International Families

Welcome to Nashville!

Behind each international student at Vanderbilt University, there is a network of family and supporters who helped make their academic journey possible. Congratulations on reaching this important milestone!

We know that helping your student navigate college life so far from home can be an added challenge. That’s why Vanderbilt has dedicated staff to help international students and families with everything from visa and immigration logistics to academic advising and English language practice.

Nashville is a world-class city that is connected to the knowledge-based, global economy. We’re here to help your student feel at home in their new city and take advantage of all the opportunities available on and off campus.

Commodore Connection Newsletters

The Commodore Connection is the primary vehicle of communications with our parent community. As a monthly e-newsletter, we strive to engage and inform parents of key campus resources and updates. With additional consideration of highlighting strategic university priorities such as the residential experience, Opportunity Vanderbilt, Experience Vanderbilt, Student Care Network, and other university initiatives.

If you are not receiving our monthly Commodore Connection newsletters, please email us at parents@vanderbilt.edu and we will add you to our distribution list.

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At your service

From visa guidance to tax workshops, International Student & Scholar Services (ISSS) staff are dedicated to helping your family with the logistics related to the international student experience. Find information about immigration policies, student employment, expenses, and more. ISSS staff are available for one-on-one consultations through Virtual Advising.

International Student and Scholar Services

First Friends

First Friends facilitates cross-cultural exchange through friendship, connecting Vanderbilt University international students with Americans on and off campus. An annual program coordinated by International Students & Scholar Services (ISSS), First Friends begins each academic year as hundreds of students travel from around the world to study at Vanderbilt. International students join First Friends to experience American life and culture. At the same time, they bring unique experiences from their home countries that they are ready and willing to share with new friends.

Learn More

Campus Contact

International Student and Scholar Services

(615) 322-2753
isss@vanderbilt.edu

Still need help finding what you’re looking for? We’ll be happy to point you in the right direction! Feel free to send us an email at parents@vanderbilt.edu.