International Parents and Families

Sending your student to a new country is an exciting process that comes with its own set of questions. Michigan State University is proud of its international student population, which is among the largest of any university in the United States, and MSU welcomes and wishes to support all international students. We hope the following resources will help you get a better sense of the MSU community and some of the resources available to help support you and your student. The Office for International Students and Scholars exists to provide support to international students, scholars and families. Examples of services provided include:

  • Advising on and facilitating compliance with U.S. immigration regulations.
  • Conducting orientations and other special programming that help international students and scholars integrate and adjust to the academic, cultural, and social life of MSU.
  • Serving as a liaison with U.S. government agencies, foreign embassies, sponsors, and educational foundations that support international students and scholars.
  • Contributing to the internationalization of MSU by providing opportunities for growth through cross-cultural interactions.

If your student is living on campus, here is information regarding winter break housing at Michigan State University:

In the fall, the residence halls close for the winter break at 8 p.m. on the Friday of finals week. By that time, all residents (except those living in Owen Hall, Van Hoosen Hall, University Village and Spartan Village) are required to leave the halls during this time period. Students who are interested in staying on campus can apply for a Between Semester Housing Plan. It includes housing for residents in their current rooms for the duration of winter break and meals in select dining halls. The total cost for the Between Semester Housing plan will be charged to the individual’s student account. Families seeking shorter-term accommodations for winter break can contact the Kellogg Hotel & Conference Center.

Additionally, please click here for more information and videos regarding on campus housing at Michigan State University.