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WVU Tech is home to almost 100 international students from across the world. Join us -- and make your home in West Virginia.

International Student Services

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Your Home in West Virginia

We hope this website provides information and answers your questions about life at Tech and in West Virginia.  In addition to our website, please make sure you visit Study in the States, a website from the Department of Homeland Security. If you need assistance, please contact Dan Sepion, Associate Dean of Students/Designated School Official (DSO).
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International Student Orientation and New Student Orientation
Spring 2024 New International Student Orientation is scheduled for Friday, Jan. 5 (8am - 10am). Our International Orientation session will help with your transition to Tech and provide important resources you will need.  All new international students are automatically registered for this event.  Mark your calendars now and plan on arriving to campus by Thursday, Jan. 4 so you can participate in this important event. 

Once you participate in International Student Orientation, you will attend our New Student Orientation scheduled for Jan. 5 (1-4pm). This Orientation is for all new students; you are automatically enrolled to attend.
International Student Organization
The Tech International Student Organization (ISO) is our student-led club open to all students on campus.  ISO aims to build community among international students and create a more inclusive Tech campus. ISO sponsors events on campus and trips to a variety of locations throughout the academic year. Learn more by vising the ISO Facebook page and Instagram account.  
Family Network Logo
The Global Bear Family Network connects our international students to a local, Beckley-area family. All international students are welcome to join. This is a visitation   program focused on outreach and support -- it is not a homestay or live-in program.

Student Information and Online Application

New, incoming international students are invited to participate in the program as part of the Admissions process.  All international students who sign-up for the program will be matched with a local family—with each family hosting 2-3 students.  The matched student and family will continue throughout the student’s time at Tech. This is a visitation program, not a homestay or live-in program.

Through this program, we hope to foster a cross cultural exchange while creating opportunities for international students to connect with our local community, learn more about our region, and explore beyond the University.

International students who participate in the program are expected to:

  • Attend Tech International Student Host Family Program events, including the kick-off event
  • Communicate with their host family and always reply to texts and emails
  • Accept invitations from the host family
  • Be open to new experiences and be open to sharing about their culture
  • Communicate with the Student Life Office if they no longer wish to participate in the program
Ready to apply? Complete our online application below. If you have questions, please contact Associate Dean of Students  Dan Sepion at 304.929.1238. 

Students: Apply Here!


Family Information and Online Application

The Global Bear Family Network is a visitation program focused on outreach and support, not a homestay or live-in program. We welcome anyone in the Beckley area, from Tech alumni; families with children; young adults; to retired individuals, to apply to this program. We ask that hosts commit to their student for the duration of their time at Tech (typically four years). We try to match 2 to 3 students total to each host family.

Through this program, we hope to foster a cross cultural exchange while creating opportunities for international students to connect with our local community, learn more about our region, and explore beyond the University.

At the start of the fall semester, the University holds a welcome event for all students and host families. After this kick-off, we ask that you and your students meet (or communicate) at least monthly.  The frequency and types of meetings will depend on your comfort level and how you wish to be involved with your students.  Host families are not financially responsible for their students and host families are not expected to provide financial support.  Ideas for you and your students include:

  • Attending community and civic events
  • Bowling, movies, baseball games, or other local activities
  • Visits to the New River Gorge National Park, hiking, or other outdoor activities
  • Attending Tech sporting event (many of our international students are athletes and would love to see you in attendance!)
  • Family meals, family celebrations, and family parties 
Ready to apply? Complete our online application below. If you have questions, please contact Associate Dean of Students Dan Sepion at 304.929.1238.  We look forward to your participation and engagement with our students.

Families: Apply Here!

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