five smiling female students looking at the camera during international festival

International Student Services

Be a Part of Our Global Community

Students from 45 different countries call UC home

As one of the most diverse campuses in West Virginia, we believe that cultural understanding is critical – as well as an enjoyable experience – for our students.

Through our international campus community, UC students get the opportunity to learn about and gain respect for different cultures, create friendships that reach across the globe, and learn to be at ease with people from all different walks of life.

We’re proud to have students from so many countries, and we welcome and support you in your American educational journey.

From celebrations honoring all of our different cultures, to providing support while you navigate US regulations, to checking in with you to make sure you are adjusting to life in the US, our international students enjoy personal attention while also receiving excellent ESL support.

How to Apply

Life @ UC

Optional Practical Training Extension for STEM Students (STEM OPT)

UC offers international students the opportunity to gain an in-demand degree and earn real-world experience in the U.S. after graduation. The STEM Optional Practical Training program helps international students on an F-1 visa stay in the United States for an additional 24 months of OPT after working their initial 12 months of OPT following graduation.

STEM-designated programs are academic programs in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) that the U.S. government recognizes as beneficial to students and companies.

UC offers a wide range of quality STEM-designated programs that meet the U.S. Department of Homeland Security criteria, helping you pursue a rewarding career and qualify for the extension.

See Our STEM OPT Degree Programs

International Programs

From Worldfest to the Global Student Organization, life at UC as an international student is full of opportunities to connect with people from around the world.

Explore International Life at UC

Your home away from home

We know that it’s easy to find yourself feeling a little overwhelmed as you make the adjustment to life in the United States. Our Director of International Student Services, Office of Student Life and others are here to help. We want your UC/US experience to be both memorable and positive.

Life in the US

Preparing for UC

Violetta Petrosyan

Director of International Students

violettapetrosyan@ucwv.edu 304-357-4881

University of Charleston