Office of International Student Services Newsletter

Week of May 6, 2008

 Volume V, Number 29

In This Issue

· Plan ahead: Postage costs increase May 14!
· Borrowing Closet
· Airline Packing Tips

·
Important Information

· Information for F-1 & J-1 students completing studies in May 2008
· New OPT rules
·
Fraud Alert: IRS does not send you e-mails
· Travel Signature
· Special Registration Process when traveling home
· Summer Options for F-1 &
J-1 Students

Upcoming Events

· May 9  - End-of-the Year Picnic
· May 9 - Left to Tell
· May 17 - MSS & OISS Graduation Reception
· April -May - What is  Citizenship? Who is a Citizen? Exhibit at Weisman

Interesting Articles

· Preparing to go home-
To Do list
 
 

Contact Us
oiss@stthomas.edu

Phone: 651 962-6650
Fax: 651 962-6655
Office: 161 MHC
http://www.stthomas.edu/oiss

How to send us news

Postage Rates to Increase May 14!
Ship packages home before then

Check out USPS's Postage Price Calculator  to determine the price of sending your package internationally http://ircalc.usps.gov/

 

 

Borrowing Closet

 Do you have items that can't fit in your suitcase? Items you think new international students would appreciate next fall?

If so, please bring them to OISS starting the week of May 12.  Items should be in a box (with a lid or cover).

Items particularly needed:

  • sheets/bedding (clean!)
  • plates, silverware, and other kitchen items
  • electronic items
 

Packing Tips

Now, its time to start packing up the memories… and all the items you’ve collected over your time here.

Packing for International Flights

First, check with your airline. Most international flights will allow 2 suitcases, weighing 50 lbs, or 23 kilos. Some airlines will allow heavier suitcases (weighing up to 70 lbs.) for an additional cost (generally about $50). There are also strict guidelines on suitcase dimensions and so it is important to follow with these regulations.

Luggage Size and Weight Requirements. For all major airlines, the basic rule for luggage is that you may check two pieces of luggage, size 62 in/ 157cm or smaller, and weighing 50lbs/23 kgs or less. For carry-ons, you may have one piece of luggage to carry on size 45 in/114 cm and weighing 40lbs/18kgs or less (this excludes normal sized purses or laptop carrying bags). An exception to this general rule is flights to Brazil – your luggage can weigh up to 70 lbs without being charged extra.

Overweight Charges. For overweight bags the general rule is as follows. Customers who travel in Economy Class with checked baggage over 50 lbs (23 kg) and not exceeding 70 lbs (32 kg) will be charged at the rate of $50.00 per piece. These charges are in addition to any charge assessed for additional or oversized baggage. Baggage weighing more than 70 lbs (32 kg) will not be accepted as checked baggage.

Check Your Airline Rules. We recommend that you check with your specific airline to find out exact details. For links to the airlines at MSP airport, visit the http://www.mspairport.com/msp/Airlines/passenger.aspx