Below you will find answers to frequently asked questions. If you cannot find the answer here, you can call the office (713-348-6095) or send an email (oiss@rice.edu) for general questions. For more specific inquiries, please schedule an appointment with an OISS advisor.
Where can I find out more information about health insurance?
To learn more about health insurance options for Rice scholars, please read the Scholar Health Insurance webpage.
Why do I have to report my address and how can I do it?
All international scholars must report a change of address within 10 days of change by updating a valid local address as the place of residence while in the U.S. Failure to do so can result in serious consequences, including the termination of a visa status. Update your local address in the Mailing Address field in ESTHER. If you do not have a Mailing Address field to update, you may update your Permanent Address field with your local address information. Certain sponsored groups may not have access to ESTHER, and should use the OISS Change of Address Form for address updates.
**If you are on a visa type other than F-1 or J-1, please also complete and submit the USCIS Form AR-11.
To bring your dependents to the U.S. on a J-2 dependent visa, please read the Dependents and Family webpage.
Do I qualify for a social security number (SSN)? How do I obtain one?
If you are employed in the U.S. and earning wages, you are eligible for a SSN. Please read our Social Security Number webpage for more information.
OISS organizes multiple events and workshops throughout the year to enrich your experience while at Rice. Our events are always listed on the Event Calendar on our website, so check back often. Please also visit the Events & Programs menu on this website.
I want to take an English class. Where can I sign up to take it?
OISS offers free English Conversation and Culture classes every semester. These classes are taught by volunteers who enjoy meeting and helping Rice internationals. These classes are not for credit, but rather for practice and are a great way to make new friends. To learn more about the classes offered and how to sign up, please visit the English Classes webpage. If you are interested in more formal English classes, please visit the Rice ESL (English as a Second Language) Program website.
