How to Prepare for OCC as an International Student

Step 1: OCC New Student Orientation

All students new to Oakland Community College are required to successfully complete orientation online prior to registering for classes. Orientation can be accessed through MyOCC.

Step 2: International Student Orientation

In addition to the OCC new student orientation, international students are required to attend International Orientation. International Student Orientation will focus specifically on what you need to know as an international student while studying at OCC. Detailed information will be sent to students before the semester begins. 

Step 3:  Immigration Check-in

All F-1 and M-1 international students with an “initial” or “transfer pending” Form I-20 are required to complete an Immigration Check-in after entering the U.S. and/or within 30 days of their program start date as listed on the Form I-20.

Immigration Check-in is a virtual process that students will complete within the F-1 Portal.

Step 4: Mandatory Counseling Appointment

All new students are required to meet with an OCC Counselor prior to enrolling in courses. Appointments are available in-person, virtually on Zoom, or over the phone.   Contact Counseling

Step 5: Register for Classes

All F-1 and M-1 international students are required to enroll full-time during their academic semesters of study. This requires a minimum of 12 billable credit hours with not more than 1 course being online. Hybrid courses are considered in-person. Learn more about enrollment and maintaining status.