For foreign students looking to attend Chinese American Schools – Alameda, getting accepted is the first step towards an exciting life filled with opportunity and possibilities. As the student prepares to study in America, the CAS-Alameda Students Services department will provide a series of helps to assist in the transition. We exist to serve our international students and our host families by providing academic, emotional, cultural, and spiritual support to ensure that our students are successful.

U.S. visa application support: CAS-Alameda will provide you with letters of support and documentation to bring with you for your interview for a U.S foreign student visa. Having helped many students obtain an F-1 visa, we can answer your questions about the process and make sure you are fully prepared.

Pre-trip orientation: Before your departure to the United States, we can help you prepare in knowing how to pack, what things you will need, how to keep in touch with your family, and what to expect as you travel away from home and live in a new setting.

Cultural assimilation: Life in the United States is different than China in many ways, not just language. Learning to live within a new culture, getting along with others, and understanding how people live and function are all lessons the foreign student will have to learn. We will provide the lessons and training to help make the adjustment easier.

Emotional support: What do you do when you feel homesick? How do you handle the frustrations of not speaking the language? Who do you turn to when no one understands? The Student Services department will assign friends and mentors to each student so there is always someone checking up on them, making sure they are doing OK.

Academic support: Need additional help understanding the homework? Had a hard time following the teacher’s lecture? The department can provide you with academic support to help you with your studies and point you to resources that will assist you in your academic endeavors.

Academic counseling: If you need help knowing which classes you should take, or what courses will help prepare you for college, our academic counselors will provide you guidance and advice so you can make the best choices.

Personalized Attention:
A key component of CAS is International Student Services (ISS). Designed to provide the “personal touch” to each student in the CAS program, ISS offers the following:

• Initial interview with potential candidates (in China)
• Step-by-step support through application process
• One-on-one meetings with students
• Regular social activities with other international students
• Academic oversight, referrals to tutoring as needed
• Counseling (personal, academic, social)
• Host Family assignment, orientation, and support

Please click here for Frequently Asked Questions about ISS program.