: New Student Information
• BC Admission Form (Must complete before coming to the U.S.)
• International Student Orientation