General Information

 

American Adjustment

. . . . . . What’s Happening to me?  

Adjustment to a New Culture

People become products of their own cultures and environments, having learned the values, attitudes, customs, languages, and other aspects of the culture that surrounded them.  It is a challenging, stimulating, and sometimes difficult process to leave one’s culture and go to live in another country.  You are separated from the people and circumstances that define your role in society when you enter a new culture and this may result, in varying degrees, in a loss of identity.  In a new environment, you must learn to adjust to many new and different things all at the same time.  Living abroad can be a very exciting experience, but it also requires much effort, patience, and perseverance. 

The Adjustment Cycle:

People who enter a new culture almost inevitably suffer from a certain level of disorientation.  Cultural adjustment is the process that people go through when they go to another culture.  The cycle of emotions that people experience varies somewhat with each individual; however, there is a set of stages that most people tend to experience. You may find that one stage is more pronounced than another, or that you seem not to enter a particular stage at all.  This information may be helpful in understanding your reactions to living in the United States.  

 
STAGE 1

Stage 1 is characterized by a high level of excitement and perhaps some anxiety.  In this stage of initial euphoria, everything is new and students are busy with the initial tasks of settling into the culture.  At this point, they are most likely to notice similarities and to assume that people everywhere are basically alike.  This stage can last from a few weeks to several months, but it inevitably ends.  

STAGE 2

Soon after arrival, it becomes apparent that many aspects of living in the United States differ from your own culture. The differences in the educational system, food, dress, language, friendships, values, customs, transportation, climate, etc., start to become noticeable, and people react to the situation in different ways.  These reactions, in the irritability stage, are referred to as culture shock.  Culture shock can be characterized by feelings of frustration, irritation, exhaustion, and disappointment at the difficulty in learning so many new things all at once.  Since the new environment is the cause of the discomfort, some hostility toward Americans, the univer-sity, and the U.S. may be expressed at this time.  It is common for international students to turn to each other in this stage in order to express their negative feelings.  However, as they develop a deeper understanding of the culture, the students gradually adjust.  

STAGE 3

The gradual adjustment stage is characterized by a sense of greater comfort in the new culture. Students adapt to the educational system, make a few friends, become involved in areas of interest, and establish a routine which allows them to function fairly well in the U.S. There will always be aspects of the culture that they do not like or choose not to adopt, but there are other aspects they enjoy and integrate into their lives. When students begin to make adjustments, they usually stay at this stage until it is time to return to their own culture.  

STAGE 4

As students near the completion of their studies, they often feel excited and anxious about returning home. Readjustment seems a strange concept to many international students, because they think they are going home to what is comfortable and familiar.  However, by adjusting to the U.S. culture, they have changed in ways that may not be apparent until they return home.  Depending on how long they have been gone, the situation at home may have changed a great deal as well.  As you prepare to go home, the adjustment cycle begins again, and will most likely be characterized by the stages of initial euphoria, irritability, and gradual adjustment.  Resolution involves somehow internalizing the experience gained in living in another culture and moving forward with life and career.

Cross-Cultural Adjustment

As you go through the adjustment cycle, your experience may differ from the described stages.  It is very common to have a variety of high and low points during your stay in the U.S. and people have different reactions to living abroad depending on their background, experience, and personality.  It is helpful to ask yourself the following questions as you encounter confus-ing situations:

  •  How is this accomplished in this country?
  • Did the person I’m talking to understand what I said and what I meant?
  • What does this mean here?
  • Does this mean the same thing here as it does in my culture?

By asking such questions, you will increase your understanding of the culture and develop a pattern of adapting to life in the U.S. Students often wonder how far they must go in their adaptation.  There are two extreme responses to a new culture.  At the one end is the person who refuses to make any adjustments.  This person is probably unwilling to try new foods, to learn the language, and to change daily habits and will find it difficult to function in the culture and focus on returning home as soon as possible.  On the other end, the person who completely assimilates becomes so Americanized that one would not know they were not born here.  Almost everyone eventually finds a balance between these two extremes.  You will probably accept some things about this country and reject others.  There is no obligation to take on any U.S. habit or to change personal customs that you do not wish to.  The following are suggestions for easing adjustment:

  •  Learn and observe listen carefully and watch reactions.
  •  Ask questions - don’t be afraid to ask.
  •  Try not to evaluate or judge - by comparing and labeling things as good or bad you may be misinterpreting the information.
  •  Try to empathize   put yourself in the other person’s place and try to see the situation from the other person’s perspective.
  •  Show openness and curiosity.
  •  Recognize anxiety and frustration - situations you might have treated lightly in your culture may have a greater impact on you here.  Sometimes talking to someone who has experienced culture shock can help, such as another international student or an International Student Advisor.
  •  Become involved - the more you put into the experience, the more you will gain from it. You should make an effort to meet people, form friendships, and get involved in activities.
  •  Maintain a sense of humor

Driver's License

Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)

Address:

305 Galletti Drive
Reno, NV  89512

Directions:

Go down N. Virginia and turn left onto E. 4th Street.  Follow E. 4th Street until it intersects with Galletti Drive.  Look for signs directing you to the DMV.  Turn right onto Galletti Drive.  The Department of Motor Vehicles and Public Safety will be on the right hand side approximately 1 kilometer.   (Bus 11 from CitiCenter can drop you off about 2 blocks away near the corner of 4th/Prater and Galletti Streets).

Hours of Operation:

8-5 Monday-Friday
8-4 Saturday
Closed Sunday

Phone:

775-684-4368

Website:

http://nevadadmv.state.nv.us/index.htm

Driver's Handbooks

OISS does not have copies of the driver's handbook needed for the written test.  You can pick up a free paper copy at the local DMV or you can get a free copy online
Online Driver's Handbook
(1.82 MB, Adobe Acrobat Reader required, approximately 72 pages to print)

What you must bring with you to the DMV:

  • You MUST present a letter from the Office of International Students and Scholars regarding your status as a full time student.  Please fill out and submit the Driver's License request form available at OISS. Processing takes 2 working business days.
  • Your passport
  • Visa document
  • I-94 card
  • I-20 or DS-2019
  • Previous licenses or ID’s.

How often can the driver’s license be renewed?

The driver’s license must be renewed every year.  You will need to bring a new letter from the Office of International Students and Scholars regarding your continued status as a full time student in good academic standing.  You will need to go to the DMV in person to renew your driver’s license, but you will not need to take the written and driving tests again.
You cannot renew your diriver's license on-line.

Can I make an appointment for the written and driving test?

No, you must go to the DMV in person.  You can view or download the driver's handbook on-line or you can go to the DMV to get a copy.   The written test is given on a “first come, first serve” basis.  Once you have completed the written exam, they will schedule you for a driving test. 

How much does it cost?

It costs $20.25 to obtain a driver’s license.  The cost for a Nevada identification (ID) card is $10.  You may pay by cash, check, or credit card.

Can dependents of international students and scholars get a driver’s license or an identification card?

Yes, they MUST bring a letter from OISS and their passport.
They should bring:  visa document, I-94 card, previous driver’s license or other ID.  They can receive a driver’s license or ID with a social security number;  the DMV would use the number from the passport.

For more information about car registration and other information about getting around Reno, please visit the DMV website.

 


Grants and Scholarships

Undergraduates Graduates Financial Aid Loans

Undergraduate Students

International Student Award

This is a partial scholarship that pays for a portion of the out-of-state tuition (non-resident tuition) for the academic year for which the award is granted.  This is only for full-time, UNR, undergraduate students using F-1 or J-1 visa status.  Students must be both full-time, UNR students during the semester prior to and during the semester of the grant-in-aid award.  Applications for the upcoming Fall semester are due May 15th.
Additional Information
Application Form for International Student Award

Kayoko Okumoto Scholarship

This is a partial scholarship that pays for a portion of the out-of-state tuition (non-resident tuition) for the academic year for which the award is granted. This is only for full-time, UNR, undergraduate students using F-1 or J-1 visa status who are also majoring in Business or History. Preference is also given to students from Japan.  Students must be both full-time, UNR students during the semester prior to and during the semester of the award.  Applications for the upcoming Fall semester are due May 15th. 
Additional Information
Application Form

Wilter Ocampo Bolivian Scholarship

This is a partial scholarship that pays for a portion of the out-of-state tuition (non-resident tuition) for the academic year for which the award is granted.  This is only for full-time, UNR, undergraduate or graduate Bolivian students using F-1 or J-1 visa status. Applications for the upcoming Fall semester are due May 15th. 
Additional Information
Application Form

Graduate Students

Teaching or Research Assistantships

Graduate students with a record of outstanding academic achievement may be appointed as teaching or research assistants in the department in which they plan to study. These opportunities are limited and usually are available only to students upon admission or who have been enrolled at University of Nevada, Reno after one year or more.  Students may be considered for waivers of non-resident tuition and fees.

Wilter Ocampo Bolivian Scholarship

See information above. Deadline May 15th. 
Additional Information
Application Form

Financial Aid

Grants, Scholarships and Loan Programs from Other Organizations

FinAid http://www.finaid.org
FinAid was established in the fall of 1994 as a public service. This award-winning site has grown into the most comprehensive annotated collection of information about student financial aid on the web.

EduPass http://www.edupass.org
EduPass provides information for international students who are thinking about pursuing an undergraduate, graduate, or professional education in the United States. It also contains material of interest to international students who are already in the United States.

Institute of International Education http://www.iie.org
Study America : Study America is a service for qualified students wishing to study in the US at the undergarduate or graduate level who are unable to afford such study without financial assistance. Through Study America, students gain the help needed to locate and gain admission into the program of study most suited to their academic and professional goals as well as their financial reality.

Founded in 1919, the Institute of International Education is America's most experienced educational exchange agency.

IIE maintains offices in many overseas locations and works closely with Fulbright Commissions, educational advising centers and educational foundations worldwide.

Currently being updated

Loans

Currently being updated

Health Care

Immunization | Health & Medical Care | Students (F-1)
Student Health Center | Health Insurance | Dental & Vision Care
Planned Parenthood | AIDS | Alcohol & Drugs | SARS

Immunizations
If you were born in 1957 or later, you must present documentation of immunization for the following before you can enroll in academic classes at the university:

  •  Two doses for measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) 
  • An immunization within the last 10 years for diptheria/tetanus
  • A turburculosis (TB) skin test and follow-up check

Note:  OISS highly recommends that international students receive a turburculosis (TB) test prior to coming to the United States.  Bring the results with you translated into English for the Student Health Center.  The TB skin test is a very sensitive test and occassionally, the student will get a false positive result.  If an international student has an initial positive TB test once they are in Reno, they will not be allowed to register for classes, and follow-up x-ray testing  may cost the student over $100, which must be paid before class registration. 

International students must go to the Student Health Center (784-6598)  after their OISS check-in and before class registration.  The Student Health Center is located in the Redfield Building on the north side of campus. (The easiest way to get there is to take the free university shuttle bus to the North Shuttle Stop).  Students may have to pay a small fee if they require any immunizations.  In addition, these immunizations may be obtained from the Washoe County Health Department (328-2400), located at 1001 East 9th Street. 

Health and Medical Care
Unlike most countries, the United States has no national health care program.  Consequently, medical costs are extremely high.  It is extremely important that students and scholars, as well as their dependents, be adequately covered by a health insurance plan.  At the University of Nevada, Reno, international students are required to pay the university Student Health Center fee and purchase the “Student Health Insurance Plan.” 

Students (F-1 Visas)
It is UNR policy that international students have health insurance coverage with appropriate repatriation and medical evacuation provisions.  For the fall semester insurance coverage normally begins about August 23 and ends about January 17 of the following year.  Spring/summer coverage begins about January 17 and ends August 28.  The exact dates may change every year.   If students are arriving early for their first semester at UNR, they may want to use travel insurance until their health insurance coverage begins.  For more information about health insurance, see below. 

Student Health Center
The Student Health Center offers quality health care at a reasonable cost for students of the university.  If you get sick or injured, the staff of professional physicians are ready to help you.  They also offer special health care for men and women, sports medicine for athletes, dermatology services, nutrition and mental health counseling, x-rays, immunization and allergy shots, and many types of lab work.  The Center also provides some prescription medications at cost or reduced rates, orthopedic casting, minor surgery, physical examinations, and many other services. The Health Center Fee is assessed each semester, and you can utilize the Health Center by making an appointment at 784-6598 or by just walking in.  The Student Health Center is located on the University of Nevada, Reno campus across from the Medical School and next to the Family Medical Center on the north end of campus.  Note:  Spouses who are on F-2 or J-2 status who take at least six credits at the university are also eligible for the Student Health Insurance plans. 

Health Insurance

Your health, and health insurance, are very important issues. If you are an F-1 student or a J-1 student or scholar, health insurance is required.

F-1 and J-1 students please find information below about the insurance you can buy through the University if your sponsor does not support you with health insurance. It is very important to know what your benefits are, your rights, etc., regardless of what type of insurance you have. Please do not wait until you are very sick to try to figure out these complicated issues. If you have any questions, please use the references below, or make an appointment with an advisor at OISS.
Please call 784-6874 Monday thru Friday 8 am to 5 pm for an appointment.

You can find more information about the university student health insurance at: http://www.unr.edu/shc/

FOR NEW AND CONTINUING STUDENTS (AND SCHOLARS WHO HAVE BOUGHT INSURANCE THROUGH THE UNIVERSITY STUDENT HEALTH INSURANCE)

1) The Insurance Carrier is Accordia Somerton

2) The New Insurance Cards (plastic) should be sent to you at your home address by early October; your home address information will be provided by the Office of Admissions and Records, so please make sure they have your current address!

3) A temporary card can be printed out from the insurance website: www.somerton-ins.com

4) You can now view insurance information and ask questions of the insurance carrier via the web: www.somerton-ins.com

5) Your 1st point of reference should always be the Student Health Center at 784-6598

If you go to the insurance company's preferred hospital or  “preferred provider organization” (PPO),  you will be billed a $300 deductible per year (ouside of the Student Health Center) and 20% of the bill thereafter with the insurance paying 80% (depending on the type of care).  At present, the closest PPO hospital to the university is Renown Medical Center.  If you do not go to the PPO, the insurance will pay 60% (after the deductible) of “usual and reasonable expenses.” NOTE:  Saint Mary's Hospital, across the freeway from the university, is not a PPO.

Please read the insurance brochure and Master Policy very carefully to better understand the requirements and any changes to the information above.

Discount Dental & Vision Care
 Your health insurance plan includes a discount dental and vision plan. You can locate dental and vision providers by calling 1-888-238-4825 for dental providers and 1-800-800-EYES(3937) for vision providers.
Truckee Meadows Community College, Dental Hygience Program
Includes routine examinations, x-rays, and teeth cleaning. Call 673-8247 for an appointment.  Located at the main campus on Dandini Blvd. (Bus Route 15 from Citicenter, Last bus stop), Red Mountain Bldg. (First Building on the Right), 4th Floor, Room 415.
For a TMCC area maps and building maps, click here.

Planned Parenthood of Northern Nevada (Birth Control)
Planned Parenthood provides information and confidential counseling on birth control, abortion referral, and pregnancy tests.  The closest office is located at 455 West 5th St. (688-5555) and the other office is located at 4385 Neil Road, Suite 105 (829-2211). 

AIDS
People today are worried about getting AIDS. You can’t just “catch” AIDS like a cold or flu, because it is a different type of virus.  The AIDS virus is transmitted through sexual intercourse, the sharing of drug needles, or to babies before or during birth.  If you would like to know more about AIDS or whether you should consider taking a blood test, talk to your doctor.  Informational brochures are available at the Student Health Center.  In addition, you can get helpful, confidential information from the National AIDS Information line, 1-800-342-2437. 

Drinking Alcohol And Doing Drugs
Confidential information and counseling services about alcohol and other drugs are available to students of the university from the Counseling Center.  The program includes prevention, crisis intervention, assessment and evaluation as well as individual and group counseling.  For more information, contact the Counseling Center at 206A Thompson Student Services Center, 784-4648.

SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome)
Please refer to our page on SARS to protect yourself against SARS and what to do if you suspect you may have developed the SARS virus.

Housing at the University of Nevada, Reno

The Office of International Students and Scholars does not endorse any dwellings listed here.

Motels/Hotels | Living On-Campus | Apartment Lists | Residential Life


Many international students and scholars do not have housing before arriving in Reno and therefore must arrange for temporary housing until permanent housing can be found. Some international students and scholars make arrangements with a friend or contact the club of their nationality on campus to arrange accomodations for one or two nights.

We advise arranging temporary housing for a while as it often takes from several days to two weeks to find accommodation. Students can choose to live on-campus or off-campus. If you choose to live off-campus, rental rates are approximately $300 per month if you share an apartment with one other person. An individual apartment can cost from $400-$600 per month. OISS provides a list of possible apartment rentals in the University area. There are also numerous advertisements posted around campus announcing "Roommate needed", "Room for rent" and "House for rent", etc. Other sources which advertise apartment availability are: the Sagebrush (campus-wide newspaper), the Reno-Gazette Journal, and the Reno Apartment Guide. 

Motels/Hotels

If you need to make a reservation with a hotel/motel for a few nights , we can recommend a few places to stay:

**Days Inn**
                701 East 7th Street, Reno, NV 89512 
                (775) 786-4070 
Internet Web-Site:  http://www.the.daysinn.com
Estimated Price for Late August:  $66+tax  and January: $55+tax(Prices may vary each day) 
The Days Inn is a budget motel that is about a 12 minute walk from the university.  A Denny's coffee shop is about 1 block from the motel. 

**Miner's Inn**
                1651 North Virginia Street, Reno, NV  89503 
                (775) 329-3464 
Internet Web-Site:  http://www.super8.com
Estimated Price for Late August:  $65+tax and January: $44+tax (Prices may vary each day) 
The Miner's Inn is a small motel, across the street from the university.  A small market and a 7-11 convenience store is nearby. 

For a list of other motels and hotels in Reno with Internet, on-line reservations, click here.  In general, motels and hotels with an address zip code of 89501, 89503, and 89512 are within a 20 minute walk from the university.

Living On-Campus (Dormitories)

Living ON-CAMPUS affords a variety of advantages such as proximity to the university, opportunities to meet people, access to computer labs, television lounges, and options for a variety of living situations. Living on-campus can be especially convenient for international students as it relieves much of the stress of looking for housing, commuting to the university, and preparing meals. There are seven residence halls which provide housing for single students on campus and there is also a family housing complex near campus.

Residential Life, Housing , and Food Service
Mail Stop 060/Juniper Hall
Reno, NV 89557
Telephone: (775) 784-1113
Fax: (775) 784-1149
E-mail:  housing@unr.edu

Note:   We highly recommend that you contact the Residential Life Office at the earliest opportunity to assure you get a room in the dormitories.
 

Housing/Apartment List

Please be aware that prices may have gone up since they were last verified – January 20, 2005.  The following apartments are commonly used by some international students. 
 

College Couryard Apartments
1150 Seminary Avenue
Reno, NV  89503
(775) 786-1150
Web:  http://www.collegecourtyard.com

    Rooms:
    4 bedroom/2 bath apt.
    $405 for apt with large bedrooms
    $415 for apt with smaller bedrooms
    Deposit:
    $250, $100 is non-refundable
    Lease:  Only one year leases available from the beginning of Fall semester, August 23 to August 15 of the following year.
    Features:

    • Furnished
    • Underground parking
    • DSL

College Terrace Apartments
1155 N. Sierra St. and 155 College Court 
Reno, NV 89503 
(775) 324-1880

Office Hours:  Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm
 

Rooms:
4 Bedroom apt shared housing. 2 bathrooms - $405/mo/person – old building (Phase I).  $410/mo/person – new building (Phase II)
Deposit:
$300 deposit refundable according to cleanliness: $150 is non-refundable; of the apartment.
Lease:
12- month leases and 6 month leases starting in January
Features:

    • Furnished
    • Laundry facilities
    • Microwave
    • No pets allowed
    • No smoking indoors
    • Secured underground parking
    • Security gates
    • Gas heating and gas stove
    • Air conditioning

El Chaparral Apartments
2153 Sutro St.
Reno, NV  89512
(775) 348-8535

    Rooms:
    1 bed/1 bath $550 /month 
    2 bed/1 bath $650 /month 
    Deposit:
    $350 refundable according to cleanliness of apartment.
    Lease:
    Month to month lease. Must give 30 days notice before moving out to get deposit back.
    Features:

    • Unfurnished

Manzanita Manor Apartments
1133 Buena Vista Ave.
Reno, NV  89503
(775) 338-4956 or 324-4646

Rooms:
Studio apt. - $395/mo. 
Deposit:
$300, $225 is refundable 
Lease:
6 or 9 month leases
Features:

  • Furnished with desk and futon
  • Laundry facilities, 8am - 8 pm
  • Covered parking spaces
  • Central heating and air conditioning
  • Share kitchen with four other tenants

 

Nevada Hills Apartments

1050 Nevada St. 
Reno, NV 89503 
(775)323-2038

Rooms:
1 Bedroom - $525/mo. 
2 Bedroom - $700/mo.
Deposit:
$500 (1 bedroom)/$600 ( 2 bedroom) - refundable according to cleanliness of department
Lease:
Month to month lease. Must give 30 days advance notice to vacate.  
Features:

  • Unfurnished
  • Laundry facilities
  • In-house cat allowed; no dogs

North Virginian Apartments
1617 North Virginia St. 
Reno, NV 89503 
(775)786-3734 

Rooms:
Studio apt. for 1 person - $405/mo. 
Deposit:
$200 security deposit; $70 non-refundable 
Lease:
Month to month lease. Must give 30 days advance notice before moving out to get deposit back. 
Features:

    • Electric heating controlled by thermostat in kitchen
    • Fully furnished with couch/bed
    • Tenants share 1 kitchen
    • Laundry facilities
    • No pets
    • Utilities included in rent; phone and cable not included
    • Single occupancy

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Tulsa Apartments

3970 Covington Ct. 
Reno, NV 89503 
(775) 786-0511
Fax:  (775) 786-6118
Office Hours:  Mon-Fri 8:30am - 5:30 pm, Sat. 9am- 5 pm 

Rooms:
Studio apt. - $495/mo. 
1 Bedroom flat - $575/mo. 
1 Bedroom townhouse - $600/mo. 
2 Bedroom flat - $650/mo.
2 Bedroom apt., 1.5 bath - $675-695/mo. 
3 Bedroom apt. - $875/mo.
3 Bedroom apt., 2.5 bath -  $995/mo.
Deposit:
$250-400 deposit, refundable according to cleanliness of department
Lease:
Month to month lease 
Features:

 
    • Gas Heating
    • Unfurnished except for kitchen and drapes Laundry facilities
    • Small pets no more than 25 lbs with $200 nonrefundable deposit for dogs $100 nonrefundable
    • Apartment pays for water + garbage; tenant pays gas + electricity

Villager Apartments
1500 Valley Road 
Reno, NV 89512 
(775)786-1384 

Rooms:
Studio apts. for 1 person - $385/mo. 
Deposit:
$200 deposit; $70 is non-refundable. 
Lease:
Month to month lease with 30 days advance notice to vacate

Features:

    • Furnished
    • Central heating and air-conditioning
    • Units share 1 kitchen
    • Laundry facilities
    • No pets
    • Utilities included, except for phone and cable

Westwood Apartments
401 College Dr. 
Reno, NV 89503 
(775)786-5420 

Rooms:
1 Bedroom apt. - $585/mo. 
2 Bedroom apt. downstairs - $745/mo. 
2 Bedroom apt. upstairs - $765/mo. 
Deposit:
1 Bedroom apt. -$225 deposit; $200 is refundable according to cleanliness of department
2 Bedroom apt. - $275 deposit; $250 is refundable according to cleanliness of department
Lease:
6 month lease with 30 days advance notice to vacate
Features:

    • Upstairs 2 bedroom units have fireplace
    • Unfurnished - has refrigerator, stove, and dishwasher
    • No pets
    • Gas heating and central air-conditioning paid by tenants
    • partment pays for water and garbage
    • Laundry facilities
    • Swimming pool
    • Covered parking space per apartment

Westwood Sierra Apartments
1555 North Sierra St. 
Reno, NV 89503 
(775) 786-2479 
Contact person: Peggy 

Rooms:
1 Bedroom apt. - $580/mo. 
2 Bedroom apt. downstairs - $710/mo. 
2 Bedroom apt. upstairs - $740/mo. 
2 Bedroom apt. upstairs, south view - $765/mo. 
Deposit:
1 Bedroom apts. - $450 security deposit; $225 non-refundable cleaning deposit 
2 Bedroom apts. (downstairs and upstairs) - $500 security deposit; $250 non-refundable cleaning deposit 
Lease:
9 month lease only with 30 days advance notice to vacate
Features:


Wolf Run Village

467 Beverly 
Reno NV  89503 
(775) 329-4960;  Fax: (775) 329-4902

Rooms:
5 bedroom/ bathroom townhouse (Manager will match you with other students as necessary) 
Each bedroom has private bathroom, shares full kitchen and washer/dryer (not coin operated!) 
$395/room downstairs 
$415/room upstairs 
$430/room with bathtub (all other rooms have showers) 
Rent includes water, sewer, garbage; gas and water is shared by all 5 roommates. 
Deposit:
$250, ($100 non-refundable)+$25 credit check fee 
***The apartment management prefers to have a co-signer or, if an international student, a letter from OISS showing adequate financial documentation will suffice.
Lease:
1 year lease – or if you can find a replacement person, you may get out of the lease. 
Month to month lease; graduate students have $5 discount
Features:

    • Dormitory-style living.
    • Free cable, internet and local phone in room and in shared living room
    • Recreation room with computers available for use
    • Full kitchen includes dishwasher, microwave, and all other amenities
    • Patio out back
    • No Smoking allowed in apartment, but okay on patio
    • No pets
    • Ample parking
    • Unfurnished, except as mentioned above

    For more information on off-housing options, please click on the UNR Residential Life, House, and Food Services housing search.

 

Money Matters

  . . . What About Money?

Banking

One of the first things you should do after arriving in Reno is open an account in a local bank.  There is a Bank of America near the university which offers student accounts and currently has an ATM on campus.  Other major banks in Reno are Wells-Fargo Bank, U.S. Bank,  and Nevada State Bank.  To open an account, you must provide proof of identification (passport, driver’s license, or student ID).  It is not necessary to have a social security card to open an account. The cost and terms of opening and maintaining accounts differ from bank to bank.  Banks may charge for transactions, have a basic monthly fee, offer free checking, or require that you maintain a minimum balance.  A monthly statement of all transactions will be sent to you every month or you may access your statement online if your bank offers online banking.  You must keep an accurate record of your account to make sure you have enough money.  Writing a check without sufficient funds, referred to as “bouncing a check,” will lead to additional financial charges.

What are Savings and Checking Accounts?

Services provided by banks in the U.S. are similar to those in other countries, but the terms used may differ from those with which you may be familiar.  One of the most common points of confusion is the distinction between a savings account and a checking account.  A savings account enables you to save money and accumulate interest on your savings account balance.  Different banks pay different rates of interest and require different terms and conditions in order to receive interest.  While it is easy to transfer money from a savings account to a checking account or vice versa, you cannot write checks for payment from a savings account.

A checking account allows the convenience of paying for goods and services without having to carry cash with you. Checks are most often used for the payment of monthly bills (telephone, rent, university bills, etc.).  Most area stores and establishments accept checks for purchases; however, many require a driver’s license in order to use the check. Most banks offer a check card which is often a credit card that will deduct funds directly from your checking account balance.   You can apply for the check card at your bank.

Automatic Teller Machines

Automatic Teller Machines (ATM’s) are computerized banking machines available 24 hours a day.  These machines are operated with a special card and a secret access number, and can be used for depositing, transferring, and withdrawing money.  Some banks offer this service for free, others charge $1 or $2 for each transaction.  It’s important to make note of all transactions in your checkbook.  Currently, there is a Bank of America ATM and Wells Fargo ATM at the Jot Travis Student Union (JTSU). A Sierra Nevada Credit Union ATM is located in the Student Services Building.

 
  . . . . Where Should I Shop?
 

General Tips

Many students have remarked on the temptation to buy more than they can afford in the U.S.  You may find that the cost of living in this country is high, especially when you convert the value of U.S. dollars into your own country’s currency.  It is important to manage your budget carefully in deciding what, why, and where to buy.

Americans do not generally bargain over prices except for big purchases like a car or house.  Instead, they shop around to compare prices at different stores until they find the item and quality they want at the lowest price.  Prices vary according to manufacturer, retail store, time of year, and even state and local taxes.

Stores provide bags in which you can place your purchase.  If you put items in your own bag before paying for them, the storeowner will likely think that you are trying to “shoplift” or steal from the store.

Most places of business run periodic sales.  Large chain stores have weekly specials, and smaller establishments have less frequent seasonal sales.  You can achieve savings of as much as 50% on everything from winter coats to frozen foods by watching for advertisements in local newspapers.  Americans enjoy shopping for “bargains” and will often boast of how little they paid for quality items.

Discount stores such as Target, Shopko, K-Mart, or WalMart sell clothing, drugs, cosmetics, photographic equipment, housewares, bedding, appliances, luggage, and furniture at lower prices than department stores or small shops.  Factory outlets, wholesale houses, and thrift stores which sell merchandise directly from the manufacturer, also offer lower prices than other merchants.

With the exception of certain articles of clothing, most unused and all defective items may be returned for a cash refund or exchanged if you have a sales receipt.  Stores post their refund policies; check for time limits on returns, save receipts, and notice which stores post “All Sales are Final”.

A recent phenomenon in the U.S. is the presence of huge warehouse stores where items can be purchased in bulk for wholesale prices. In Reno, Costco is a store where you can purchase items at reduced cost, such as food, clothes, and a variety of household goods.  Be sure to shop critically, however, as not all items are “bargains.”  Utilization of this warehouse is available to those that work for the University of Nevada, Reno.  A yearly membership is $30, and you must show a pay stub or proof of employment at the university.  Costco is located on 2200 Harvard Way.  For more information, call 689-2222.

 
. . . How Can I Save Money?
 

Buying Used Goods
Americans frequently buy second-hand goods.  Thrift shops, flea markets, rummage sales, yard sales, and garage sales are common sources of used furniture, clothing, appliances, and household items.  Many people furnish apartments by buying second-hand furniture. Used goods may be top quality and only slightly used, however, buying used goods can also be somewhat risky.  Always check prices on new items before buying second-hand, and be sure you check out items to ensure that they are in good condition.

You can look in the Reno Gazette-Journal in the classified section for information on yard sales, garage sales, and items that are being sold independently.  Yard sales are most often held on the weekends and it’s best to get an early start on Saturdays if you are trying to catch the best deals.  Look in the telephone directory yellow pages under “Furniture Dealers-Used” for thrift stores and used furniture stores.  

Buying Clothes

You should always try on an article of clothing before purchasing it.  By law, cleaning instructions and fabric content should be printed on the label on each item of clothing.  If purchasing major items such as coats, wool sweaters, etc., it is best to purchase them during the outgoing season; for example, the best deals on winter clothing are in early spring. Malls are areas where many stores are grouped together in one location.  The two largest indoor malls in Reno are Park Lane Mall and Meadowood Mall, both located in the South part of town on Virginia Street.  These have major department stores, a variety of specialty stores, and several eateries as well.  Smaller outdoor malls or centers include:  Franktown Corners, Arlington Gardens, Old Town Mall, Shoppers Square, Smithridge Plaza, and Southwest Pavillion.   Reno's newest outdoor mall, Summit Trail is located at the southernmost part of Virginia Street, right before the exit to Carson City and Virginia City.

Buying Food

Supermarkets are the least expensive stores in which to buy food.  Usually they are part of a chain of stores owned by one company. They offer fresh, frozen, and processed foods and a wide variety of household items.  Most supermarkets accept personal checks with the proper ID and some allow you to use debit or credit cards.  Cash is always accepted.  In Reno, the major supermarkets are Raley’s, Safeway, Albertson’s, Scolaris, and Winco (Cub) Foods. Unfortunately, there are no major supermarkets within easy walking distance to the university. Each week, most stores advertise specials - food items reduced in price for that week.  Unlike people in some countries who are in the habit of going to the market daily, Americans tend to shop infrequently and “stock up,” especially on sale items.

Ethnic/Specialty Groceries

There are several ethnic groceries in town where one can find specialty items not easily found in supermarkets. The following are just a few of them. OISS does not endorse any of the following.

Asian Market
2152 Prater Way, Sparks
359-3636
Wide variety of food items, including fresh produce.

International Market
95 East Grove
825-5258Has a variety of items, but specializes in oriental products.

 
Yim's Asian Supermarket
1210 Rock Blvd, Sparks
356-8949

Specializes in Korean and oriental foods and gifts.

Personal Issues

  . . . What If I Need To Talk To Someone About My Personal Problems?
 

Personal Counseling

Problems or difficulties involving academic work, personal relationships, stress, unhappiness, an individual’s view of him or herself etc., are viewed and treated differently in different cultures.  If you experienced difficulties when you were living in your home country, perhaps you turned to your family or close personal friends for help and advice.  During your stay in the U.S., however, you may be apart from all family and close friends or you may only have one or two family members with you.  When problems arise, you may feel the need to find substitute sources of emotional support.

In the U.S., many people do not live near their families, and it is not always the custom for Americans to be raised to depend on their families to solve problems.  In many instances, Americans will choose to talk with professionals or trained volunteers about problems.  The services listed in this section are staffed by persons trained to be sympathetic and objective listeners.  A counselor can help you to determine what the difficulty is, empathize with your situation, help you see options that you might not have seen, and help you resolve a difficulty.  Any conversation you have with a counselor will be treated as confidential.  Your stay in the U.S. will be much more enjoyable if you can find substitutes for the types of support provided by your family or close friends at home.  Counseling is one option for dealing with difficulties that arise.

Counseling Center

The Counseling Center is the primary counseling facility on campus.  It is staffed by professionally trained counselors and counseling psychologists whose services are available free to all students.  Personal, social, or career issues may interfere with your academic achievement or personal functioning and counseling can help you develop self understanding, use your potential more effectively, and plan your goals realistically.  Appointments for counseling services may be made in person or by telephone.  They are located in Room 206, Thompson Student Services Center at 784-4648.  Dr. Shernaaz Webster usually works with OISS on the problems of international students.

Suicide Prevention and Crisis Call Center

This organization provides phone counseling in crisis situa-tions, such as rape, suicide prevention, domestic violence, and child abuse.  They provide information and referral and are there to talk and to listen.  You can reach the Crisis Call Center at 323-6111.

Department of Residential Life

Every Residence Hall is staffed with live-in Residence Hall Directors and Resident Advisors who have received training and can assist with many problems through counseling, information, and referral services provided by Residential Life department.

Academic Advising /Career Development

The Academic Advising and Career Development center offers counseling on a variety of academic and career issues. For more information, refer to the “Academic Services” section.

For other key student services provided by UNR, click here
Or visit or Support Services page for more information

Safety and Security

  . . . . Am I Safe In America?

Safety and Security

When entering a new culture, it is extremely important to be informed about the laws and rules governing the society and the campus community.  Crime occurs to a certain degree in every culture.  Crime prevention, or being aware of the risks and taking precautions, is important.  What is “common sense” in regards to safety is somewhat universal, but may also vary from culture to culture.  The following is a basic list of laws and regulations that you should be aware of.

Laws:

  •  The American Bill of Rights mandates that all residents of the U.S. are equal under the law; racism and sexism are not acceptable.
  • Drinking:
    1. Persons under the age of 21 who are drunk could be arrested.
    2. Open containers of alcohol are not permitted in public areas
    3. It is a serious crime to drive while intoxicated. In Nevada, you could be fined and/or placed in jail.
  • It is illegal for someone under 21 years of age to gamble (this includes slot machines!)
  • It is against the law to be in possession of controlled substances/drugs.  If you are found to have, for example, cocaine or crack, you could be convicted of a felony and it could result in a jail term.
  • It is the law that seatbelts must be worn by the driver and all passengers at all times when in a car.  Speed limits are there for your safety and are the law.  Do not exceed the posted speed for a designated area.
  • Bicycle riders must follow the same traffic laws as automobile drivers.
  • Pedestrians have the right of way when crossing the street.  If you are driving and someone has stepped into a crosswalk, you must stop whether the light is green or not.
  • Sexual Harassment, whether in the form of verbal comments or jokes or conduct that creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive working or learning environment is not acceptable and can be addressed through the university system.
Suggestions:
  • Keep yourself safe from theft by keeping your doors locked when you are away from your room and/or car.
  • Signatures are legally binding.  Read everything completely before signing anything.
  • You will need identification for a variety of reasons.  You should carry a form of identification with you at all times.  Also, be sure to know your address, telephone number, social security number(if applicable), and your mother’s maiden name by memory so you can get assistance when you need it.
  • When walking outside at night, take a friend.  Take special precautions when traveling to downtown Reno, and be aware that the campus is located near an area that has a lot of visitors and transients.  For your safety, you can use the campus Escort Service if you are walking across campus at night by calling 742-6808 ahead of time.
  • The University has 26 specific regulations for students to follow, which are all listed in the UNR Student Handbook and UNR General Catalog.  Please become knowledgeable about all of them.
  • In an emergency, dial 911 from any phone.  This will connect you to the police, and they will be able to respond whether it is a medical emergency, crime situation, or fire.

Police Services

The university police enforce all federal, state, and local laws and ordinances on university property and a portion of adjacent streets. They investigate traffic accidents, conduct criminal investigations, and maintain 24-hour patrol. The university police can also provide an escort service, help students who have locked keys in their car, and take crime reports. Police Department numbers are as follows:

Regular Hours (Monday-Friday, 8am-4pm): 784-4013
Non-Emergency (Crime report, escort service): 334-2121
Emergencies: 911

Tax Information for International Students and Scholars

In the U.S. you are required to file a return even if you do not owe any taxes.
The deadline to file taxes for the calendar year 2006 is April 17, 2007.

Students or self-funded visiting scholars who did not work in 2006 need to file Form 8843 Statement for exempt individuals only. Filing a complete tax return is not required. Form 8843 is available at OISS or can be prepared using CINTAX software.

Please note that the following information should be regarded as a general guideline to taxes only. OISS staff is not trained or licensed to answer questions regarding individual tax returns.

FILING STATUS
In general international students and scholars are required to file non-resident tax returns if they meet the following conditions:

  1. Students on F and J visas are presumed to be non-residents for tax filing purposes for up to five (5) calendar years (including OPT or academic training).
  2. Scholars on J visas are presumed to be non-residents for tax filing purposes for up to two (2) calendar years.
  3. Scholars on H visas are presumed to be non-residents for tax filing purpose if they have been in the U.S. for less than 183 days in the preceding calendar year (2006).

If you have been in the U.S. in your respective status for longer than the time indicated above, or if you have changed your immigration status, you may have to file a resident tax return. For help determining your tax filing status visit http://www.utexas.edu/international/taxes/ created by the University of Texas at Austin, or request a CINTAX password from OISS and let the software determine your tax filing status. Your tax residency is defined by U.S. tax laws and is used for tax filing purposes only. Your tax residency (i.e. resident alien, non-resident alien, dual status) determines your tax obligations and your tax deductions, credits and exemptions. Your tax residency status and your visa status are two separate issues.

RESOURCES

CINTAX online tax preparation for non-resident taxes (federal taxes) . You must request a password from OISS to access the software. Passwords are available after February 12, 2007. To obtain a password please come to OISS and present your UNR ID. To prepare your taxes you will need your passport, I-20 or DS-2019 or I-797 notice (if you changed your status in the U.S.), W-2 and/or 1042S statement. The 1042S statement is issued by the Controller’s Office to those who received room and board scholarship, or took advantage of tax treaty benefits.

TAX WORKSHOPS offered by the Controller’s Office and OISS. These workshops will provide a brief overview of tax filing procedures and will include a demonstration of CINTAX - the tax software for non-resident aliens. Separate workshops will be provided for students (F-1 and J-1) and scholars (J-1 and H-1B).

Tax workshop for students: Monday, March 5, 2007; 3 pm at JTSU Alumni Room
Tax workshop for faculty/scholars: Thursday, March 8, 2007; 3 pm at JTSU room 244

TAX LAB – for those who need help with the software, or are not sure about taxes, we offer hands-on-assistance using CINTAX in the E.L. Cord lab (across from the Help Desk) in the library. These lab sessions are held on:

Thursday, March 22 between 10 -12 (noon)
Thursday, April 12 between 3-5 pm

TURBOTAX software for those filing resident taxes . The software is available online at http://www.turbotax.com or for purchase at various stores. The price varies from $9.95 and up depending on the complexity of your return.

 Internal Revenue Service: http://www.irs.ustreas.gov or www.irs.gov

  • Download non-resident tax forms: 1040NR, 1040NR-EZ and 8843
  • Download resident tax forms: 1040EZ, 1040A, 1040
  • E-file the resident tax return
  • Ask questions regarding resident taxes: 1-800-829-1040

Local IRS office: 200 S. Virginia St., Reno, NV 89501, ph: 775-824-2218

  • Obtain tax forms and publications
  • Help with completing forms for Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)

Non-resident tax questions: (215) 516-2000; M-F, 6am – 11 pm eastern time

  • Information about non-resident taxes, tax treaties and international tax law
  • This is not a toll-free number!

Tax Treaties: Publication 901

State Taxes : There is no state income tax in Nevada, therefore no need to file the state income tax return (you must still file with the federal government). However, if you worked in another state in 2006, you may be required to file an income tax return for that state.

W-2 Form : To request a replacement of your W-2 form (summary of your earnings at UNR), please contact the Payroll Office (Ross Hall, room 102, ph: 784-6653) or try Employee Self-Service - http://www.unr.edu/hr/ess/.

 

GENERAL INFORMATION FOR NON-RESIDENT TAXES

(reportable and non-reportable income, exemptions, deductions and credits)

Reportable Income

  • Income that is “sourced” in the United States (lawful employment in the U.S.).
  • Scholarships from a U.S. institution for room and board only. Such financial aid is subject to federal income tax withholding at 14% rate unless the payments are exempt from tax under a tax treaty.
  • Stipends, fellowships, graduate assistantships, or any other financial aid which require that the recipient perform services in exchange for financial aid (reported on forms 941 and/or W-2).
  • Income partially or totally exempt from tax under the terms of a tax treaty.
  • Income that is “effectively connected with U.S. trade or business” (any income or interest received from real property located in the United States in a form of rents, profits and royalties, capital gains on securities sold on the U.S. stock market, dividends).

Non-reportable Income

  • Income from foreign sources
  • Scholarships, grants or any other type of financial aid received from sources outside the U.S .
  • Scholarships from a U.S. institution which covered tuition, books & fees only.
  • Interest income which comes from the following sources and is not effectively connected with a U.S. trade or business:
    1. interest from deposits in any U.S. bank, savings and loan association, credit union or insurance company
    2. portfolio interest on investments sold in foreign markets.
      If you are using form 1040NR to report your income then this nontaxable interest income is listed only in response to question L on page 5 of form 1040NR. With the form 1040NR-EZ this nontaxable interest income is not reported anywhere on the form.

Exemptions
General rule : A nonresident alien, whether single or married, may claim only ONE personal exemption for himself/herself, as long as he may not be claimed as a dependent on any other U.S. tax return. The exemption amount for 2006 is $3,300.

Exceptions to general rule:

  • Residents of Canada and Mexico may claim additional exemptions for spouse and dependents if:
  • the spouse had no income
  • the spouse was not the dependent of another U.S. taxpayer

AND

  • dependents otherwise qualify as dependents under the normal rules.

 

  • Residents of South Korea may claim additional exemptions for spouses and children if:
  • they meet the same 3 conditions shown above
  • the spouse and all children claimed must have lived with the taxpayer at some time during the tax year
  • additional deductions for spouse and children must be prorated based on the ratio of the alien’s U.S. income effectively connected with a U.S. trade or business to the alien’s worldwide income from all sources.
  • Additional deductions for spouse and children will be allowed only to the extent of alien’s taxable income

 

  • Residents of India may claim exemptions for spouse and children if:
  • the spouse had no income and cannot be claimed by another taxpayer

AND

  • the children meet all five dependency tests, including the citizenship/residency test (meaning = children are born in the U.S.)

 

In order to claim exemptions for your dependents, they must have either a SSN or ITIN.

 

Deductions

General rule: non-resident aliens can only claim itemized deductions. Itemized deductions usually include state taxes withheld from the student’s salary and reported on W-2. Please note that the State of Nevada does not have a state tax, however if you have worked at another state, the state tax will be reported on W-2 form. If you want to itemize additional expenses, you will need to use form 1040NR.

 

Exception: students from India can claim a standard deduction. The amount of standard deduction for 2006 is $5,150.

 

Credits

  • Education Credits cannot be claimed if the taxpayer is a nonresident alien for any part of the year.
  • Foreign Tax Credit is not available since a foreign source income is not reported.
  • Child Tax Credit may be claimed only if all of the following conditions are met:
  • the child is a US citizen, national or resident alien, and
  • the child is claimed as a dependent on the return, and
  • the child is a son, daughter, adopted child or foster child, and
  • the child was under age 17 at the end of the year

 

  • Earned Income Credit is not available if the taxpayer is a nonresident for any part of the year.

 

In the U.S. you are required to file a return even if you do not owe any taxes.
The deadline to file taxes for the calendar year 2005 is April 15, 2006.

Students or self-funded visiting scholars who did not work in 2005 need to file Form 8843 Statement for exempt individuals only. Filing a complete tax return is not required. Form 8843 is available at OISS or can be prepared using CINTAX software.

Please note that the following information should be regarded as a general guideline to taxes only. OISS staff is not trained or licensed to answer questions regarding individual tax returns.

FILING STATUS

In general international students and scholars are required to file non-resident tax returns if they meet the following conditions:

  1. Students on F and J visas are presumed to be non-residents for tax filing purposes for up to five (5) calendar years (including OPT or academic training).
  2. Scholars on J visas are presumed to be non-residents for tax filing purposes for up to two (2) calendar years.
  3. Scholars on H visas are presumed to be non-residents for tax filing purpose if they have been in the U.S. for less than 183 days in the preceding calendar year (2005).

If you have been in the U.S. in your respective status for longer than the time indicated above, or if you have changed your immigration status, you may have to file a resident tax return. For help determining your tax filing status visit http://www.utexas.edu/international/taxes/ created by the University of Texas at Austin, or request a CINTAX password from OISS and let the software determine your tax filing status. Your tax residency is defined by U.S. tax laws and is used for tax filing purposes only. Your tax residency (i.e. resident alien, non-resident alien, dual status) determines your tax obligations and your tax deductions, credits and exemptions. Your tax residency status and your visa status are two separate issues.

RESOURCES

CINTAX online tax preparation for non-resident taxes (federal taxes) . You must request a password from OISS to access the software. Passwords are available on or after February 22, 2006. To obtain a password please come to OISS and present your UNR ID. To prepare your taxes you will need your passport, I-20 or DS-2019 or I-797 notice (if you changed your status in the U.S.), W-2 and/or 1042S statement. The 1042 statement is issued by the Controller’s Office to those who received room and board scholarship, or took advantage of tax treaty benefits.

TAX WORKSHOPS offered by the Controller’s Office and OISS. These workshops will provide a brief overview of tax filing procedures and will include a demonstration of CINTAX - the tax software for non-resident aliens. Separate workshops will be provided for students (F-1 and J-1) and scholars (J-1 and H-1B).

Tax workshop for students: Monday, February 27, 2006; 3 pm at JTSU Alumni Room
Tax workshop for scholars: Thursday, March 2, 2006; 3 pm at JTSU room 244

TAX LAB – for those who need help with the software, or are not sure about taxes, we offer hands-on-assistance using CINTAX in the E.L. Cord lab (across from the Help Desk) in the library. These lab sessions are held on:

Monday, March 6 between 9 -11 am
Thursday, March 22 between 2 - 4 pm

TURBOTAX software for those filing resident taxes . The software is available online at http://www.turbotax.com or for purchase at various stores. The price varies from $9.95 and up depending on the complexity of your return.

Internal Revenue Service: http://www.irs.ustreas.gov or www.irs.gov

  • Download non-resident tax forms: 1040NR, 1040NR-EZ and 8843
  • Download resident tax forms: 1040EZ, 1040A, 1040
  • E-file the resident tax return
  • Ask questions regarding resident taxes: 1-800-829-1040

Local IRS office: 200 S. Virginia St., Reno, NV 89501, ph: 775-824-2218

  • Obtain tax forms and publications
  • Help with completing forms for Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)

Non-resident tax questions: (215) 516-2000; M-F, 6am – 11 pm eastern time

  • Information about non-resident taxes, tax treaties and international tax law
  • This is not a toll-free number!

Tax Treaties: Publication 901

  • Provides a summary of tax treaty provisions for various countries for students and scholars (teaching and research).
  • Available from OISS or online at http://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p901.pdf

State Taxes : There is no state income tax in Nevada, therefore no need to file the state income tax return (you must still file with the federal government). However, if you worked in another state in 2005, you may be required to file an income tax return for that state.

W-2 Form : To request a replacement of your W-2 form (summary of your earnings at UNR), please contact the Payroll Office (Ross Hall, room 102, ph: 784-6653) or try Employee Self-Service - http://www.unr.edu/hr/ess/.

GENERAL INFORMATION FOR NON-RESIDENT TAXES
(reportable and non-reportable income, exemptions, deductions and credits)

Reportable Income

  • Income that is “sourced” in the United States (lawful employment in the U.S.).
  • Scholarships from a U.S. institution for room and board only. Such financial aid is subject to federal income tax withholding at 14% rate unless the payments are exempt from tax under a tax treaty.
  • Stipends, fellowships, graduate assistantships, or any other financial aid which require that the recipient perform services in exchange for financial aid (reported on forms 941 and/or W-2).
  • Income partially or totally exempt from tax under the terms of a tax treaty.
  • Income that is “effectively connected with U.S. trade or business” (any income or interest received from real property located in the United States in a form of rents, profits and royalties, capital gains on securities sold on the U.S. stock market, dividends).

Non-reportable Income

  • Income from foreign sources
  • Scholarships, grants or any other type of financial aid received from sources outside the U.S .
  • Scholarships from a U.S. institution which covered tuition, books & fees only.
  • Interest income which comes from the following sources and is not effectively connected with a U.S. trade or business:
    1. interest from deposits in any U.S. bank, savings and loan association, credit union or insurance company
    2. portfolio interest on investments sold in foreign markets.
      If you are using form 1040NR to report your income then this nontaxable interest income is listed only in response to question L on page 5 of form 1040NR. With the form 1040NR-EZ this nontaxable interest income is not reported anywhere on the form.

Exemptions

General rule : A nonresident alien, whether single or married, may claim only ONE personal exemption for himself/herself, as long as he may not be claimed as a dependent on any other U.S. tax return. The exemption amount for 2005 is $3,200.

Exceptions to general rule:

  • Residents of Canada and Mexico may claim additional exemptions for spouse and dependents if:
    1. the spouse had no income
    2. the spouse was not the dependent of another U.S. taxpayer
      AND
    3. dependents otherwise qualify as dependents under the normal rules.
  • Residents of South Korea may claim additional exemptions for spouses and children if:
    1. they meet the same 3 conditions shown above
    2. the spouse and all children claimed must have lived with the taxpayer at some time during the tax year
    3. additional deductions for spouse and children must be prorated based on the ratio of the alien’s U.S. income effectively connected with a U.S. trade or business to the alien’s worldwide income from all sources.
    4. Additional deductions for spouse and children will be allowed only to the extent of alien’s taxable income
  • Residents of India may claim exemptions for spouse and children if:
    1. the spouse had no income and cannot be claimed by another taxpayer
      AND
    2. the children meet all five dependency tests, including the citizenship/residency test (meaning = children are born in the U.S.)

In order to claim exemptions for your dependents, they must have either a SSN or ITIN.

Deductions
General rule: non-resident aliens can only claim itemized deductions. Itemized deductions usually include state taxes withheld from the student’s salary and reported on W-2. Please note that the State of Nevada does not have a state tax, however if you have worked at another state, the state tax will be reported on W-2 form. If you want to itemize additional expenses, you will need to use form 1040NR.

Exception: students from India can claim a standard deduction. The amount of standard deduction for 2005 is $5,000.

Credits

  • Education Credits cannot be claimed if the taxpayer is a nonresident alien for any part of the year.
  • Foreign Tax Credit is not available since a foreign source income is not reported.
  • Child Tax Credit may be claimed only if all of the following conditions are met:
    1. the child is a US citizen, national or resident alien, and
    2. the child is claimed as a dependent on the return, and
    3. the child is a son, daughter, adopted child or foster child, and
    4. the child was under age 17 at the end of the yea
  • Earned Income Credit is not available if the taxpayer is a nonresident for any part of the year.

Telephone, Mail Box, and E-Mail Address

Campus Telephone Service

All campus telephone numbers begin with the prefix 784.  When making a phone call from a campus phone to another campus office, you only dial the last four numbers (i.e., the OISS is 784-6874, so you should dial 6874).  In addition, when calling off campus from a campus phone, you must dial 9 first, wait for a dial tone, then call the number.

Home Telephone Service

Whether you live on campus or off, if you’d like telephone service you must contact AT&T by dialing 333-4811 or going to 1450 Vassar St.  Installation fees are about $100, and they also request a minimum deposit.  There are numerous options available for local services, as well as special features like call waiting, call forwarding, three-way calling, etc.  The monthly charges vary depending upon the nature and extent of the services you request.  You will need to purchase your own phone, which is available in nearly every department store, including Target, K-mart, Walmart, etc.

For overseas and long-distance calls which are outside the area served by the local telephone company, you have to use a primary long distance telephone company.  The quality and cost of services differ from company to company and depend on the time and length of the call.  Some companies may provide special calling plans for overseas calls. You are strongly advised to contact the companies and obtain more details.  You might consider asking your friends for advice about which company to choose.  If a particular company offers any special deals, you should obtain the offer in writing before a choice is made.  In the Reno area, there are over several long distance companies from which to choose, but the largest are as follows:

AT&T
MCI/Worldcom
U.S. Sprint

Most parts of the USA and Canada can be called by dialing direct (1-area code-phone number). For overseas calls, dial 011-country code-city code-phone number.  These codes can be obtained from the local telephone book.  Please be aware that placing a call through the operator requires an additional charge.

It is wise to obtain a calling card for times when you may need to make a long distance call while traveling.  We recommend buying calling cards to call home as these are the most economical. You can buy such cards online or at local international grocery stores.   It is also possible to make a collect call, where the person being called will pay for the charges.  This happens to be the most costly, however.

Numbers to Know:

AT&T  333-4811
Emergencies  911
Directory Information  l-(area code) 555-1212 (for the entire United States)

Fascimile Transmission (FAX)

FAX machines are available for personal use for a fee at various locations in the city and on the university campus. Check “Fascimile Transmission Service” in the yellow pages of the telephone directory for businesses providing this service.  There is also a fax machine located in the JTSU outside the bookstore.

Postal Service

The United States Postal Service provides services similar to most other postal services around the world.  Personal mail cannot be delivered to you through campus departments or in the residence halls.  You may rent a U.S. Post Office box at the University Station, a full-service post office located the north end of campus.  The rental rate is approximately $36 for six months.

Computer Services/Electronic Mail

It is possible to obtain a university electronic mail (e-mail) account at no cost with the Campus Computing Services.  This allows you to send messages via computer anywhere in the world to another e-mail account.  You can obtain an e-mail account by going to the Computer Help Desk in Getchell Library.  The Computing Handbook is available free in the bookstore and provides information about campus microcomputer laboratories, network access, and other computing resources.

 

I-9 Employment Eligibility Verification
for International Students/Scholars

Helpful Hints from the Office of International Students and Scholars (OISS)

The purpose of the I-9 is two-fold:  to establish identity and employment eligibility.  In the case of international students and scholars, work authorization can be determined in the following ways:

Utilizing List A

An international student/scholar will usually provide an unexpired foreign passport and I-94 (admission/departure record to establish identity (The I-94 is a small white card that is a little larger than a business card).  To establish employment eligibility, the I-94 should be accompanied by either a current UNR I-20 (students) or current UNR DS-2019 (students/researchers/professors/specialists).  Those students who enter the U.S. with an I-20 are admitted in the F-1 visa class (degree seeking students).  Those students and visiting scholars that enter the U.S. with the DS-2019 are admitted in the J-1 visa class (exchange visitors).

F-1 Students

Those students on a UNR I-20, engaged in a full course of study, are allowed to work on campus up to 20 hours per week (40 hours per week during vacation periods) with any additional USCIS authorization.  Make sure that the I-20 has been issued by the University of Nevada, and is in the student name (i.e., make sure the applicant is not a dependent an F-2 dependent is NOT ever allowed to work in the U.S.).  Also make sure the I-20 has not expired (#5 complete studies no later than <date>.  If the I-20 has expired, please refer the student to the OISS at 784-6874.

If an F-1 student has graduated and is engaged in practical training, he/she should provide an unexpired employment authorization document (EAD card) which is item #7 on list C.  These students may be restricted from certain work categories at UNR (i.e., those students no longer enrolled in courses are not allowed to continue in student positions.)

J-1 Students

J-1 students, like F-1 students are allowed to work on campus 20 hours per week or 40 hours per week during vacation periods.  The student category is indicated in section #4 of the DS-2019.  Please verify that the DS-2019 has been issued by the University of Nevada, Reno (item #2 of DS-2019) and is not expired (see item #3 for program duration).  If the DS-2019 has been issued by an agency other than UNR, the student should provide a letter of work permission from a responsible officer of that agency (examples might include USIA, IIE, AED, etc).

J-1 Researchers/Professors/Specialists

J-1 Researchers/Professors are allowed to work full-time or part-time during the period authorized (item #3 of the DS-2019) in the area specified on the DS-2019 (category and purpose in indicated in section #4).  Please verify that the DS-2019 has been issued by the University of Nevada, Reno.  If not, they should also present a letter or work authorization from the issuing agency.

H-1B Work Visas

For those in the H-1B visa category, the I-94 issued by the USCIS contains information regarding the visa class, validity dates, and petitioner.  H-1B are employer specific, therefore the I-94 should state that the petitioner is the University of Nevada, Reno. Please Note:  If you hire someone that will need to obtain an H-1B or transfer H-1B to the University of Nevada, Reno, please contact OISS at 784-6874.  It generally takes at least two months to procure or transfer an H-1B.