Office of International Students & Study Abroad

Our Office

The Office of International Students & Study Abroad (OISS) provides ongoing services to Manhattanville’s international students (undergraduate, graduate, and exchange visitors). We counsel students from 40+ countries on immigration matters, guide the cultural adjustment process and connect students to the resources and activities available on our campus and in the wider community. We educate students about the terms of their F-1 or J-1 student status and assist them with the timely preparation of documents for successful international travel and other needs. Collaborating with other departments (Career Development, Athletics, Residence Life, etc.) as needed, we act as an advocate for all students in parental dependent non-immigrant status (i.e., F-1, A-1, G-1, E-2, L-2).

Areas of focus include pre-orientation programs, cross-cultural awareness, health insurance education, employment authorization, successful navigation of government offices and services (port of entry, social security, tax compliance, DMV) and orientation to post-graduate possibilities in the United States.

The OISS also coordinates Manhattanville’s direct exchange, cooperative and independent Study Abroad opportunities for all students, both domestic and international. STUDY ABROAD

Our Mission

The Office of International Students & Study Abroad (OISS) at Manhattanville College places service to international students and exchange visitors first among its priorities, recognizing these persons as our main constituency. As a primary information resource for international students, we seek ways to effectively communicate and inform students of their rights, responsibilities, and procedures in accord with institutional and federal mandates.

As the principal administrative officer (also known as the Designated School Officer/DSO or Responsible Officer/RO under federal law), the director of the Office of International Students & Study Abroad (OISS) assists the leadership of the institution by providing reports, analyses, and recommendations required for policy formation. The OISS staff also serves as a policymaker and acts to facilitate and implement institutional policy, providing interpretation and enforcement of the policy, as required under 8 CFR 214 and 22 CFR 62 federal regulations.

This office provides data for internal and external reporting, assists schools and departments by furnishing needed data and other services, assists the faculty whenever possible, and renders services to the alumni of the College.