Working with International Students

When in doubt, make sure your student is checking in with Bechtel International Center as well as their Undergraduate Advising Director.

On this page: Bechtel International Center • Information for Departments • Enrollment Considerations • Classroom Participation

Enrollment Considerations

International students should be advised to consult with a Bechtel Advisor in conjunction with an Academic Advisor, as many routine actions such as entering a coterminal program or taking on employment can affect their visa status. Specifically, before registering at less than the regular full-tuition rate, all international students are strongly advised to consider the effects of that registration on their degree progress and on eligibility for financial aid and awards, visas, deferment of student loans, athletic eligibility, and residency requirements. International students are also encouraged to request a signature from their Bechtel Advisor regarding petitions involving late drops and late withdrawals.

Classroom Participation

International students at Stanford come from a wide range of backgrounds.  Some may have extensive prior experience in American classrooms, and others may have very little.  At times, instructors may encounter cultural differences around class participation: how students relate to their instructors or peers in the classroom, email etiquette, how and when one might ask for help, etc.  There may also occasionally be language disconnects.  Even students with fluent English language skills may still filter social cues through their native language and culture.  As an instructor, it is helpful to keep the diversity of international students in mind.  Try not to make assumptions, and be willing to ask clarifying questions if you perceive some kind of disconnect in the classroom.