Pre-Arrival Information

Money

It is difficult to exchange currency in the United States. It is recommended that you do not bring a lot of foreign currency money with you. It is best to bring U.S. dollars. The best idea is to carry a combination of cash, traveler s checks, and bank drafts.

You should bring some of your money in cash for your in route and beginning expenses. Try to get some $20 bills. Large bills, such as $100 bills, are not always accepted at stores here. It is suggested that you bring at least 50 one dollar bills. Certain gratuities are U.S. cultural traits. These one dollar bills are handy to use as gratuities for taxi drivers, hotel porters, and restaurant waiters and waitresses.

It is advised that you bring most of your money in the form of traveler s checks. You should get some large denominations, such as $100. Many of your large expenses occur soon after arrival. You may want to bring a bank check issued in U.S. dollars to pay your tuition and fees. If the amount of your check is over or under your actual tuition and fees, you can made adjustments later. If you bring money in the form of a bank check, cashiers check, or money order, please make it payable to the order of Bluegrass Community and Technical College. It is advised that you not bring a check for more than the estimated tuition and fees amount because the college will not be able to pay back the extra amount quickly.

Credit Cards

You can pay for your tuition and fees at Bluegrass Community and Technical College with a Visa or Master Card credit card. You can also use these cards in the bookstore and for most purchases in the U.S. It is very difficult for foreign citizens to open these credit card accounts in the U.S. If you want to use a credit card, bring one with you from your home country. You will probably need to make arrangements with your family to pay the bills for you back in your home country.

Clothing

Everyone has personal preferences when it comes to fashion and clothing. You should check below on climate and weather to decide on what clothes to bring. Students wear casual clothes to school and most activities.

You should not bring a lot of clothes with you from your home country because you can buy things fairly cheaply here compared to most countries. You will have to do your own laundry here and therefore it is best to have clothes that do not need a great deal of special washing or ironing. Wash and wear clothes are the best.

Other Things to Bring

• A traditional national costume or dress from your home country. This will be fun to wear to festivals or special occasions.
• Family photos, small photo albums, or items of sentimental or religious value. These items will help you get over homesickness and will be fun to show to your new friends here.
• Small gifts from your country for friends, roommates, or people you want to express appreciation.
• Any prescription medicine you are prescribed to take. Always carry the doctor s prescription with you when you enter the U.S.

It is recommended that you pack lightly and be prepared to purchase many of your needed items after you arrive, for example, pillows, blankets, cooking and eating supplies.

Health

Before Arriving

It is recommended that you have a complete physical and dental examination before you leave your country. Your doctor should know that you are going to study in the U.S. and be away for all that time. Get copies of your medical records translated into English if your doctor recommends it. If you need dental work, it is recommended that you care for it before coming to the U.S. Most student insurances do not cover dental services. Dental services are very expensive in the U.S.

Medical Insurance

Bluegrass Community and Technical College has a mandatory health insurance policy for international students. This means that you are required to have insurance coverage while you are enrolled here as a student. The current insurance fee is $645 for 12 months paid in two parts (by the semester). The required International student orientation session will offer more information regarding insurance.

Climate and Weather

No matter the season, you'll love Kentucky's mild climate. Summers can be very warm, but cool evenings are not unusual. For spring and fall, it's a good idea to bring a light jacket. In the winter, we get a moderate amount of snow. The wettest seasons are spring and summer, and the driest is the fall.

Average High and Low Temperatures

Annual average precipitation 48 inches, including an average snowfall of 13.7 inches.