International Students

Welcome

Two students smiling while petting a furry dog.

Welcome to the University of Rochester, where our commitment to Meliora—ever better—drives everything we do. We take pride in fostering a diverse and supportive community, ensuring that students from all backgrounds are welcomed, respected, and empowered to thrive. Our values of equity, leadership, integrity, openness, respect, and accountability are the foundation of everything we do, guiding us as we prepare students to address the world’s most pressing challenges.

Our international students come from across the world representing more than 100 countries and making up over 50 percent of our graduate student body across all disciplines in the School of Arts & Sciences (SAS) and the Hajim School of Engineering & Applied Sciences.

The University of Rochester, as well as our Graduate Education and Postdoctoral Affairs for SAS and Hajim, has many resources to support incoming, current, and alumni international students.

A view of the City of Rochester from a distance.

Living in Rochester

About Our City

Rochester is nestled on the shores of Lake Ontario in the westernmost part of the Finger Lakes region between Syracuse and Buffalo. Rochester is less than two hours from Niagara Falls and six hours from New York City by car.

Rochester is a vibrant, diverse city with a large population of residents from international background, creating a welcoming community for students from around the world. You’ll find a variety of international grocery stores and restaurants offering flavors from nearly every corner of the globe.

More About the City of Rochester
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Get Involved

Creating Connections

Getting involved as an international student is easy with the area offering numerous cultural and international organizations, providing opportunities to connect with others, celebrate traditions, and engage with the community.

On campus, our Interfaith Chapel provides a place for around a dozen faith-based communities to meet, meditate, and mingle. The Paul J. Burgett Intercultural Center offers a space on campus for cultural awareness and engagement.

Learn more about getting involved

Resources

There are many resources on campus for our graduate students to use. Resources specific to international students include those listed below.

  • International Student Office

    Helps international students with issuing immigration documents, advising on immigration matters, US reporting requirements, information on adjusting to life in the us/Rochester.

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  • Office for Global Engagement

    Acts as a central point of contact for those interested in international travel, activities, or engagement.

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  • Greene Career Center International Student Support

    Assists international students in navigating the US job and internship market.

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  • English Support Services

    Lists of University resources for students to help practice and improve their English skills.

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  • Cultural Adjustment

    A guide to help international students adjust to life in the US, including information on culture shock, Us culture and values, and American academic culture.

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  • Student Groups

    Graduate student groups such as the Alliance for Diversity in Science and Engineering, Association of Latin American Students, Graduate Students of Color, Persian Student Association, International Students and Scholars Association.

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