PennWest students in Valencia Spain

International Education Office

Your Gateway to Global Engagement

The International Education Office serves as a hub for global learning at PennWest. We provide support and guidance for incoming F-1 and J-1 international students from acceptance through graduation. Our office also promotes study abroad programs for domestic and international students to gain global experience and broaden their perspectives.

International Student Services

The IEO can assist with:

Four international students celebrate commencement at PennWest
International students recognized at commencement ceremony
  • Next steps after acceptance, including your Form I-20
  • Travel endorsement signature on Form I-20
  • Preparing for your arrival in the U.S.
  • F-1 and J-1 visa guidance
  • On-campus employment information
  • Getting a driver’s license
  • Health insurance requirements
  • Course registration (as it relates to your visa status)
  • Connecting you with campus resources such as tutoring, health and counseling services, and disability support

1. Complete the admissions process for Accepted International Students:

Learn More

2. Notify internationaled@pennwest.edu of the results of your visa appointment; If your visa is denied, we ask that you still contact us, as there are other options available to you.

Maintaining VISA Status 

We can begin your next steps of enrollment once you are approved for your visa. It is important that you notify us of your visa approval to avoid delays in beginning your next steps. 

1. Complete Placement Testing: This is required before your first semester schedule can be created. If you have any questions regarding Placement Testing, please email Claire Pizer at pizer@pennwest.edu

Learn More

2. Make your travel plans: You will receive a Welcome Packet that is written specifically for your campus location by email. The nearest airport to each of our PennWest campuses is listed in your Welcome Packet. 

3. Provide your arrival plans: Email the following to internationaled@pennwest.edu:

  • Airline and flight number
  • U.S. arrival date and time* (no more than 30 days prior to program start)
  • Campus arrival date and time* (no more than 7 days prior to program start)

NOTE: If you will need transportation from the local airport, please email internationaled@pennwest.edu before you schedule your flight. 

4. Submit your application for housing and your meal plan*

5. Register for the New International Student Information Session* (Required); the itinerary for the session will be provided at least 2 weeks prior to the date of the event.  

6. Review the Pre-Arrival checklist*

* details in Welcome Packet

 

Study Abroad Services

The IEO can assist with:

Group of study abroad students pose with Valencia sign
Group of PennWest students take advantage of study abroad in Valencia, Spain
  • Guidance on faculty-led (short-term) study abroad programs
  • Assistance with independent (long-term) study abroad options
  • Information on study abroad scholarships
  • Collaborative support with other university offices to ensure all questions are answered and students have a comprehensive plan before departing the U.S.

Explore Study Abroad

 

Contact Us

Hours and Locations

The International Education Office is open during the fall, spring, winter and summers: 

Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. EST

California

107 Noss Hall

Clarion 

310-311 Becht Hall

Edinboro

263 Baron-Forness Library

 

Making Appointments

Appointments are generally available within 3 business days, via in-person, Zoom, Teams, or by phone. 

Phone: 724-938-5833
Email: internationaled@pennwest.edu 

Director

Linda Pavlitsa, P.D.S.O., R.O.
Email: pavlitsa_l@pennwest.edu 
Phone: 724-938-5833
Mailing Address:
250 University Avenue
Campus Box 25
California, PA 15419