Information for International Students
Welcome to CSU! International students, you are a valued part of our community and we are here to support you. We know that sometimes things just happen in our life and we all need guidance, counseling, and advice to help us to move forward. Student Legal Services is here to do just that. We can talk to you about many different legal questions or concerns that might come up while you are a student at CSU. Please see some valuable information below to get started. Contact SLS for more information or an appointment.
Driving
- Car insurance is required. if you have a car, buy a car, or drive a car in the United States, you must have car insurance.
- You can drive without a U.S. driver’s license if you are in Colorado as student only and are paying full tuition (which means you are temporarily in the U.S.). you may need a Colorado driver’s license to get insurance in the United States
- All driving violations are serious. Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs can have huge consequences to your immigration status. Speeding, reckless, and careless driving can cause you to lose your driving privileges.
Marijuana Policy for International Students
Visa holders and international students are required to obey all federal immigration laws. Some states have legalized marijuana use and possession. However, marijuana use and possession continues to be PROHIBITED under the federal laws. Visa holders and international students CANNOT use or possess marijuana in any state.
Buying a Used Car
- Do not hand over money to buy a used car until you have examined the documents and the car.
- Make sure you are dealing with the actual owner of the car
- Is the car in working condition? Get it checked out by a mechanic before you buy.
Alcohol
- Drinking or possessing alcohol is illegal is you if are under the age of 21.
- Even if you are over 21 years of age, you cannot carry an open container of alcohol in public.
Fighting
- Fighting and arguments can cause many problems.
- It can be illegal to throw something against a wall, yell, or prevent someone from leaving a space.
Police
- The police are here to protect you when you need protection. Call the police if you are in danger.
- If you are part of a fight, car crash, or some other type of illegal activity, you could be charged with a crime.
- If a police officer asks you to identify yourself, you must accurately identify yourself and show identification.
- Never use a fake ID or give false information.
- You are not required to answer any questions other than to identify yourself.
- You have the right to remain silent until you have had the opportunity to speak to an attorney.
Renting
- Talk to SLS before signing any documents, contracts, or lease.
- Be aware of joint liability clauses that require you to be responsible for your roommates’ actions.
- Never pay rent in cash.
- Protect your security deposit with a move in inventory, pictures, and a narrated video.
