Pre-Arrival Information

Once you've decided on Luther as your first choice, you will be asked to pay a non-refundable $400 enrollment deposit. At that point, you should access and read the pre-arrival guide.

Among the documents in the packet, you will find health forms, information about immunizations, a health insurance application, the travel arrangements form, and information about New International Student Orientation.

The most important documents in your packet will be your I-20 form. International Admissions will also send you a I-901 form which is your SEVIS receipt. You will need to take both forms to the embassy to apply for an F-1 Student Visa. The packet also contains tips for a successful consular visit.

International Student Orientation

August 23 - 25, 2023

 This is the time when you learn vital things about living in the United States and life at Luther.  Current students and staff from the Center for Intercultural Engagement and Student Success (CIES) will welcome the incoming international students and get you all the resources you need for a successful start to your time at Luther. You will get to explore the campus and town, get to know other students, and have some fun. Some highlights of past orientations were exploring downtown Decorah, setting up an American bank account, learning about campus resources, playing “Norse-opoly”, and meeting other Luther students.

Friendship Family Program

All new international students are matched with a family through the Friendship Family Program. You will meet your family during orientation. You do not live with the family. Instead, your family will occasionally invite you to activities, home-cooked meals, or celebrations. It's an excellent way to get to know an American family and for them to learn about you and your home and culture. You are not required to have a Friendship Family. If you do not wish to have a family, please contact [email protected].

To sign up, see the Friendship Family Application for Students, and complete your application before August 1, 2022.