International Student Life has put together this resource which details resources to support your language development.

You can improve your English skills through programs and services offered through the International Student Life office such as International Coffee Hour. Another great way is to get involved with an organization on campus. UGA offers hundreds of student organizations, including several international and multinational student organizations! 

The Office of Student Success and Achievement offers courses for students who want to enhance their literacy and communication in a field. These courses offer an interdisciplinary introduction to literacies in the Humanities (UNIV 2111), the Social Sciences (UNIV 2112), the STEM Fields (UNIV 2113), and Pre-Professional Majors (UNIV 2114). 

Beech Haven Baptist Church offers free conversational English classes on Thursday mornings from 9:30 am to 11:30 am. Visit their website to learn more and register. 

The Georgia Center for Continuing Education on campus offers English classes. These classes typically charge a fee, and course offerings may vary depending on the time of year. Visit their website for more complete information. 

International Student Life has put together various online resources to help you navigate cultural differences 

• American Values and Customs 
• Stages of Cultural Adjustment 
• Understanding Cross Cultural Adjustment 
• Tips for Smoother Transition 

Additional student resources for navigating cultural differences can be found here.

Consider attending International Student Orientation before classes start, a program that helps you navigate important topics such as immigration, UGA academics, and safety while also providing you many opportunities to build friendships with peers and learn what it’s like to live in Athens. 

Welcome UGA occurs during the first several weeks of both fall and spring semesters. Filled with exciting events across campus for both new and returning students, you won’t want to miss out! 

The Involvement Network is a great place to begin looking for community on campus. 

• An excellent starting point is the Ethnic-Cultural Community organizations, especially if you’re looking to meet others who share similar backgrounds and experiences as you. 

International Student Life offers several programs to help you build belonging and community: 

• International Coffee Hour brings UGA students, faculty, staff, and community members together over coffee and international cuisine. This event occurs every Friday during the fall and spring semesters from 11:30 am to 1:00 pm in the Victor K. Wilson Ballroom inside Memorial Hall. 
• Participate in Cultural Nights to engage in a passport-free journey through distinct transitions, mouthwatering bites, and vibrant beats from every corner of the world! 
• Celebrate International Education Month each November with exciting events that celebrate cultural vibrancy and educational opportunities across campus. 
• Attend the International Street Festival, typically hosted each spring. This student and family-friendly event gives you the opportunity to explore different cultures by enjoying performances, activities, and food from countries all around the world. 
• Consider getting involved in one of the many organizations they advise.

International Student Life has put together a couple of online resources to help you adjust to education in the United States 

• Educational Differences 
• The Study Cycle 

The Office of Student Success and Achievement supports students as they transition into higher education and sustains their progress through the University’s unique academic environment. Here are some ways they can support you as you adjust to the U.S. education system: 

• Student Success Workshops are held throughout the fall and spring semesters to support students as they navigate the unique academic landscape of the University of Georgia. Visit their website to view the schedule. 
• Academic Success UNIV Courses provide you with opportunities to obtain skills that lead to success in college and beyond. View a list of courses they offer and consult with your academic advisor to see about fitting one into your schedule. 
• Academic Coaching is a free service offered to all interested undergraduate students. An Academic Coach can help you assess where you are now and articulate where you want to be moving forward so you can achieve your academic goals. 

International Student Life has put together various online resources to help you increase your financial literacy: 

• U.S. Currency 
• Banking in Athens 
• How to Write a Check 
• Financial Planning Resources 
• Financial Aid Tips 
• Resident Tax Resources 

International Student Life also has a Tax Assistance Program to help you navigate filing taxes in America. 

The Office of Student Financial Aid (OSFA) Peer Financial Counseling Program offers webinars on various financial literacy topics. Find upcoming webinars here. 

Looking for a job or internship? The Office of Global Engagement provides guidelines for obtaining employment as an international student. The Career Center also provides many resources to help you navigate your job/internship search. 

The Love and Money Center can assist you with developing goals and strategies to improve your financial well-being at no cost to you. Request an appointment here.