All new international students must complete the Orientation and Registration process before beginning their first semester at Citrus College.
These steps are designed to help students prepare for enrollment, understand their F-1 responsibilities, and develop an appropriate first-semester class schedule.
Important: You must complete all required orientation steps before you can be cleared to register for classes.
Step 1: Purchase the Citrus College Health Insurance Plan
All international students are required to purchase the Citrus College International Student Health Insurance Plan.
Health insurance information and instructions will be provided by the International Student Center (ISC) after admission.
Step 2: Attend the ISC New Student Orientation
New international students must attend the mandatory International Student Center (ISC) New Student Orientation.
During orientation, students will learn about:
- F-1 immigration requirements
- College policies and procedures
- Student services and resources
- Registration requirements
- Important deadlines
Orientation dates and instructions are provided in your Acceptance Letter and pre-arrival communications from the ISC.
Step 3: Meet with a Counselor
Before registering for classes, students must meet with a counselor to develop:
- A Student Education Plan (SEP)
- A first-semester registration plan
The counselor will help you:
- Select appropriate courses
- Understand degree and transfer requirements
- Review placement recommendations
- Plan your academic pathway
How Do I Meet with a Counselor?
International students have several options:
Option 1: Visit the ISC
Visit the International Student Center in person. ISC staff can assist you and help coordinate counseling appointments as needed.
Option 2: Call the ISC
Contact the ISC at:
(626) 914-8549
Staff can help schedule a counseling appointment or direct you to the appropriate counseling resource.
Option 3: Schedule Through General Counseling
Students may schedule appointments directly through the Counseling and Advisement Center.
Appointments may be available:
- In person
- By Zoom
- By telephone
General counseling can assist with:
- Educational planning
- Registration assistance
- Transfer planning
- Graduation requirements
- Academic advising
Can I Meet with a Counselor Before Arriving?
Yes. Students may meet with a counselor remotely through Zoom before arriving in the United States.
Students may also meet with a counselor in person after arriving on campus.
Step 4: Register for Classes
After completing:
- Health insurance enrollment
- ISC Orientation
- Counseling and SEP requirements
you will be cleared to register for classes through your student portal account.
Registration dates are assigned by the College and can be viewed on the student portal.
When Can I Register for Classes?
You may register only after completing all required Orientation and Registration steps.
This includes:
- Purchasing health insurance
- Attending the mandatory ISC New Student Orientation
- Meeting with a counselor and obtaining a Student Education Plan (SEP)
Once these requirements have been completed, the ISC will clear you for registration.
When Should I Arrive in the United States?
Students with an initial Form I-20 may enter the United States up to 30 days before the Program Start Date listed on their Form I-20.
Arriving early allows time to:
- Attend orientation
- Meet with a counselor
- Register for classes
- Arrange housing and transportation
- Become familiar with the campus and community