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Key Resources for International Visitors

Living in a new country can be exciting and sometimes challenging. Below is a collection of resources for international students, scholars, and interns to help you navigate your new community. You will find tips on housing, health insurance, transportation, local schools, and community activities.

 

Housing

International students and scholars may choose to live on or off campus. In order to be eligible for scholar housing, all scholars must have an academic program or university-related purpose for their stay and be connected with a sponsoring academic department.

There are many options for scholars wanting to live off campus. University Housing and Dining Services has compiled this Living Off-Campus Guide with information on how to be an informed tenant, services to expect from landlords and apartment communities, and other resources.

 

 

Travel

Corvallis is conveniently located 14 miles from the Interstate 5 (I-5) freeway, an hour and a half drive from Portland, and only one hour drive from the scenic Oregon coast. The closest airports are Portland International Airport (PDX) and Eugene Airport (EUG). Corvallis is a pedestrian and bike-friendly city. Below you'll find information on some of the options for public transportation in and around Corvallis.

 

 

 

Health

Through the visa application process, please pay special attention to required insurance coverage. The Department of State (DOS) requires all J-1 Exchange Visitors and their dependents (living in the U.S.) be covered by health insurance. The health insurance must meet federal, state, and OSU requirements.

 

  

English Skills

We encourage scholars and students to take advantage of the many ways to hone your English skills while here at OSU. You'll find everything from conversation partner programs to formal classes and casual coffee hours.  

 

 

 

OSU Resources

Explore opportunities to get involved through clubs, sports, and cultural centers and access key resources to help with your academic success while here at OSU!

 

 

 

Community

The Covallis community is a vibrant and diverse place. There are festivals, art shows, free movie nights, and concerts year round. Corvallis is known to be welcoming to people of all backgrounds, faiths, and ethnicities. 

 

 

WEATHER

Make sure you are prepared for winter in the Willamette Valley!