WEEKLY UPDATE – Nov. 3

In this week's newsletter, we highlight international student living and lifestyle. See the information below about housing, both on and off campus, as well as reminders for upcoming events. As always, if you have any immigration questions or concerns, please reach out to ISSS via phone, email, or make an appointment with your ISSS adviser online. 

Student Housing is now accepting housing applications for current undergraduate and graduate students who want to live on campus during the spring 2026 semester. The priority deadline for all new housing applicants is Dec. 5. 

It's strongly encouraged that all continuing students view the Continuing Students web page as well as the Contracts and Documents web page to view the housing contracts associated with the application.

Learn more about Student Housing » 

If you are interested in renting an apartment or a room in the Bay Area, the Office for Off-Campus Living (OCL) offers resources to assist you in your search and planning. You can review rental listings on the USF rental website or search these additional rental websites. OCL also has a useful page if you're curious about how to begin searching as an international student. Additionally, you can schedule an appointment with them to help you with your search.

Learn more about OCL » 

Class registration for intersession and spring 2026 opens soon! Check out USF's registration website for important registration information and step-by-step instructions about online registration. You can also find out your personal registration access times. View full registration calendar »

Students are responsible for updating their addresses in MyISSS. Any change of address must be reported to the U.S. government within 10 days. To update your address in MyISSS, please follow the instructions in the MyISSS Student Handbook. 

Thursday, Nov. 6 | 12–12:30 p.m.
University Center 503

Learn the basics of reproductive health in a safe, supportive space. Topics include contraception, menstruation, accessing healthcare, and more. Enjoy complimentary refreshments, take home free menstrual products, and connect with the PERIOD chapter at USF. This event is open to all USF community members. 

Register now »

Friday, Nov. 7 | 11:30 a.m.–4 p.m. University Center 1st floor

Give back to the local San Francisco community! Join ISSS and other students in volunteering to sort and prepare clothing, assist as personal shoppers, and help create emergency kits. St. Anthony's runs the city's largest free clothing program, which provides clean, quality clothing to families and individuals in need. Complete the required liability waiver before participating.

Register now » 

Wednesday, Nov. 19
5:30–6:30 p.m. PST | Online 

Join us for an inspiring virtual panel where students who studied or conducted research abroad will share their unique experiences! Hear about their most memorable moments, the challenges they faced, and how these experiences have shaped their personal and professional journeys. This event is open to all USF community members.

Register now »

Sunday, Nov. 23
McLaren Conference Center

Experience an afternoon filled with the vibrant spirit of the islands as Hawaiian Ensemble proudly presents a series of student-led Hula and ‘Ori Tahiti performances after their semester-long preparation. Celebrate and honor the rich traditions and values of Polynesian culture through music, dance, food, and storytelling. Lū’au ticket link will be posted on the @usfhawaiianensemble Instagram! This event is open to all USF community members. 

In this episode, you’ll hear from students, organizers, and a special feature by USF President Salvador D. Aceves as they share what this retreat means to them and how they find gratitude and hope in their USF journey.

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 into 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.

Our podcast focuses on mindfulness, diversity, and inclusion, featuring episodes that cover diverse topics. Subscribe for engaging narratives, consistent audio quality, and a cohesive visual identity, and join us in building a mindful and inclusive USF community.

Want to submit content for future newsletters? For a student feature, fill out this form, and for all other contributions, email our office at isss@usfca.edu for more information.