Baldwin - Wallace College

Can I get into my dorm if I arrive before Orientation?
Yes.  The office of International Student Services will arrange the keys for you.  After the ambassadors pick you up at the airport, they will take you to your dorm.

When will I meet my academic advisor and register for classes?
You will meet your academic advisor and register for classes at Orientation.

Do you offer free pick up at the airport?
Yes, we do.

What is the procedure for a free pick up at the airport?
You need to call Ms. Rong Song at 440-826-2134 or email her at rsong@bw.edu  Give her your detailed flight information, such as airline, flight number, departure and arrival dates and the time you are arriving at the Hopkins International Airport in Cleveland, Ohio.

Should I bring  at least one traditional dress?
Yes.  We have Cultural Night every fall semester and  international students enjoy this wonderful opportunity to share their national/traditional dress with others.

How can I improve my written and oral English skills at BW?
You can register to take ESL 198 Speaking/Listening and ESL 199 Advance Grammar classes for 3 credits each.  All students with a TOEFL score below 523 are required to take both courses.Try not to be just with students from your own country, speak English, make international and American friends, join a club, and go to different activities on campus.

Will the school help me to adjust to the new environment?
Yes.  We will offer Orientation to all the international students to help you get familiar with the new environment and understand American culture and the education system. International Student Ambassadors will help you make a smoother adjustment to Baldwin-Wallace College and American life.   Due to the importance of Orientation, it is mandatory for all  new students to attend.

How many classes should I register for each semester?
As an F-1 student, you MUST be a full time student in order to maintain your F-1 student status.

• If you are an undergraduate student, you have to register for at least 12 credit hours per semester.
• If you are a graduate student, you have to register for at least 9 credit hours per semester.
  Otherwise you will be out of status.   It is your responsibility to maintain your status so that you are eligible for an F-1 student's benefits.

Can I work on campus?
Yes. As an F-1 student, you are allowed to work a maximum of 20 hours per week on campus while school is in session.  International students are not permitted to work off-campus without authorization.  More information regarding employment will be given at Orientation

What is the best way to meet American people and make new friends?
The best way is to get  involved in campus life.  You have to take the initiative and reach out.  You will make a lot more friends if you reach out than if you wait for others to come to you.  You can join a club according to your own interest or volunteer in the community, which is a great way to meet people and learn what volunteerism  is all about.

When should I pay my bill?
After you register for classes, you should receive a bill from the college (in about two weeks) which will explain when the bill is due and how much you should pay.  The DUE  DATE is the date by which you must pay your bill in full or you will have a finance charge.   You can also choose where you want to have the bill sent--to your parents or to you. 

Where should I pay my bill?
Pay your bill at the Casher’s Office in the Bonds Administration Building.