International Student Advising

Please read the information below including a list of advisors and the specific services that they each provide.

For questions or additional information, please contact the International Office via email or call (323) 343-3170. Please note that the International Office is now located in the GE Building, Room 220 (2nd floor).

Important Announcement

update announcement

Changes in Student Advising

  • We are pleased to inform you that international students are now being paired with an International Student Advisor according to their family names.
  • This adjustment aims to provide you with even more personalized and efficient support throughout your academic journey!

Who is My Assigned International Student Advisor?

Please refer to the list below to find your advisor and their advising hours.

James Fukaye

Advises family names beginning with

  • A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, I

  • Q, R, S, T

Virtual Walk-In Hours
Appointments

Rigzin Norbu

Advises family names beginning with

  • J, K, L, M, N, O, P

  • U, V, W, X, Y, Z

Virtual Walk-In Hours
Appointments

Resources

 
  • To request an I-20 from ISSO, refer to the email invitation sent to your MyCalStateLA email.
    • This international student portal gives you access to your ISSO student profile where you can request your I-20 for studies at CSULA.
  • IMPORTANT: Students must log in to the international student portal with their MyCalStateLA ID. You can activate your myCalStateLA ID here. This is different from your GET login information. Once you have your myCalStateLA ID and password, you may begin to use your myCalStateLA portal and campus email.
  • If you don’t see an icon for the International Student Portal in the Quick Launch, click on - https://international.calstatela.edu/index.cfm?FuseAction=Security.AngLogin and click on MyCalStateLA Login.
  • If you have questions about your I-20, email us at [email protected].

Post Completion OPT:

OPT provides an opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge from your academic program to practical work experience. This employment must be directly related to your major field of study. If you meet the eligibility requirements, you may be authorized for 12 months of OPT and another twelve months of OPT when you complete a higher education level. OPT requires authorization from USCIS before you can start work; this procedure takes at least 90 days but can, and often does, take longer.  

Students must complete the OPT Course in Canvas before applying for OPT. After completing the Canvas course, students must apply for the OPT I-20 via the International Student Portal.

STEM OPT

Students with eligible STEM majors may apply to extend their post completion OPT for two additional years. Students must apply for the STEM OPT I-20 via the International Student Portal.

General OPT questions can be addressed via virtual walk-in hours, virtual appointments or e-mail.

*OPT processing time is 7 business days.

  • For more information about Study Abroad, and for current exchange students, please email the Study Abroad Office or call (323) 343-3170.