Search for an attorney through the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA). The search tool allows you to search by specialty (e.g. Asylum, DACA, Students and Exchange Visitors, etc.) or by language.
Practical Matters and Necessities
Practical Matters and Necessities
Whether or not you are moving to a new city, meeting basic needs and tending to practical matters is an important part of daily life. When your basic needs are met and you can easily access services that will help you take care of practical matters, you are more equipped to learn and grow in other areas of your life.
To ensure that your OHIO experience is built upon a solid foundation, the International Student and Scholar Services team has compiled resources to help you find employment, housing, places to purchase living necessities, available cell phone providers, financial services and local shipping options. Additionally, you can learn more about taking care of practical matters such as obtaining a photo ID and security card and explore external immigration resources.
Practical Matters
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Avoiding ScamsThere are many common scams that can impact students, especially international students. Take time to inform yourself so that you may avoid being the victim of scams.
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Banks and Financial InstitutionsInformation to help you get started with banking in Athens.
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ShippingThere are several options for local, national and international shipping available in Athens.
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Driver's License and Photo IDLearn more about what you can use for photo identification (ID) while living in the United States.
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Obtain a Social Security CardA social security number (SSN) helps the U.S. government correctly identify and record covered wages and employment earnings. Find out if you need one.
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Employment ResourcesInternational students and scholars must adhere to specific regulations when it comes to employment. Learn more about the types of employment available to you based on your visa type and access employment-related resources.
External Immigration Resources
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Study in the States
Study in the States, provided by the Department of Homeland Security, offers free government resources that explain the rules and regulations governing the non-immigrant student process in the United States.
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USCIS Case Status
A search tool to look up the case status of current United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) applications.
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Notary Information
Some legal documents in the United States must be notarized, or signed by a certified personnel to ensure their authenticity. Learn more about what a notary is and how to locate one in Athens.
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Center for Student Legal Services
The Center for Student Legal Services provides Ohio University students with affordable legal assistance.
Necessities
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On-Campus DiningOn-campus dining provides the finest quality food and service at reasonable costs to students and guests.
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On- and Off-Campus HousingThere are many options for housing available, including on campus in residence halls and off campus in apartments and homes.
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Buying Living NecessitiesAthens offers various stores and shops in which you can buy basic needs items such as food and household goods.
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Cell Network ProvidersHaving reliable cell phone service ensures you can stay connected to family and friends no matter where you are. Explore available cell phone providers in and around the Athens area.
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Basic Needs Assistance
Ohio University's Office of the Dean of Students offers resources to help assist students with meeting their basic needs. Learn more about available options to meet basic needs.
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Food Assistance
Ohio University's Office of the Dean of Students connects students in need with food assistance, from local meal banks and food pantries to the Cats' Cupboard, OHIO's on-campus food pantry.
Useful Facebook Groups for International Students
Have Questions or Need Support?
If you have questions or need further assistance as you transition to life as a student at OHIO's main campus in Athens, OH, please contact International Student and Scholar Services.
Phone: 740.593.4330
Email: isss@ohio.edu
Location: Yamada International House
56 E. Union St.
Athens, OH 45701