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International Students

Your global journey starts here. We’ll guide you through visas, cultural transitions, and campus life so you are supported every step of the way.
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Welcome to Skidmore

Whether you are an international student or a U.S. citizen living abroad, we’re here to support you from your first day to graduation. Our team provides guidance on F-1 visas and I-20s, cultural adjustment, employment questions, and more. You’ll find a caring community ready to help you succeed. 

Learn more about applying to Skidmore

Four international students stand in a line talking with the various flags in the background hanging from the ceiling of Case Center.

International Student Orientation

Each year, we host International Student Orientation (ISO) to help you settle into campus life and ease your transition to studying in the U.S. You’ll be welcomed by Global Mentors — upper-class students who’ve been in your shoes — and Skidmore’s international support team. ISO is your chance to make friends, explore Saratoga Springs, and start feeling at home before classes even begin.
Learn more

Getting started: I-20s and orientation

  • If you need an F-1 visa to study at Skidmore, we’ll guide you through the I-20 process. Learn more about visas.
  • Each fall, we host International Student Orientation (ISO) — a chance to settle in, meet Global Mentors, and connect with new friends while exploring Saratoga Springs. Learn more about Orientation. 

Career preparation and employment

All Skidmore students, including F-1 visa holders, can work on campus. From Dining Services to research roles, on-campus employment offers valuable experience. We also provide guidance on:

  • Curricular Practical Training (CPT): Off-campus internships related to your field of study
  • Optional Practical Training (OPT): Up to one year of post-graduate work authorization (with a two-year STEM extension available)

Learn more about employment opportunities

Student sits near their brick engraved with their name on Case Walkway

Friendship Families

Missing family life while studying in the U.S.? Skidmore’s International Friendship Family Program (IFFP) pairs students with local families to share culture, traditions, and connection. You’ll continue living on campus while enjoying the comfort of a “home away from home.”
Learn more
Two international students pose with Chloe Jaleel at the Davis UWC Scholars luncheon celebration

Skidmore Davis UWC Scholars

Skidmore is proud to welcome Davis UWC Scholars — graduates of 12 global UWC schools — who bring leadership, global insight, and a shared commitment to making a difference. Scholars also gain access to opportunities like Projects for Peace, aligning with Skidmore’s values of creativity and engaged citizenship.
Learn more

Ongoing support and programs

Your support doesn’t end after orientation. Support for you continues with programs, events, and services offered by The Learning Commons throughout the year and over the summer. Additional campus resources to support international students include:

  • Writing resources to strengthen your academic work. Learn more
  • Peer Academic Coaching and tutoring for one-on-one or group support. Learn more
  • English language support for non-native speakers. Learn more
  • Diversity and inclusion programs that celebrate all voices at Skidmore. Learn more
  • Student clubs and organizations where you can explore interests and make friends. Learn more 

Your safety and privacy matter to us. 

Learn how Skidmore responds to federal law enforcement requests and what resources are available to support you. 

View Federal Law Enforcement Request Protocol

Lead Boldly

Ready to change the world? Apply for a $10,000 Projects for Peace grant.
Learn more

The Learning Commons Contact

Phone

Main: 518-580-5570
Fax: 518-580-8149

Mail

The Learning Commons
Skidmore College
815 North Broadway
Saratoga Springs, NY 12866

Office Hours

Monday - Friday
8:30 a.m. ‐ 4:30 p.m.