Current Students - Student Affairs - Resources - For Affinity Groups

If I am an international student, what’s the process of getting a driver’s license? 

You must obtain a Virginia driver's license from the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) as soon as possible. You can only use your foreign driving license or an international driving permit for up to 30 days, starting from the day you arrive in the U.S. Non-U.S. license holders are required to take a vision test, a driving theory test (multiple choice), and a short practical driving test. Students who hold a valid driver’s license from another US state or territory, Canadian province, France, Germany, Japan, Taiwan or South Korea have different eligibility requirements than those who hold a valid driver’s license issues from a country outside of those listed above.  You will also need to provide and complete following:

1. Two proofs of identification
2. Proof of Virginia Residency (e.g., a lease agreement on your house/apartment)
3. A drivers test, based on the Virginia River’s Code – a copy of which can be obtained from the DMV. 

It is recommended that you study the Code carefully before taking the theory test, as you may be asked some quite specific questions about braking distances, parking regulations, etc. 

Where is the Virginia DMV?

To avoid a long wait, go in the middle of the month and avoid weekends. You can make an appointment or drop by at the nearest DMV location to Darden. 
In addition, to completing your driver’s test, at this location you should be able to do the following:

• Purchase Virginia license plates
• Purchase a Virginia driver's license

If I am an international student, what should I know about vehicle insurance?

• All drivers in the US must have car insurance before operating a vehicle.
• International students should be aware that unless they have had a US Driver’s License for three years, they will have difficulty finding car insurance at “normal” rates. If you are considering purchasing a car upon arrival in the U.S. or shipping a car to the US, insurance rates may influence your decision as to what type of car you should buy. The older and less expensive a vehicle, the lower the insurance rates on that vehicle will be.
• It is recommended that you purchase car insurance initially for a six-month period, after which time you can attempt to renegotiate a better premium on the basis of your six-month US driving history.

Opening a Bank Account in Charlottesville

Every bank has a different fee structure, and you should consider types of fees and policies for frequent transactions you will make such as wire transfers, direct deposits, and bill payments.

Before signing a contract, you should ask if there is an availability for a no fee account or some other special offer. It’s possible that some banks have promotions for being a UVA student.

If you will be transferring funds to and from overseas, mention this since some banks can accommodate this better.

The International Students & Scholars Program at the International Studies Office recommends Bank of America or Wells Fargo for international students. Both banks have branch offices adjacent to the University and Bank of America has an office on Grounds in Newcomb Hall. Both banks have branches located at Barracks Road Shopping Center. It is important to research the differences between each bank to match your needs to the services provided.

Some banks offer special rates or packages for Darden students, so it is recommended to ask each bank before deciding where to open your account

What do I need to open a bank account as an international student?

To open a bank account, you will need the following:

• Two forms of photo ID. You can use your UVA ID and passport.
• You will also need your immigration document (I-20 or DS-2019) and proof of your address, such as a utility bill addressed to you.
• You do not need a Social Security Number (SSN). If the teller states that you need an SSN, you can ask to speak to a manager and inform them you are an international student/scholar.
• You will fill out a W-8, which is a statement of foreign residence in lieu of presenting a Social Security card.

As an international student, what are the types of cards I can use to make transactions?

Debit Cards: America has become mostly a cashless society. People use their bank cards as debit cards (also called check cards), credit cards and mobile payments/ digital wallets to make payments. After opening an account, you should receive a card which can be used as a debit card. When you make payments while shopping and pay with card, the debit card will automatically pull money out of your checking account. Debit cards usually have no associated fees when you use them while credit cards charge interest by borrowing money for payments. When you use debit cards at some stores such as grocery stores, you may be able to withdraw cash at the same time. Banks may offer you credit cards when you open an account so make sure you understand the difference in using credit or debit cards.

Credit Cards: Using a credit card is one of the most efficient ways of purchasing items and tracking expenses. 
Applying for a credit card that requires a deposit is often the only option for most international students during their first few months in the US. Although this will limit the amount you are able to charge (equal to the amount of your deposit), if you use the card wisely and always pay on time for a certain amount of time (for example, six months) the company will often remove the deposit requirement and increase your credit line. 
Some international students have recommended submitting as many credit card applications as possible until you find a company that will work with you to establish credit. This may take a while and involve a significant amount of effort, but many international students report that this is a necessary step in establish a US credit history which is very useful for future big ticket purchases such as vehicle or home ownership.
**The U.S. Federal Trade Commission provides consumers helpful information about choosing and using credit cards. You will need a U.S. Social Security Number to apply for a credit card.

Is there anything I should know about overseas money transfers?

The easiest way to transfer money overseas is with third-party transfer services such as TransferWise which requires an account in each country.

Traditional banks in Charlottesville will accept overseas transfers of money. However, most banks will offer this service only to customers who have established accounts with them. You may want to keep this in mind when opening a bank account if you expect to receive regular overseas transfers throughout your time at Darden. Be aware that the transfer process can sometimes be long and complicated. Also, fees on transfers are often quite substantial, so be sure that the amount you are transferring is enough to make the accompanying fee worthwhile.

If I am an international student, is there anything particular that I need to know about registering for healthcare?

As an international student, you can learn about what it means to obtain comparable coverage, if you choose not to pursue the United Student Health Plan.

All international students are required to maintain adequate health insurance for their spouse and all dependents throughout their presence in the U.S., while affiliated with UVA.

What is the International Student Office (ISO) at UVA and what resources does it offer?

The International Studies Office (ISO) will be one of the most important resources for international students and their partners/ families. In addition to hosting a long list of visa-related forms and forms relevant for incoming international students, the resources section includes a number of helpful internal resources.

If Your Partner Would Like to Register for English Classes:

The UVA Center for American English and Language and Culture offers English classes for students and members of the larger Charlottesville community.

The PVCC Adult Learning Center offers ESL Classes. There is a free conversational group on Fridays. You can contact [email protected], +1-434-961-5499.

Literacy for All is a local organization that offers free, one-on one English and Citizenship Tutoring for Adults. 
The Jefferson Madison Regional Library offers two conversational practice groups each week. If you are interested, please email [email protected].

Amigo Mercado Latino

Super Amanecer

Medina Market  - this location also serves halal meat and groceries**

Grand Market – this location also serves halal meat and groceries**

Asian Market

Food of All Nations 

C’Ville Oriental

Express Grocery Store – This is an Indian/Nepali/SouthAsian Grocery Store