Finances
You should carry a limited amount of cash in U.S. dollars with you when you arrive. Most students find that carrying a combination of cash (about $300) and a credit card is most helpful. There are several banks within walking distance of campus if you would like to set up a bank account in the United States. Refer to money and banking for more information.
If you will receive funding from a graduate assistantship, your first check may not be available for a month or so.
Check-in and International Student Welcome
International Student and Scholar Services provides an orientation to give new international students essential information for your time at MU. You are required to attend an immigration check-in session and International Student Welcome.
Check-in
If you arrive in Columbia before International Student Welcome, you may check in with International Student and Scholar Services early. Check-in sessions are typically offered at least two weeks before and one week after the semester begins. You must sign up for a check-in session online.
International Student Welcome
The International Student Welcome schedule will be updated as event details are confirmed each semester. International Student Welcome is mandatory for all new students. If you are unable to attend for any reason, you must notify ISSS (isss@missouri.edu).
English language exam
All new degree-seeking undergraduate students (freshmen and transfer) are required to take the English Language Exam before registering for classes. This exam is required even if you have already submitted English language proficiency test scores for admission to MU (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo). The exam is administered in person at 9 a.m. the Tuesday before classes begin, and registration is required.
MyMathTest assessment for undergraduate students
To enroll in a Department of Mathematics course, you must meet certain criteria. You can determine whether you need to complete the MyMathTest by going to the math placement website. There is no fee or registration required to take the assessment, and you will be given an unlimited number of attempts to complete it.
International Teaching Assistant Program
Any new international graduate student who has a teaching assistantship for the upcoming semester must attend the Orientation for New International Teaching Assistants. However, most new international students will not begin teaching in the first semester.
Graduate School orientation
The Graduate School may offer orientation events during the week before the semester begins. Many departments also offer departmental orientations for graduate students. You are encouraged to attend both departmental and Graduate School orientations.
Housing
It is your responsibility to make housing arrangements either before or after you arrive in Columbia.
On-campus housing
If you would like to live on campus, you must apply as soon as possible — the residence halls fill up quickly. More information is available on the Residential Life website.
On-campus apartments are available for students who are married, 21 years old or older, pursuing a graduate degree or have children.
Off-campus housing
Rental prices vary widely in Columbia (approximately $300–$500 per month for shared housing). Apartments closer to campus are typically more expensive. Off-campus housing arrangements require deposits for rent and utilities, as well as the purchase of some furnishings, linens and cooking utensils. Begin looking prior to arrival — the most desirable apartments or roommate situations will go quickly. Resources and rental listings are available on the Off-Campus Student Services website.
MU student ID
After you arrive on campus and register for courses, you will need to obtain an MU student ID card. You should go to the ID office, located in the lower level of the Mizzou Store in the Student Center. Be sure to take your passport and any other photo ID with you.
Once you receive your MU ID, always keep it with you. You can use your ID to access many services on campus:
- Borrow books from the library
- Access campus computing facilities
- Pay bills on campus
- Access student health services
- Use the Mizzou Rec Center
- Purchase student tickets for athletic events
- Participate in university-sponsored events and activities
- Access your residence hall and dining plan
- Purchase items from the Mizzou Store
- Do laundry in a residence hall
Refer to the Division of Information Technology website for more details.