Frequently Asked Questions:
When is International Student Orientation?
Fall arrival will be on Tuesday, August 27, 2024. Fall International Student Orientation will begin the evening of Tuesday, August 27, and run until Friday, August 30, 2024. For International Oles starting in February: you will have Mid-Year New Student Orientation (MY NSO) from Tuesday, February 4-Wednesday, February 5, 2025.
What day do I have to arrive? Can I arrive before this day?
SPECIFIC to REGULATIONS: International students can arrive in the U.S. up to 30 days prior to the program start date on their Form I-20/DS-2019. Keep in mind that St. Olaf will not accommodate arrival to campus PRIOR to Tuesday, August 27, 2024. If entering the country before this date, then it is the individual’s responsibility to make arrangements elsewhere.
Where will I meet the St. Olaf representative?
When you arrive at the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) proceed to the Starbucks near the baggage claim located in Lindberg Terminal (Terminal 1). Please wait for an International Student Counselor (holding a St. Olaf welcome sign).
What airline is recommended?
We do not have a recommended airline, but note that Delta Airlines does have daily flights to Minneapolis from Amsterdam, London, Toronto, and Tokyo.
Whom do I contact in case of an emergency?
Keep these telephone numbers handy. They may be useful to you in the event of airline changes or other emergencies.
- St. Olaf Taylor Center for Equity and Inclusion: +1-507-786-3060
- Brisa Zubia, Associate Director for International Student Programming: +1-507-786-3267
- Caitlin Lamont Kreienkamp, Assistant Director of International Student Compliance: +1-507-786-3073
- Dean of Students’ Office: +1-507-786-3615
- Public Safety : +1-507-786-3666
How do I send baggage?
Any items you send to yourself will be held for you at the St. Olaf Post Office. Students are encouraged to send bedding ahead of time so it is available when you arrive. More information on things to bring or send in advance can be found online.
If you want to send items to yourself, please use the following mailing address:
Your Name
St. Olaf College
1500 St. Olaf Avenue
Northfield, MN 55057
USA
Where will I be staying when I arrive?
During orientation, most international students will be housed in their assigned residence hall after checking in. Some students, such as language house exchange students, might stay in Larson Hall until their Language House becomes available.
Who will my roommate(s) be?
During the summer you will receive information about your residence hall and roommate(s) from the Residence Life Office. Roommates are matched based on the answers given when you sign up for housing online. Be sure to be very honest when you fill out the form to ensure the best match possible.
What happens after International Student Orientation?
Information for New Student Orientation can be found online.