Orientation, or New International Student Welcome, is the mandatory check-in for all new and returning international students.

New International Student Welcome

New International Student Welcome is a 1-day in-person welcome where students learn about PCC, the benefits of the F-1 visa, connect with new and current students, and tools necessary for F-1 student success. New International Student Welcome is mandatory for all new and returning PCC international students.

Attending New International Student Welcome will qualify you for priority registration #3, which means you get to select classes earlier than other students with no priority registration. 

Spring 2026 New International Student Welcome
Mandatory for all new and returning F-1 international students admitted to Fall 2025 term

Wednesday, February 4, 2026
8:00AM - 4:00PM (Check-in starts at 8:00AM)
Westerbeck Recital Hall (Center for the Arts or CA Building)
Breakfast and lunch provided

Schedule (Approximate)

8:00 AM: Check-in Starts and Breakfast
8:30 AM: Program Starts
8:30 AM to 12:00 PM: Mandatory New Student Workshops and Visa Verification
12:00PM: Lunch
1:00PM - 4:00PM: Class Registration Support, Meet with Academic Counselors, Visa Benefits Questions, Campus Tour

Transportation and Parking

  • PCC's address is 1570 E. Colorado Boulevard Pasadena, CA 91106. Access here for additional directions
  • The nearest parking lot to Westerbeck Hall in Center for the Arts Building is Lot 5
  • Remember to pay for your parking by cash or credit card using the yellow parking permit machines located on each floor


Documents to Bring

Additional Information

  • New International Student Welcome is mandatory for all new PCC international students. Students cannot reschedule
    → Failure to complete New International Student Welcome will result in registration delays, negative effects on your F-1 visa status and/or delayed start to the next semester. Please plan accordingly
  • Arrive on time and stay for the entire event. Re-arrange your plans to ensure you attend the whole program.   
  • Parents and guardians are encouraged to join. A separate Parent Orientation is scheduled at the same time as New International Student Welcome
  • Breakfast and lunch is provided
  • Questions regarding Orientation can be directed to international@pasadena.edu

Commonly Asked Questions

Do I have to attend orientation? My flight is arriving after that.

Orientation dates are shared with you through email, on your acceptance letter, and on your PCC I-20. Because this is a mandatory requirement for your F-1 visa, if you fail to attend orientation, this can have negative effects on your F-1 visa and your selection of classes. Please plan to arrive by your assigned Orientation date.

I signed up for JAM orientation. Do I have to attend International Student Orientation?

Yes, you are required to attend International Student Orientation even if you have signed-up or attended JAM orientation. JAM is a separate welcome event for ALL PCC students, while International Student Orientation is designed just for international students. Attending International Student Orientation is required as part of your F-1 visa responsibilities. 

What time does International Student Orientation start? 

Check-in and breakfast starts at 8:00AM. Plan to arrive on time to avoid missing out on critical information related to your visa benefits and responsibilities. 

Do I have to stay for the entire International Student Orientation? 

You are required to attend all morning sessions (8:00AM to 1:00PM). Afternoon sessions are optional and we highly recommend you to stay for afternoon activities to maximize your success and support at PCC. 

I have an appointment in the middle of International Student Orientation. Can I be excused? 

No, you cannot be excused. International Student Orientation is part of your visa requirements and you must attend. Please reschedule your appointment to another date.