International Student Orientation

Are there specific times when my flight should arrive?

Move-in for new international students is Thursday, January 5, 2023. You must arrive to the Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE) by that date. To ensure that staff will be available to pick you up from the airport, please try to arrive by 6 p.m.

What happens if I have to arrive before those dates?

If you have to arrive before the dates given on your international student profile or exchange student application, it is your responsibility to arrange for temporary housing at a local hotel. On-campus housing will not be available before January 5, 2023. A general pick-up from the hotel will be arranged on the first arrival day listed.

How will I get from the airport to the Baldwin Wallace campus?

Once admitted, incoming international students are required to complete a series of forms on their international student profile (for degree-seeking students) or exchange student application (exchange students), one of which asks for arrival information. ISS can provide transportation from Cleveland Hopkins International Airport to campus before orientation. An ISS staff member will meet you at baggage claim (with your name on a board) and take you to campus in a BW vehicle. If you do not share your arrival information by the deadline given, airport pick-up is not guaranteed.

Is orientation mandatory?

Yes, a lot of important information is covered during orientation to help ensure a successful transition to BW.

What information is covered during orientation?

Orientation covers many topics including F-1 visa regulations, BW technology, American money and banking, an introduction to campus and its resources, and more. If there is something that isn’t covered in orientation that you want to know, you can ask International Student Services staff.

Will I have any free time to explore BW/Berea during orientation?

Depending on your arrival date/time, there will be plenty of time for you to explore BW and Berea on your own before orientation begins. Once orientation starts, most of your time is scheduled, though you will have some time to yourself in the evening.

How is orientation scheduled?

The orientation schedule is very full to ensure that we provide you with all of the information you need, in a short amount of time. Each day is a combination of informational sessions, paperwork and activities to get to know each other and the university. We will provide a schedule to you once you arrive.

Will I have to provide my own meals during orientation?

No, International Student Services will provide meals during orientation.

Am I able to change my meal plan?

You may be able to change your meal plan, but it depends on the exchange agreement with your home institution. You will have to ask International Student Services staff during orientation if you are able to change.

Am I able to stay on campus during breaks (e.g., Thanksgiving, winter break, and spring break)?

Yes, you are able to stay on campus as long as you complete a break application form on eRezlife.com. There is a cost for staying during breaks. More information will be available via email throughout the semester.