Print this page. More than 100 countries are represented in the University of South Carolina population, and the University is committed to making sure that all students have an outstanding experience. It can certainly be a difficult transition to enroll in a university in a different nation, but Carolina's faculty and staff provide numerous resources to help you become acclimated to living in the United States and South Carolina.
The International Programs for Students office provides services and support to international students and to American students who wish to study in other countries. The office's goal is to provide professional, caring services to our students while providing them with a world of opportunities.
Some of the services provided by the International Programs for Students Office include the following:
The English Programs for Internationals (EPI) office provides superior English as a Second Language (ESL) instruction supported by experienced faculty and personalized services. EPI will meet students at the airport, train, or bus station and take them to their housing upon arrival. EPI helps students with opening bank accounts, shopping, and becoming familiar with life at USC and Columbia.
An array of student activities encourage participation in many aspects of campus life. There are more than 300 student organizations on campus, including many international student organizations. Through the Community Host program, you can visit American families and join in community activities. You can also find a conversation partner on campus to strengthen your English. The Columbia Council for Internationals sponsors International Hour each week, a time for students from many different countries to get together and enjoy a light meal. Our annual World Night festivities and the multicultural celebration of International Week highlight experiences from around the globe.
The University's Global Community is an on-campus residential community designed to bring American students and international students together to create a unique living arrangement.