Information for New International Students
New international students must be prepared for numerous legal regulations and health requirements prior to their arrival in the United States. Before arriving in Chestertown, there are many things to consider. Please review the links below to help fully prepare yourself prior to your arrival on campus.
Before you arrive in Chestertown, there are numerous things to consider in preparation for your academic experience; however, many are not directly related to your studies. Please make sure to explore the additional links below to help fully prepare yourself before arriving for International Student Orientation.
Additional Preparation
As of January 26,2021, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) will require all air passengers two years of age and over entering the United States (including U.S. citizens and Legal Permanent Residents) to present a negative COVID-19 test, taken within three (3) calendar days of departure, or proof of recovery from the virus within the last 90 days.
For further information, please visit the Bureau of Consular Affairs website.
All international students at Washington College are required to carry health insurance.
All International students at Washington College are required to purchase a meal plan, which is a pre-paid account that allows students access to the Dining Hall and other on-campus retail locations throughout the semester.
This way, you will never have to worry about what you will eat during your stay here.
Washington College is a residential college, which means that the majority of the students live in college dormitories, or residence halls. There are co-ed halls, as well as single-sex halls. Each residence hall has one or more Resident Assistants (RA) who looks after the welfare of the hall or floor and is able to handle individual concerns or questions.
For additional information on housing, please visit Residential Life.
GEO has compiled a list of transportation options to help you navigate Chestertown and beyond. While Chestertown is a small town in a rural location, students have access to multiple public and private transportation options.
Most students find it useful to have a bank account while attending college, especially if they cannot constantly write home for funds. A bank account in the vicinity of the college is very useful to have to deposit or cash checks, or to have money transferred from home.
Learn more about money & banking.
A mobile telephone will play an important role in your life here, because it allows you to contact people, both local and distant, easily. There will be an opportunity to purchase a U.S. mobile phone during the first few days of International Student Orientation.
Learn more about campus & local calls.
International students are allowed to work on campus during their academic careers. There are also opportunities to gain practical experience off-campus related to your program of studies.
Learn more about employment opportunities for international students.
Build social relationships with local community members that last long after graduation.
Learn more about our community mentorship program.
Have additional questions? Contact the GEO Team at geoFREEwashcoll or at 410-810-7100.