Question 1

Who should attend?

Accepted Answer

All new and incoming international students and scholars.

Question 2

Do I need to register to attend?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Registration is required so we can plan seating, materials, and staffing. Space may be limited, and walk-ins cannot be guaranteed entry.

Question 3

What does it mean to “reserve my seat”?

Accepted Answer

Reserving your seat confirms your intent to attend and helps us prepare appropriately. It does not involve any payment.

Question 4

What if I register but can no longer attend?

Accepted Answer

Email ISSS at ISSSOffice@rpi.edu. Include your Rensselaer Identification Number (RIN) in the email subject or body/message so we can look up your record.

Question 5

What should I bring with me?

Accepted Answer

Your mobile device, a notebook, a writing utensil, and your spirit of competition (important for our activities/games such as Immigration Trivia).

Question 6

Is there a dress code?

Accepted Answer

There is no formal dress code. Please wear something comfortable. January is one of the coldest months in Troy, so dressing in layers is strongly encouraged—especially if you’ll be walking to the event.

Question 7

Can I bring guests?

Accepted Answer

The event is meant for new students and scholars, however, if you plan to bring a guest (for example a parent, spouse, or family member that is traveling with you), you must reserve a separate ticket for them so we can ensure proper seating.

Question 8

Will  food/beverages be provided?

Accepted Answer

There will be light refreshments available. We will provide hot coffee, tea, fruit, and pastries. Cold water is available from water fountains in the library.

Question 9

Are masks required?

Accepted Answer

Masks are not required. Masks will be available for anyone who prefers to wear one. If you are experiencing any symptoms, or have recently been in close contact with someone who is sick, we strongly encourage you to wear a mask to help reduce the spread of illness.

Question 10

Venue  (Accessibility)

Accepted Answer

The venue has a ground-level entrance with wheelchair-accessible ramps, and the building is equipped with an elevator. See next FAQ on Parking for more information.

Question 11

Parking (Accessibility)

Accepted Answer

The closest option to park is at the main RPI parking garage, located at 92 College Avenue, Troy, NY 12180. Note there is a second entrance/reference point being around 65 College Ave; use 92 College Ave for GPS for best results.

Question 12

Who can I contact if I have questions not covered in these FAQs?

Accepted Answer

Email ISSS at ISSSOffice@rpi.edu. Include your Rensselaer Identification Number (RIN) in the subject or message so we can look up your record. ISSS aims to reply to all emails within 2 - 3 business days. RPI is closed December 24, 2025 through January 02, 2026. ISSS returns January 05, 2026.

Spring 2026 International Student Welcome

Overview

Good to know

Location

How do you want to get there?

Frequently asked questions

Organized by

Reba Cappelli, International Student Advisor

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