How can I view the pre-registration tutorial resources?

If you watched the pre-registration tutorial you may want to access the resources that were listed at the end. There is a list of common terms and their definitions that were used throughout the tutorial. There is a list of frequently asked questions specifically relating to the pre-registration tutorial and the process of selecting your classes. The last document is a list of contact information in case you have questions or problems.

.

CSN Funding - Troubleshooting Guide

If you have a question about the status of the SBCC documentation required for your CSN funding, please review this troubleshooting guide before contacting our office for further assistance.

If you requested a transcript showing your courses and grades and need to inquire about the status of your transcript, email Aida Whitham in Admissions & Records with your complete name and K# and the date you ordered your transcript in Pipeline: whithama@sbcc.edu

If you requested verification of your registration status and/or the school signature on your STUDY ASSURANCE form, contact Agatha Louie in Admissions & Records with your complete name and K# and the approximate date you submitted your request: louie@sbcc.edu.

A note about the STUDY ASSURANCE/SCHOOL SIGNATURE form: Oftentimes students request a letter that verifies their registration/enrollment status from our office before they receive their "STUDY ASSURANCE/SCHOOL SIGNATURE" form from CSN. While the verification letter from SBCC can be used in lieu of the school signature on the STUDY ASSURANCE form, you must personally sign the STUDY ASSURANCE form and submit it to CSN. If CSN receives the verification letter, but not your STUDY ASSURANCE form with your signature, chances are they will tell you your paperwork is incomplete.

What is your phone number?

Our phone number is 001.805.730.4040.

Need an SBCC transcript?

Before placing your request for an SBCC official transcript, you must first clear any holds on your account in Pipeline and pay the balance owed on your account in full.
- If you are currently in Santa Barbara, you can place your request in person by completing the Transcript Request form. This form is available in the ISSP and Admissions & Records offices.
- If you are currently in your home country, you can place your request by following the instructions for online orders at the link provided.
- You can print an unofficial transcript from your Pipeline account.

Do you need proof of your SBCC enrollment status?

To request proof of your full-time enrollment at SBCC, follow these simple steps:

First, check your Pipeline account to confirm that you are currently enrolled full-time (at least 12 credits). You should also check for any holds that may be on your account. You must be enrolled full-time and clear any holds before placing your request.

Next, fill out the "Authorization for Release of Information" form. You will need to decide if you want to pick up your enrollment verification letter, or know the address where you want it to be mailed. Turn it in to Admissions & Records in Student Services and make sure you have your ID with you.

Your request will be processed in 7-10 business days.

The semester has already started, but I need to go back to my home country. What do I do?

It's important to notify your advisor of your intention to return to your home country right away! If you do not inform your advisor, your SEVIS record may be terminated for a violation of your visa. This may cause you problems obtaining any type of visa for the U.S. in the future. It is also important to note that you must depart the U.S. within 15 days after you drop your classes. You will also need to follow these steps:

- Give a copy of your departure flight reservation to your advisor. You can bring a copy in to our office, fax it to (805) 965-0781, or email it directly to your advisor.

- If the withdrawal deadline has not passed, you must withdraw from your classes. Otherwise, your SBCC transcript may show failing grades for the current semester.

- If the refund deadline has not passed, you can apply for a refund by following the instructions at the link provided. Please note that the health center, transportation and student representation fees are non-refundable, and a $10 processing fee will subtracted from your refund.

How do I request a refund?

Refunds are not automatic. It is best to request a refund by filling out the Refund Request form at the International Student Support Program office (ISSP). Your advisor can help you determine your eligibility and check your Refund Request form for accuracy. If you do not place a request for a refund, the amount of money owed to you will remain in your student account for use in the following semester.
For more information on applying for a refund, visit the Cashier's refund page.

How do I change my major in Pipeline?

To change your major or program of study in Pipeline, download the document below and follow the instructions. If you have questions about which classes you should take to complete your program of study, meet with an Academic Counselor in the International Office!

California Driver's Licenses and ID cards

International driver's licenses are not accepted in California if you are an F-1 visa student. Police officers and highway patrol officers can give you a ticket for driving without a California driver's license.

If you don't plan on driving, you can apply for a California ID card to use as official ID while you're in the U.S. Keep your passport in a safe place instead of carrying it around on a daily basis.

To get started on your application for a driver's license or ID card, go to the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) web site for information, to find DMV office locations, and to make an appointment.

The basic steps to apply for a driver's license are listed below. Refer to the DMV web site or make an appointment at the local DMV office for specific details and instructions.

1. First time applicants ? written exam + driving test

2. Study the CA Driver?s Manual & sample tests

3. Obtain social security ineligibility letter (visit the Social Security Administration office in the Paseo Nuevo shopping center with your I-20, visa and passport)

4. Make an appointment with the DMV

5. Take the written test

6. Take the driving test (not required if you have a driver's license from another U.S. state)


The basic steps to apply for a California ID card are listed below. Refer to the DMV web site or make an appointment at the local DMV office for specific details and instructions.

1. Obtain social security ineligibility letter (visit the Social Security Administration office in the Paseo Nuevo shopping center with your I-20, visa and passport)

2. Make an appointment with the DMV

3. Fill out the application, give your thumbprint, have your picture taken, pay the fee

Where can I find legal assistance?

If you need legal advice, The Student Legal Center offers professional legal counsel on campus every Monday and Thursday when school is in session. Buy your "Activity Sticker" for $10 to take advantage of this service. To make an appointment, call the Office of Student Life at 805-730-4062

For more information about this valuable service, go to The Student Legal Center website

How to Crash a class

Are you trying to get into a class that is closed? You may need to crash that class. Read this PDF for an explanation of how to crash a class along with some tips that may increase your chances of getting an add code!

What do I do if my passport is going to expire?

All F-1 visa students must have a valid passport at all times. If your passport is going to expire or is expired, please refer to the list of Consulates in the United States. Find your consulate, contact their office, and begin the process of renewing your passport.

You will also need to bring to the International Student Office any documentation the consulate gives you regarding your passport renewal.

My I-20 is expiring soon, but I need more time to complete my studies. What should I do?

To apply for an extension of your I-20, gather and complete the list of required documents listed here and make an appointment with your International Student Advisor. I-20 extensions must be completed >b>before your I-20 expires!

1. Financial Statement form signed by student and sponsor
2. Official, original bank statement or government funding letter
3. Student Educational Plan (SEP)- To obtain an updated SEP, see an Academic Counselor
4. Read and sign the F-1 Status Student Responsibilities form
5. Current I-20, visa, passport, and I-94 card (the I-94 is the white card in your passport)

To make an appointment with an Academic Counselor or your Advisor, call 805-730-4040

I finished ESL level 5. Do I need to change my I-20?

If you complete ESL level 5 and have an English Language Training I-20, you need to apply for a new I-20 by completing these requirements:

1. Register for PD 149
2. Student Educational Plan (SEP) - obtained in PD 149
3. Financial Statement form signed by student and sponsor
4. Official, original bank statement or government funding letter
5. Read and sign the F-1 Status Student Responsibilities form
6. Current I-20, visa, passport, and I-94 card (the I-94 is the white card in your passport)

Once you gather all of the required documents, make an appointment with your Advisor by calling (805) 730-4040

If my visa is damaged, do I have to apply for a new one?

If your visa is damaged in some way, such as water damage, it is automatically considered invalid by U.S. port-of-entry officials even if your data and picture are still legible. You must apply for a new visa the next time you travel outside of the U.S. if you are planning to come back to continue your studies.

I need to renew my visa. What documents do I need from school?

.

Do I have health insurance over the summer?

If you are enrolled in any class at SBCC during summer session, you will automatically have health insurance coverage for the entire summer.

If you are NOT enrolled in any class at SBCC during the summer session, you have to take an extra step to maintain your health coverage. Simply download the PDF form below, fill it out, sign it, and send it with your payment information to Renaissance Insurance Agency. The cost is $166. The insurance will cover you even when you travel outside of the U.S.

The International Office highly recommends that all international students purchase the extended summer health insurance coverage. Why do we think it's so important? If something happens over the summer and you are not covered, the insurance will not pay for any of the bills related to it - even if you still need more treatment when you return in the fall semester.

How do I complete the I-94 form?

At the Port of Entry, you will be required to complete an I-94 form. It is very important to complete this form accurately. Please refer to the attached instructions for more information.

I am renewing my visa. How can I show my SBCC grades and/or enrollment status?

If you need to apply for or renew your visa the next time you travel to your home country, you will need to show the visa official proof of your student status.

If you are in your first semester at SBCC AND you are traveling during winter break, you can prove your enrollment status by following these instructions. Your fall semester grades will not be posted until January.
1. Register in at least 12 credits for the upcoming semester
(Waitlisted classes will not count towards 12 credits)
2. Print a copy of your "My Class Schedule and Bill"
3. Fill out the Authorization for Release of Information form. Link to the form below.
(We recommend choosing "pick-up" on the form. It will take 5-7 business days.)
4. Take everything including your student ID card to the Admissions & Records
Office in Student Services
5. Once you are back in your home country, print your unofficial transcript from Pipeline
and take it with you to apply for your visa if any of your grades are posted.

If you are a continuing student OR if it is your first semester and you are traveling in summer you need to order an official SBCC transcript:
1. Register in at least 12 credits for the upcoming semester
(Waitlisted classes will not count towards 12 credits)
2. Fill out the "Official Transcript Request Form"
3. Take everything including your student ID card to the Admissions & Records
Office in Student Services. Transcript requests will be processed in 5-7 business
days, so you may need to provide a self-addressed envelope with your home country
address.