Foreign Student Handbook
Prepared by Foreign Student & Scholar Services (July 2004)

The University of Montana does not discriminate in admission or access to programs, or in employment policies on the basis of race, sex, national origin or ancestry, marital status, creed, religion, color, sexual preference, political ideas, age, or mental or physical disability. The University accepts applications from in-state, out-of-state, domestic and foreign students. The school is authorized, under Federal law, to enroll non-immigrant alien students.

Welcome to The University of Montana!

      We wish to extend to each new and returning student and scholar a warm and cordial welcome. During your stay here, we hope you will attain your educational goals and acquire necessary knowledge and skills. We also encourage you to take full advantage of the many opportunities provided by the University and the community of Missoula to enrich your life and develop lasting friendships. 

      Adjusting to life in another country can be challenging. This handbook has been prepared in order to facilitate adjustment to your new environment. It consists of information and advice on academic matters, available services, social relations and immigration rules. Preparation of this booklet has been greatly facilitated by resource people on this campus who offered constructive comments and provided valuable information. The Handbook does not attempt to answer specific questions or cover all situations you may encounter.

      Your academic adviser, University staff, professors, fellow students and colleagues, as well as the staff of our office also are available to assist you in various aspects of your life here. We hope you will attempt to get acquainted with them and make full use of their services. 

      Our best wishes for a successful educational experience at The University of Montana! 

Sincerely,  

Foreign Student and Scholar Services
Lommasson Center 219
(406) 243-2226
E-mail: fsss@mso.umt.edu
Internet: www.umt.edu/fsss

Table of Contents

I.  CAMPUS LIFE
About The University of Montana
Academic Affairs
Student Conduct Code
Special Courses and Study Aids
The Davidson Honors College
The Griz Card
Libraries
Books

II. CAMPUS SERVICES
Foreign Student and Scholar Services
Financial Aid
University College/Multicultural Adviser
Curry Health Center
            Medical
            Dental
            Counseling & Psychological Services (CAPS)
            Student Assault Resource Center (SARC)
            Health Enhancement Department
            Health Insurance
Griz Central
Housing
Escort Service
Career Services
Internship Services
Disability Services for Students
University Center (UC)
International House
Office of International Programs
Rentals
Computers
Facsimile (Fax)
Lost and Found
Copying

III. CAMPUS ACTIVITIES
Associated Students of UM (ASUM)
International Student Association (ISA)
Campus Ministries
Sports
Recreation
Entertainment
Campus Traditions

IV. SOCIAL LIFE
Social Customs
Social Invitations and Business Appointments
Community Friendship Programs
Interpreting Your Country (Speakers’ Bureau)
Social Activities
Holidays

V.  IMMIGRATION REGULATIONS
Documents     
            Passport
            Visa
            I-20
            DS-2019
            I-94
Maintaining Proper Status
            Duration of Status (D/S)
            Reporting Change of Address
            Full Course of Study
            Extension of Program
            Report Departure
            Report Transfer Plans
            Report Major or Level Changes
            Report Dependents
Overstay
Reinstatement to F-1 Student Status
Reinstatement to J-1 Student/Scholar Status
Re-entry to the U.S. after a Temporary Absence
School Transfer for F-1
Program Transfer for J-1
Employment for F-1 Students
            On-Campus Employment
            Off-Campus Employment
            Spouses and Children
Practical Training for F-1 Students
            Curricular Practical Training
            Optional Practical Training
Employment for J-1 Students/Scholars
            J-1 Students
            J-1 Scholars
            Spouses and Children
J-1 and Their Dependents
J Visa: Two Year Home Residence Requirement

VI. GENERAL INFORMATION
Welcome to Missoula
            Population
            Weather
            Missoula and Montana links
Public Transportation
            Bicycle
            Bus
            Taxi
Automobiles
            Driver’s License
            International Driver’s License & Foreign Driver’s License
            Vehicle Registration and Insurance
            Maintenance
            Driver Responsibilities
Airlines
Trains
Mailing Services
            United States Postal Service (USPS)
            Others:  UPS, FedEx, DHL
            Other Shipping Tips
Money and Banking
            US Currency
            Checking and Savings Accounts
            Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) and Check/Debit Cards
            Traveler’s Checks and Money Orders
Dates
Taxes
            Income Tax
            Sales Tax
Social Security Number
Medical Care
            Health Insurance
            Hospitals/Clinics
            Prescription Medications
            Over-the-counter Medications
            Emergencies
Your Family
            Child Care
            Schools
            Adult Education and Other Activities
            Medical Insurance
            Babysitting
Communication
            Telephones
                        On-Campus
                        Off-Campus (Local Residential Line)
            Long Distance/International Calls
            Cellular Phones                     
Living in Missoula
            Off-Campus Housing
            Lease Agreements and Rental Contracts
            Utilities
            Shopping
            Tipping
            Solicitors
            Restaurants
            Food
            Political Activity
            Hunting and Fishing Licenses
            Time
Weights and Measures

VII. EMERGENCY NUMBERS
Student Services Numbers