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We're glad to see you're interested in International Student and Scholar Services at Minnesota State University, Mankato. The ISSS, as we like to call ourselves, serves nearly 600 international students from over 50 countries. Once the Admissions Office accepts an international student, his/her papers are forwarded to us we have the pleasure of issuing the appropriate Immigration papers. An accepted international student will receive from us an I-20 or DS-2019 form, along with an International Student Information Sheet, a Residence Hall Application Form and an Immunization Form. The ISSS regularly reminds our International Students that each person must purchase health insurance before she/he may register for classes. We mention these forms and insurance as often as possible because they are tremendously important to every admitted international - these cover the legalities of staying in the United States, some basic health issues and gives each student a chance to reserve a place to stay well before s/he arrives in the U.S.
But that's not all the ISSS does. For current students at MSU, Mankato we act as staff support for the International Student Association, an organization that encompasses all international students. The ISA acts as an umbrella, covering the needs of and unifying the different country-specific clubs that are university recognized student organizations. The ISA sponsors specific nationality nights and international-focused celebrations, as well as providing leadership opportunities to our international students. Involvement with the ISA can lead to participation in student government, acting as a resource for classroom presentations, participating in international panels, and opportunities for public speaking. The ISSS is available as a resource to the ISA, so that international students at this university may gain the optimum experience from their U.S. education.
Should you have additional questions, please feel free to contact us:
Phone: 507-389-1281 (V) or 800-627-3529 (MRS/TTY)Sincerely,
Thomas C. Gjersvig, Director