SAN IGNACIO UNIVERSITY www.sanignaciocollege.edu
Exchange Visitor Program
SAN IGNACIO UNIVERSITY MIAMI Welcome to San Ignacio University! We are glad that you will be joining us and we hope that your time with us will be a successful one filled with exciting opportunities. San Ignacio University’s mission is to enhance the academic experience of international students. Studying abroad is exciting but it can also be challenging, we understand that the process can be a little confusing, so let us help you during this experience. We look forward to meeting you at San Ignacio University Miami. If you have any question please don’t hesitate to contact us.
Exchange Visitor Program Index
Content
Page
Welcome
1
Index
2
Program Description
3
Apply to our Exchange program
4
Acceptance Letter/ DS-2019
5
Request your J-1 Visa holder
6
Health insurance requirement (1)
7
Health insurance requirement (2)
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Requirements of J-1 Visa holder
9
Arrival in the United States
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Welcome to San Ignacio University
11
Our team
12
Responsibilities under a J-1 Visa status
13
US regulations governing the J visa status
14
Work opportunities & Regulations
15
Academic calendar
16
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Exchange Visitor Program SAN IGNACIO UNIVERSITY
Program Description
San Ignacio University
The Exchange Visitor Program, administered by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Education and Cultural fairs, promotes international educational and cultural exchange to develop mutual understanding between American’s and people from around the world.
San Ignacio University provides opportunities for Exchange Visitor Students to get to know the City of Miami and the natural beauty of South Florida. Moreover, San Ignacio University has abundant opportunities to expose Exchange Visitor students to cultural events and social experience in an American culture. Of equal importance is the opportunity for our students to study alongside fellows from around the world, who will bring their own global vision.
San Ignacio University is a boutique university dedicated to form future leaders in a variety of fields. We focus in developing people who are socially responsible, have a strong entrepreneurial spirit, are goal oriented, have a global vision of their field and who are also able to work in teams.
Program Objective The program at San Ignacio University is designed to provide individuals from partner schools in foreign countries, the opportunity to live and study for a short period at an American University while experiencing American life and culture from the perspective of South Florida.
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Apply for our Exchange Visitor Program Admission requirements for students coming under a J-1 visa Students from San Ignacio University partner universities are welcome to apply to be a part of our Study Abroad program.
If a student’s native language is not English,
proficiency in English must be established by one of the following options: Satisfactory Standardized Test Score as PTE (54), TOEFL (70 - IBT) or IELTS (6.0).
In order to complete the admissions process, the candidate must meet and submit the following requirements:
Copy of a valid passport.
Completed
Copy of SEVIS / J-1 Receipt.
signed application form
and
dated
international
Financial statement or certified bank letter in
English demonstrating full tuition funds available, along with living expenses capability to cover a the length of the program of tuition and fees, books and supplies, living and any other necessary expenses during your studies. (Amounts must be in or converted to USD currency). Affidavit of support form in case of sponsor. Proof of enrollment in their home university.
Transcripts and educational credentials, if they are not in English must be translated.
Proof of insurance. Students must obtain coverage
through your own health insurance provider in your home country. Please make sure that all required benefits are included. Please attach an insurance confirmation to your application, which details your name, the terms of the coverage, and the exact dates of validity (it should be valid from the day of entry into the U.S. until 30 days after the end of the program). Personal essay on how this program will benefit
your professional development (in English) – 500 words.
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Acceptance Letter DS-2019
J-1 Program requirements Receiving a DS-2019 form issued by San Ignacio University means that you are specifically participating in the San Ignacio University exchange visitor program as designated by the Department of State. Please carefully review the Form DS-2019. Section 1. contains personal information about you (or your J-2 dependent) including a SEVIS identification number and unique bar code.
Section 2. contains a specific description of the exchange visitor program (and program number) activities as assigned to San Ignacio University by the Department of state. You are encouraged to carefully read the San Ignacio University exchange visitor program definition stated earlier in this memo. Section 3. covers the length of your stay. Participants in J-1 exchange visitor programs have a three-year maximum stay limit. Extensions are possible in specific circumstances only.
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Section 4. indicates the category of the exchange visitor (student or research scholar). Each exchange visitor category has its own set of rules and regulations. It is extremely difficult to change categories in the J visa once inside the U.S. Section 4 contains a description of your planned activities at San Ignacio University. Section 5. indicates your funding source(s) and amounts for the duration of the period listed on the document. Section 6. is reserved for use by the Department of State.
Section 7. is the signature box for the official preparing the form. The Form DS-2019 lists your research or academic program, sponsor length of stay, category activity, location of activity and source and amount of funding. To avoid serious legal consequences that may occur after the fact engage in a prior consultation with the alternate/responsible officer regarding any intended or unintended changes.
Request your J-1 Visa SEVIS Fee for J-1 Students What is the SEVIS fee? SEVIS is an Internet-based system that provides tracking and monitoring functionality, with access to accurate and current information on nonimmigrant students (F and M visa) and exchange visitors (J visa), and their dependents (F-2, M-2, and J-2). SEVIS will be informed of status events for students and exchange visitors including, but not limited to, entry/exit data, changes of current United States address (residence), program extensions, employment notifications, and changes in program of study. SEVIS will also provide system alerts, event notifications, and reports to the end-user schools and programs, as well as for DHS and DoS offices. SEVIS fee payments will be used by the United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to fund the Student and Exchange Visitor Program. This program makes it possible for international students and exchange visitors to attend schools in the United States. The fee also funds the Student Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS), a computer system employed to track international students and exchange visitors during their stays in the United States.
How does one pay the fee? The SEVIS fee is US$ 180. This fee is separate from and in addition to the visa application fee. The SEVIS fee must be paid by the Internet or by mail. It cannot be paid at a U.S. embassy or consulate and it cannot be paid at port of entry. Pay by mail or pay online
Complete the form online and supply the necessary Visa, MasterCard or American Express information. Be sure to write your name exactly as it appears on your DS-2019 form. https://fmjfee.com/i901fee/desktop/index.jsp?view=de sktop A third party such as a friend, family member, or other interested party can pay the fee on your behalf through the same means described above.
http://www.ice.gov/sevis/i901/ Which Students or Exchange Visitors Must Pay the SEVIS Fee? Those who wish to either enter the United States as a student or exchange visitor with a Form I-20 or DS-2019 issued on or after September 1, 2004.
When do students or exchange visitors pay the SEVIS fee? Applicants needing a visa to enter the United States should pay the SEVIS fee at least 3 business days before going to the U.S. embassy or consulate for their visa interview. Non-immigrants currently in the United States who apply for student or exchange visitor status must pay the fee prior to filing their change of status application.
When is the payment processed and verified? If you pay the SEVIS fee by Internet, your payment is processed immediately and, at the time you make payment, you can print a receipt directly from your computer. This computer-generated receipt can be used to verify you have paid the fee at an embassy, consular post, or port of entry. Mailing the SEVIS fee does not constitute payment. The fee is processed when it is received by DHS. If you mail your payment rather than pay on the Internet, it can take a considerable amount of time for payment to be received and for you to receive a receipt by return mail. Whether you choose to pay the fee by the Internet or by mail, a paper receipt will be mailed to the address you provide on Form I-901. You may choose to have this receipt sent to you either by regular mail or, at an additional charge, by express delivery.
Is the SEVIS fee refundable if I am denied a visa? Once paid, the SEVIS fee is non-refundable, unless paid by mistake, even if your visa is denied or, subsequent to issuance of the visa, you choose not to come to the United States. Frequently Asked Questions About the SEVIS Fee: https://www.ice.gov/sevis/i901/faq
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Health insurance requirement (1) Title 22, Section 62.14: Insurance Access to adequate health care for exchange visitors and their families is a major concern to the Department of State and academic program sponsors. You do not want to be in the U.S. without insurance coverage. Although in many countries the government bears the expense of health care for its citizens and sometimes even for visitors individuals and families in the U.S. are responsible for these costs themselves. A single day of hospitalization and medical treatment can cost in the thousands of dollars many hospitals and physicians will often refuse to treat uninsured patients except in life threatening emergencies.
Handout on Insurance
Health insurance gives visitors to the U.S. better and timely health care and provides protection against rising costs. To ensure such access the Department of State has made health insurance a requirement for J-1 and J-2 visitors for participation in a J-1 program.
Title 22, Section 62.14 Insurance
Exchange visitors as a condition of their J-1 visa status are required to carry health insurance for themselves and the dependents. The minimum required health insurance coverage for each person must provide the following:
Medical benefits of at least $100,000 per accident or illness;
Medical evacuation to one's home country in the amount of $50,000;
Repatriation of one's remains in the amount of $25,000; and
A deductible not to exceed $500 per accident or illness. Please note that this insurance requirement is mandated by the Department of State. Sponsors of J-1 programs are authorized to terminate the stay of any exchange visitor who willfully fails to remain in compliance with the requirements. In the United States certain kinds of elective medical care such as eyeglasses or dentistry are ordinarily not covered by insurance and they are very expensive to the extent exchange visitors may wish to take care of such need before leaving home.
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Requirements for J Program Exchange Visitors This handout is designed for J-1 Exchange Visitors and their dependents. It explains the need for health insurance in the United States and outlines the minimum provisions of the coverage required, as of September 1, 1994, (22 CFR Part 62) for every person in J-1 or J-2 status. It also defines some of the terms generally used in discussions of health insurance.
The regulation As an Exchange Visitor in the United States, you must carry health insurance for yourself and your J-2 dependents for the full duration of your J program. Government regulations stipulate that if you willfully fail to carry health insurance for yourself and your dependents, your J-1 sponsor must terminate your program and report the termination to the United States of America Department of State (DOS) in Washington, DC. (a) Sponsors must require that all exchange visitors have insurance in effect that covers the exchange visitors for sickness or accidents during the period of time that they participate in the sponsor's exchange visitor program. In addition, sponsors must require that accompanying spouses and dependents of exchange visitors have insurance for sickness and accidents. Sponsors must inform all exchange visitors that they, and any accompanying spouse and dependent(s), also may be subject to the requirements of the Affordable Care Act. (b) The period of required coverage is the actual duration of the exchange visitor's participation in the sponsor's exchange visitor program as recorded in SEVIS in the “Program Begin Date,” and as applicable, the “Program End Date,” “Effective Program End Date,” or “Effective Date of Termination” fields. Sponsors are not authorized to charge fees to their sponsored exchange visitors for the provision of insurance coverage beyond any demonstrable and justifiable staff time.
Health insurance requirement (2) Title 22, Section 62.14: Insurance If the sponsor provides health insurance, or arranges for health insurance to be offered the exchange visitor, via payroll deduction at the host organization, the exchange visitor must voluntarily authorize this action in writing and also be given the opportunity to make other arrangements to obtain insurance. These authorizations must be kept on file by the sponsor. Minimum coverage must provide: (1) Medical benefits of at least $100,000 per accident or illness; (2) Repatriation of remains in the amount of $25,000; (3) Expenses associated with the medical evacuation of exchange visitors to his or her home country in the amount of $50,000; and (4) Deductibles not to exceed $500 per accident or illness. (c) Insurance policies secured to fulfill the requirements of this section: (1) May require a waiting period for pre-existing conditions that is reasonable as determined by current industry standards; (2) May include provisions for co-insurance under the terms of which the exchange visitor may be required to pay up to 25% of the covered benefits per accident or illness; and (3) Must not unreasonably exclude coverage for perils inherent to the activities of the exchange program in which the exchange visitor participates. (d) Any policy, plan, or contract secured to fill the above requirements must, at a minimum, be: (1) Underwritten by an insurance corporation having an A.M. Best rating of “A−” or above; a McGraw Hill Financial/Standard & Poor's Claims-paying Ability rating of “A−” or above; a Weiss Research, Inc. rating of “B + ” or above; a Fitch Ratings, Inc. rating of “A−” or above; a Moody's Investor Services rating of “A3” or above; or such other rating as the Department of State may from time to time specify; or (2) Backed by the full faith and credit of the government of the exchange visitor's home country; or (3) Part of a health benefits program offered on a group basis to employees or enrolled students by a designated sponsor; or (4) Offered through or underwritten by a federally qualified Health Maintenance Organization or eligible Competitive Medical Plan as determined by the Centers for
Medicare and Medicaid Services of Department of Health and Human Services.
the
U.S.
(e) Federal, state or local government agencies; state colleges and universities; and public community colleges may, if permitted by law, self-insure any or all of the above-required insurance coverage. (f) At the request of a non-governmental sponsor of an exchange visitor program, and upon a showing that such sponsor has funds readily available and under its control sufficient to meet the requirements of this section, the Department of State may permit the sponsor to self-insure or to accept full financial responsibility for such requirements. (g) The Department of State may, in its sole discretion, condition its approval of self-insurance or the acceptance of full financial responsibility by the non-governmental sponsor by requiring such sponsor to secure a payment bond in favor of the Department of State guaranteeing the sponsor's obligations hereunder. (h) Accompanying spouses and dependents are required to be covered by insurance in the amounts set forth in paragraph (b) of this section. Sponsors must inform exchange visitors of this requirement, in writing, in advance of the exchange visitor's arrival in the United States. (i) Exchange visitors who willfully fail to maintain the insurance coverage set forth above while a participant in an exchange visitor program or who make material misrepresentations to the sponsor concerning such coverage will be deemed to be in violation of these regulations and will be subject to termination as an exchange visitor. (j) Sponsors must terminate an exchange visitor's participation in their program if the sponsor determines that the exchange visitor or any accompanying spouse or dependent willfully fails to remain in compliance with this section.
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Requirements of a J-1 Visa holder Procedures before arrival US Port of Entry Arrival Procedures for Students and Exchange Visitors J-1 Exchange Visitors are foreign nationals who have been selected by a Department of State (DOS) designated program sponsor to participate in an exchange visitor program in the United States. This program is designed to promote mutual understanding between the United States and other countries through the interchange of persons, knowledge, and skills.
When you receive your U.S. nonimmigrant visa at the Embassy or Consulate in your country, the consular officer will seal your immigration documents in an envelope and attach it to your passport. You should not open this envelope! The Customs and Border Protection Officer at the U.S. port–of-entry will open the envelope.
When you travel, you should carry some specific documents on your person. Do not check them in your baggage! If your baggage is lost or delayed, you will not be able to show the documents to the Customs and Border Protection Officer and, as a result, may not be able to enter the United States.
Advance Preparation Prior to Entry Careful planning and preparation by students and exchange visitors can ensure that the delay based established procedure is minimal. If you are a non-immigrant student or exchange visitor, here are some things you should do:
Check to see that your visa accurately reflects your correct visa classification.
If the visa states the name of the institution you will attend or identifies the exchange program in which you are participating, verify that this information is accurate as well. If your review indicates any discrepancies or potential problems, visit the U.S. Embassy or Consulate to obtain a new visa.
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Before leaving your country, confirm that your Certificate of Eligibility (Form DS-2019), passport and nonimmigrant visa are still valid for entry into the United States. The passport should be valid for at least six months beyond the date of your expected stay.
Students and exchange visitors entering the United States for the first time under their respective nonimmigrant visa classification may only be admitted up to 30-days prior to the program start date.
Documents you should carry on your person:
Passport (including attached envelope of immigration documents) with nonimmigrant visa;
SEVIS Form DS-2019;
Visa exempt nationals presenting a SEVIS Form DS-2019 issued on or after September 1, 2004, who are entering the United States for the first time should have a Form I-797, Receipt Notice or Internet Receipt verifying SEVIS Fee payment. For additional SEVP/SEVIS Program Information, refer to the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement website: https://www.ice.gov/ sevis/students
Evidence of sufficient financial resources.
In addition, it is recommended that you also carry the following documents: · Evidence of Student/Exchange Visitor status (recent tuition receipts, transcripts);
Name and contact information for Responsible Officer (RO) at your intended school or program;
Writing instrument (pen).
Arrival in the United States Customs declaration Travel and Arrival
Secondary Inspection Requirements
If possible you should wait until your application for a J-1 visa is approved before making travel plans. Travel arrangements and payment for travel arrangements are the responsibility of the J-1 visitor.
If the inspector cannot automatically verify your information or you do not have all of the required documentation, you may be escorted to an interview area known as “secondary inspection.” Secondary inspection allows inspectors to conduct additional research in order to verify information.
If you are traveling by aircraft, the flight attendants on board will distribute CF-6059 Customs Declaration Forms for reporting to the immigration services officer, before you land at your initial point-of-entry in the U.S. Complete these forms while you are on the aircraft and submit them to the appropriate Customs and Border Protection Officer upon your arrival. If you do not understand a form, ask the flight attendant for assistance. As you approach the inspection station at the port-of-entry, ensure that you have: passport, SEVIS Form DS-2019; and, CF-6059 Customs Declaration Form available for presentation to the CBP Officer. As of May 2013, the Form I-94, Arrival Departure Record is now an electronic document. Like all entering visitors, you will be asked to state the reason you wish to enter the United States. You will also be asked to provide information about your final destination. It is important that you tell the CBP Officer that you will be a student or exchange visitor. Be prepared to include the name and address of the school or exchange visitor program where you will enroll/participate. Once your inspection is complete, the inspecting officer will: Stamp your passport with your status (J1 or J2 for dependents) and Duration of status (“D/S”); and Return the SEVIS Form and your passport.
It is recommended that you have readily available the name and phone number of the foreign student advisor at your school or the person responsible for your J-1 Exchange Visitor Program in case your admission/participation needs to be verified. Failure to provide proper documentation and to comply with entry/exit procedures is cause to refuse the student or exchange visitor admission into the United States. In limited circumstances, if a student or exchange visitor is mostly, but not fully in compliance, he/she may be issued a Form I-515A, Notice to Student or Exchange Visitor. This form authorizes temporary admission for 30 days into the United States and requires the student or exchange visitor to take immediate action to submit proper documentation. Noncompliance with the directions contained on these forms can result in future adverse action.
Students willing to travel outboards Continuing students/exchange visitors who are going to travel outside of the United States must see their foreign student advisor and obtain an endorsement from the RO (responsible officer). The endorsement will be made on page 3 of the SEVIS Form DS-2019. When returning to the United States, a continuing student/exchange visitor must present a valid SEVIS Form DS-2019 with the RO signature showing that the student or exchange visitor is active and in good standing with the school or program.
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Welcome to San Ignacio University Meet the university, the team and the staff Arriving On Campus
Instructors And Coordinators
When you arrive on campus please contact Jennifer Gonzalez in Registrar and J-1 visa coordinator, located at the third floor of Business campus. The office is open Monday through Friday with appointments available from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. You should schedule an appointment when you arrive to U.S. by calling 305.629.2929, ext. 4024. You should bring wit passport, Form I-94 and Form DS-2019 for review and so that they may be duplicated for inclusion in your file.
Students may always request for information from instructors and coordinators directly. Coordinators are in charge of academic and activity calendars, course and instructors’ schedules, social responsibility activities, etc. Students in Faculty-led and Customized programs, please ask your own home university if you will have an online tutor or an on-site professor during your program at USIL and what procedures are to follow.
San Ignacio University campuses Business Campus 3905 NW 107th Avenue Suite 301, Doral, FL 33178
Culinary Arts Campus 10395 NW 41st Street Suite 125 Doral, FL 33178 Phone: (305) 629-2929 Fax: (305) 629-2910
Academic Overview You can always talk to faculty members and the San Ignacio University academic staff for further information. If an academic issue arises regarding exams, methodology, attendance, or any other related topic, try to discuss it with your instructor first. Always keep in mind that part of your experience abroad is to be open to different educational systems. Some students may not be used to attendance requirements or the evaluation system. The most appropriate way of dealing with academic issues is to discuss them with your instructor, course or program coordinator, dean (if applicable) or the academic service staff. You can also ask the International Office for guidance at any time. In the academic regulations booklet, you will find information about registration, admissions, attendance, course withdrawal, and other procedures designed for certain USIL programs.
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For academic concerns, please contact the Academic Coordinators: Business: Elio Acosta eacosta@sanignaciocollege.edu Culinary: Jeannette Ozga jozga@sanignaciocollege.edu For Student Services concerns, housing, or auxiliary matters, please contact the Student Services Coordinator, Oscar Cabrera at: ocabrera@sanignaciocollege.edu For non-academic or non-related to student services issues, please contact the Director of International Affairs, Alejandra Otero aotero@sanignaciocollege.edu
Buddy Program The International Buddy Program pairs current students with incoming international students. The main goal is to set every new international student with a San Ignacio University "buddy." These pairings then communicate through e-mail prior to the new student’s arrivals on campus. For international students, it will be a great benefit to have someone to talk to before they arrive in Miami, they can use this opportunity to practice their English, ask questions about life as a SIU student, the city of Miami, and get to know a local students; helping them feel a little less overwhelmed by their new environment easing their transition to San Ignacio University and to Miami. For more information about the buddy program, please contact the international admissions coordinator, Andreina Fernandez at: afernandez@sanignaciocollege.edu
Our team We are here to help you Staff Contact San Ignacio University count on with a dynamic team of collaborators from different nationalities and a multicultural approche’s, that will help you with any requirement in your exchange program.
Dr. Omar J. PagĂĄn Vice-President
Marisol Salcedo Director of Administration and Compliance
Alejandra Otero Director of International Affairs
Jennifer Gonzalez Registrar and J-1 Visa Coordinator
opagan@sanignaciocollege.edu
aotero@sanignaciocollege.edu
msalcedo@sanignaciocollege.edu
jgonzalez@sanignaciocollege.edu
Andreina Fernandez Business Development Assistant and International Admissions Coordinator
Valentina Fernandez Business development assistant
Elio Acosta Business Academic Coordinator
Oscar Cabrera Student Services Coordinator
vfernandez@sanignaciocollege.edu
afernandez@sanignaciocollege.edu
eacosta@sanignaciocollege.edu
ocabrera@sanignaciocollege.edu
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Responsibilities of students under a J-1 visa status Evaluation and attendance Evaluation
W Grade
In order to gain a better understanding of the American grading system, please see the following chart for a basic reference.
A student who formally withdraws from the institution before the mid-point (50% or half-way point) of a course will be assigned a grade of W for the course. The W grade is not included in the calculation of the CGPA and the credits for the course are not included in the determination of total credits attempted.
San Ignacio University - Grading System Letter Grade A AB+ B BC+ C CD+ D DF W TC
Description
Percent Equivalent
GPA
Excellent Excellent Good Above Averag Above Average Average Average Average Fail Fail Fail Fail Withdrawn** Transfer Credit
96-100% 90-95% 87-89% 83-86% 80-82% 77-79% 73-76% 70-72% 67-69% 63-66% 60-62% < 59% n/a n/a
4.0 3.7 3.3 3.0 2.7 2.5 2.2 2.0 1.7 1.3 1.0 0.0 n/a n/a
Part of Cumulative GPA Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes NO NO
* Grade not calculated into cumulative grade point average (CGPA) but course hours are included in total credits attempted. ** Grade not calculated in CGPA and course hours are not included in total credits attempted. TC Grade A grade of TC is assigned for a studentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s successful transfer of credits earned from an accredited institution. Neither the grade nor the credits are included in the CGPA or credits attempted calculations. The total number of credits transferred is deducted from the total number of credits needed for program completion. The maximum time frame (MTF) for a transfer student will be 1.5 times the total hours needed for program completion.
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In the U.S., evaluation is an important part of the learning process. At San Ignacio University, courses are content-based and competency-based. If you miss an evaluation, exam, quiz, test, mid-term exam, or final exam, you will not be allowed to make it up (except when there are two mid-term or two final exams scheduled at the same time). The instructor cannot reschedule a make-up exam for a student who has made a trip for the purpose of tourism or because of health issues. Please ask your instructor about the procedures followed when a student misses an evaluation.
Attendance And Tardiness Attendance and punctuality are important issues for a good understanding of each course. They show how committed students are to the course. Students are automatically withdrawn after 3 un-excused absences and Visa will be revoked. Instructors are to consider a student late after the first 10 minutes of class. However, students cannot be considered late after the first half of a class or during the second hour, when students arriving late will be considered absent. We highly recommend that students arrive to class on time as a way of showing respect for their instructors and classmates. Please keep in mind that you are in a different country and that the education system may be completely different. In some countries, attendance is not mandatory and students only go for exams. For San Ignacio University, attendance is required and considered an important issue. Part of your exchange experience is to be open to new cultures and also to different education systems.
US regulations governing the J visa status Duties, taxes, social security and others Your responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
1. Maintain Required Documentation: J scholars are required to maintain the following documents: valid DS-2019, valid passport, I-94 card marked D/S.
2. Report Address Changes to the International Student & Scholar Services Office (ISSS): All J-1 scholars must report a change of address within 10 days (of the address change) to the ISSS Office. ISSS will in turn provide the information to the US Department of Homeland Security through SEVIS, the electronic database which tracks all international students and scholars in the US.
3. Report Any Changes in Program to ISSS: J-1 programs are specific to the program description, department, and sponsor approved on the initial J-1 application. Scholars must notify the ISSS Office whenever there is a change in their program.
4. Maintain Adequate Health Insurance: J-1 scholars must maintain adequate health insurance for themselves and all J-2 dependents throughout their entire stay in the US. J-1 scholar’s health insurance policies must meet the health insurance requirements of the US Department of State. Failure to maintain appropriate insurance coverage will result in the termination of the scholar’s J-1 program.
5. Apply for an Extension Prior to the DS-2019 Expiration: Scholars are responsible for maintaining a valid DS- 2019 throughout their entire stay in the US in J-1 status. If the department in which the scholar is associated would like to extend the scholar’s J-1 program beyond the end date listed on the DS-2019, the sponsor must apply for an extension with the ISSS Office. Scholars in the Research Scholar or Professor categories have a maximum of five years to complete their J-1 program; Short-term scholars have 6 months; and J-1 degree seeking students have no limitation.
6. Obtain Travel Signature Prior to Traveling Outside the US: If a scholar will travel outside the US and then return to the US to resume their J-1 program, the scholar must have an ISSS Advisor’s signature on the
“Travel Validation by Responsible Officer” box of the DS -2019 BEFORE leaving the US. In addition, the scholar’s passport must be valid for a minimum of six months from the date the scholar will re-enter the US and the scholar must have a J-1 visa that is valid on the date of re-entry. The scholar should be aware that they must not leave their J-2 dependents in the US for a period longer than 30 days when the J-1 is out of the country.
Taxes - Social Security and Other Social Security Taxes - In general as a J-1 exchange visitor you will be exempt from Social Security taxes (known as FICA) for your first five years in the United States as long as you continue to declare nonresident status for tax purposes (see Internal Revenue Service Publication 519 Tax Guide for Aliens). Federal State and Local Taxes - Unless you qualify under a tax treaty between the United States and your home government your earnings as a J-1 exchange visitor will be subject to applicable federal state and local taxes. Employers are required by law to withhold those taxes from your paychecks. As an alien by April 15 of each year you must submit a federal income tax "return" to determine whether you owe more taxes or have a refund coming. At a minimum your return will consist of Form 1040NR (NR stands for "nonresident") of Form 1040EZ (EZ stands for "easy" the short form of the 1040NR which most J-1s can use) plus a Form 8843. For additional information you can access the following tax publications from the Internet Withholding of Tax on Nonresident Aliens and Foreign Corporations at https://www.irs.gov/publications/p515/index.html and US Tax Guide for Aliens at: https://www.irs.gov/publications/p519/
CFR Code of Federal Regulations Exchange Visitor Program Title 22 62.30 - 62.32 (Subpart B) If you will like to know more about the federal regulations for the Exchange Visitors Program, please visit: http://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/retrieveECFR? gp=&r=PART&n=22y1.0.1.7.35 - se22.1.62_123
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Work opportunities & Regulations Title 22, Section 62.23 Academic training
Authorization to engage in academic training:
The primary purpose of an Academic training with San Ignacio University is to enable the student to participate in a study abroad program, by enlarging his or her cultural experience with the posiblity to be employed during his or her studies in the United States. A student, may be authorized to participate in an academic training program with or without wages or other remuneration, following the criteria, time limitations, procedures, and evaluations listed below:
The student must present to the responsible officer a letter of recommendation from the student's academic dean or advisor setting forth:
The student is primarily in the United States to study
rather than engage in academic training; The student will participate in academic training that
is directly related to his or her major field of study at the accredited academic institution listed on his or her Form DS-2019; The student is in good academic standing with the
post-secondary accredited academic institution; and The student receives written approval in advance
from the responsible officer for the duration and type of academic training.
training program; (B) A description of the academic training program,
including its location, the name and address of the training supervisor, number of hours per week, and dates of the training; (C) How the academic training relates to the student's
major field of study; and (D) Why it is an integral or critical part of the
academic program of the student.
The responsible officer must (A) Determine if and to what extent the student has
previously participated in academic training as a student, in order to ensure the student does not exceed the period permitted in paragraph (f) of the Code of Federal Regulations.
Students may engage in part-time employment under certain conditions (20 hours per week).
(B) Review the letter of recommendation required in
The student is authorized to participate in academic training during his/her studies, or the time necessary to complete credits, goals and objectives of San Ignacio University.
(C) Make a written determination of whether the
J-1 students are permitted to accept employment under certain circumstances. An exchange visitor who engages in unauthorized employment shall be deemed to be in violation of his or her program status and is subject to termination as a participant in an exchange visitor program.
CFR - Code of Federal Regulations - Title 22, 62.23 If you will like to know more about the federal regulations for the Exchange Visitors Program, visit: https://www.nafsa.org/_/file/_/amresource/22cfr62.htm#6223f
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(A) The goals and objectives of the specific academic
paragraph (f)(5)(i) of this section; and academic training currently being requested is warranted and the criteria and time limitations set forth in paragraph (f)(3) and (4) of the Code of Federal Regulations.
J-1 Employment If you have questions or would like to determine your eligibility for J-1 employment* please contact Jennifer Gonzalez, Registrar and J-1 visa coordinator, at jgonzalez@sanignaciocollege.edu, her office is located at the third floor of Business campus. You should schedule an appointment by calling 305.629.2929, ext. 4024.
Academic calendar 2016/2017 Fall 2016
Summer 2017
August 15, 2016
Registration Begins
December 5, 2016
Registration Begins
August 29, 2016
Late Registrations Begins
December 16, 2016
Late Registrations Begins
September 2, 2016
New students orientation
January 6, 2017
New students orientation
September 5, 2016
Holiday: Labor Day
January 9, 2017
Classes Begins
September 6, 2016
Classes Begins January 13, 2017
Last day to: REGISTER, ADD or CHANGE SECTIONS of a course without the signature of the instructor.
January 16, 2017
Holiday: Marthin Luther King Jr.
September 12, 2016
September 19, 2016 September 19, 2016
September 30, 2016 October 7, 2016
Last day to CHANGE courses, ADD or CHANGE SECTIONS of a course without the signature of the instructor. Last day to CHANGE courses without a financial penalty. Last day to withdraw with 60% refund. Last day to withdraw with 40% refund. Last day to withdraw with 20% refund.
October 10, 2016
Holiday: Columbus Day
October 11-17, 2016
Midterm Exams
November 11, 2016
January 23, 2017 January 27, 2017
February 3, 2017 February 10, 2017
Last day to CHANGE courses without a financial penalty. Last day to withdraw with 60% refund. Last day to withdraw with 40% refund. Last day to withdraw with 20% refund.
February 20, 2017
Holiday: President's Day
Holiday: Veterans Day
February 13 - 22, 2017
Midterm Exams
November 24-25, 2016
Holiday: Thanksgiving
April 10 - 14, 2017
Spring Break
December 9, 2016
Last day to: WITHDRAW partially or totally from one or more courses with a W grade.
April 12, 2017
Last day to: WITHDRAW partially or totally from one or more courses with a W grade.
December 19-23, 2016
April 13, 2017
Holiday: Holy Thursday
Final Exams
April 14, 2017
Holiday: Good Friday
December 23, 2016
Classes End
April, 24 - 28, 2017
Final Exams
December 26, 2017
Last day for instructors post grades on Engrade.
April 28, 2017
Classes End
May 3, 2017
Last day for instructors post grades on Engrade.
December 26, 2016 to Christmas Break January 6, 2016
(*) All Business/Hospitality/Marketing/Int. Business classes have 15th weeks. Review dates on your schedule to see Last day of class. Week 16th will consist on make-up exams, grade appeals and revisions if necessary.
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SAN IGNACIO UNIVERSITY MIAMI San Ignacio University is a boutique school dedicated to educating future leaders in a variety of fields. Through offering theoretical and applied studies, San Ignacio University is focused on shaping socially responsible professionals with strong entrepreneurial spirits and global perspectives.
San Ignacio is also part of the San Ignacio de Loyola Educational Organization (OSIL), in Lima, Peru. Boasting more than 45 years of experience in education, and over 190 international partnership, OSIL and San Ignacio University are poised to offer students a well-reputed education with far-reaching opportunities.
Programs Graduate degrees Master in Business Administration International Business Human Resources Marketing MA in Hospitality Management MA in Education
Undergraduate degrees
AA/BA Business Administration AA/BA International Business AA/BA Hospitality Management AA/BA Marketing AS Culinary Arts
San Ignacio University siuniversity 3905 NW 107th Avenue Suite 301, Doral, FL 33178 Telephone: (305) 629 –2929 Fax: (305) 629-2910
SI_university
www.sanignaciocollege.com
San Ignacio University