WEEKLY UPDATE – April 13

In this week's newsletter, learn of resources about living off campus as international students. See the information below about off campus housing, as well as upcoming workshops and social events. If you have questions related to immigration, you can email ISSS or schedule an appointment with your ISSS adviser.

If you are interested in renting an apartment in the Bay Area, the Off-Campus Living (OCL) department offers resources to assist you in your search, such as reviewing rental listings on their USF rental website. OCL also hosts one-on-one coaching, so if you are looking to talk to someone about your housing search, please sign up for an appointment today. These one-on-one appointments can also be used for discussing tenant rights information, landlord mediation, and budgeting comparisons, in addition to assisting in the housing search. Also, check out the OCL Instagram, as it has tons of resources and spotlights available apartments.

Many international students do not have a Social Security Number, and a landlord or company may want more proof of financial ability before agreeing to a lease or contract. ISSS has prepared the Vendor Letter that you can download, print, and show as evidence of your financial solvency.

Additional Resource for Graduate Students: The Academe at 198 offers over 650 furnished apartments at competitive prices, specifically for graduate students and trainees in the most rigorous and demanding academic programs. Visit their website for more information »

Off-Campus Living has created a support page for International Students with up-to-date tips regarding finding housing off campus.

Discover properties that are available for USF students and close to campus. You can also search for roommates within the USF community.

The Summer 2026 On-Campus Housing Application is now live for continuing undergraduate and graduate students. Students can apply through USFRooms on a rolling basis, and early submission is encouraged. Summer housing begins May 24 and covers all summer sessions through August 15, giving students the flexibility to choose a length of stay that fits their summer courses. Students typically must be enrolled in at least one summer course to be eligible. However, continuing students who are staying in the city for other reasons are still encouraged to apply. For more information, visit the summer housing website or contact studenthousing@usfca.edu.

April 1-30

In honor of Earth Month, GoUSF Environmental Justice Month offers a series of events focused on sustainability, climate action, and environmental justice. Through speakers, workshops, and community initiatives, participants can engage with important environmental issues, expand their understanding, and explore ways to take meaningful action. The program encourages reflection on how environmental justice connects to our daily lives and communities. Open to the USF community.

Learn more »

Tuesday, April 14 | 12–12:45 p.m. PDT
Zoom

As part of our Immigration Insights sessions, ISSS will be offering an online session to talk about recent and potential immigration changes covered in our March email. Information about what these changes can look like, its potential impact, and how students can prepare will be covered. Students will also be given an opportunity to ask questions. The session will not be recorded. Open to the USF Community.

Join here »

Wednesday, April 15 | 5–6 p.m.

University Center — 413

Experience the magic of chakra self massage and relax before finals! We’ll go over each of the chakras, the background of chakra balancing as Ayurvedic medicine, and how to balance chakras through self massage techniques. Open to the USF Community.

Learn more »

Friday, April 17 | 7–10 p.m.

Sobrato Center

The Campus Activities Board (CAB) annual Spring Concert, Donaroo, features a student DJ opener, performances from USF groups, and is headlined by a major artist. Expect an unforgettable night and a huge crowd! This event is funded by student activity fee. Open to the USF Community.

Purchase tickets here »

Wednesday, April 18 | 11 a.m.–2 p.m. McLaren Complex  

You’re invited to the International Student Potluck and Panel. Organized by SOE Graduate Student Senate representatives in collaboration with ISSS, this event celebrates cultural diversity through shared dishes and community building. A panel of international students will also share their experiences and stories, creating space for meaningful conversation and connection. Open to the USF Community. 

RSVP here »

Wednesday, April 18 | 5–9 p.m.

McLaren Conference Center

Join the USF Hui O Hawai‘i’ 52nd Annual Hō‘ike. This year's hō‘ike theme is Ka Ulana ‘Ana I Ka Piko, “In Weaving, We Begin At The Center.”

Enjoy live music, ‘ono food, raffle prizes, and, of course, our dances choreographed by Hui O Hawai‘i’s kumu! Tickets sell out fast, so be sure to get them while you still can. Open to the USF Community. 

Register now »

Share your USF story and inspire others by completing our Graduating International Student Survey. You could win a USF Bookstore gift card or (if eligible) an International Service Award pin! Please fill out the survey by Friday, April 25! 

ISSS is monitoring and communicating immigration updates that may affect our international students. Visit our International Student Support web page for updates and resources.

If you are requesting an immigration document or letter from our office, remember that requests are processed within 10 business days. Make sure you plan accordingly so you have enough time to receive your document before you need it. All ISSS requests should be submitted through the MyISSS student portal (log in to your MyISSS account, go to Requests & Documents, and select the appropriate icon on the right side of the page). You can view our MyISSS Student Handbook for assistance with your submission.    

Click the Chat with ISSS button on the bottom, right corner of any ISSS web page, and the ISSS team can assist you with your inquiry.

Appointments can be made online. Appointments are booked in 20-minute increments. Find upcoming workshops on the ISSS Events and Workshops calendar.

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