NOTE: The information on these pages is provided as a guide to UC San Diego affiliates only, regarding immigration law and UC San Diego policy– not as a general guide to immigration law. If you are affiliated with another insitution, contact your international services office first. In all cases, consult a qualified immigration professional.
Programs, Activities and Events

Internationalize YOUR Experience

JOIN I Club for dynamic cross-cultural exchange!
ENGAGE in dialogue by meeting people from all over the globe.
MENTOR our international newcomers by becoming an Orientation Assistant.
VOLUNTEER to become an English language tutor.
EAT delicious international cuisine every Friday at International Café!
For more information,
please contact
iprograms@ucsd.edu


I-Club
International Club (I-Club) is a student organization that welcomes and encourages ALL students-international and local to participate. Its mission is to promote cultural and civil engagement within an inviting, relaxed, and enjoyable atmosphere!
English in Action Tutor Program
The English in Action tutor program (EIA) is a volunteer-run program that helps international students/scholars and their spouses with English language skills. Anyone can volunteer! All you need is interest in learning about new cultures while helping the international community acclimate to their new environment. Want to be a Tutor? or Need a tutor?
Friday International Café
Interact with members of the UC San Diego community from all over the world while eating a delicious meal during our International Café held every Friday during the academic year (weeks 1-10) from 12:00-1:30 at the International Center. Everyone and anyone is welcome!
International Student Discussion Forums
Come join us on Friday afternoons from 12:00 -1:00 to meet and discuss topics relevant to International Student life. All forum participants receive a free International Café lunch!
Orientation Assistant (OA) Program
Help our newcomers get acclimated to their new environment New International Student Orientation, held every fall. As a volunteer Orientation Assistant, you will play an integral role in welcoming hundreds of international students, researchers, faculty, and family members to the UC San Diego campus, while learning about different cultures and having a great time!
Triton International Leaders
The Triton Leader Program provides an opportunity for current students and newly admitted international students to connect, communicate, and have fun! Triton Leaders develop strong leadership and communication skills while new international students are given a forum to get familiar with and learn about UCSD and the surrounding area Triton Leader.
International Education Week
International Education Week (IEW) is an opportunity to celebrate the benefits of international education and exchange worldwide. Initiated in 2000 by the US Department of State and the Department of Education, the week is dedicated to enhancing international awareness across UCSD campus as well as to reinforcing the importance of the exchange of students and scholars across borders.
Language Exchange
Help someone learn your language and enjoy conversational practice in their language in exchange. This is a self-run program where you review who is available and choose your partner based on your language preferences.
  • Contacts as agreed upon by you and your partner
  • Short term or long term commitment
  • Easy self-registration
  • Located in the Main Office
ACCESS for International Students
This 10 week non-credit course focuses on the life and relationships of international students inside and outside the university classroom. The goal is to help international students become familiar with UC San Diego resources and the multiple expectations and language required in a variety of university and other social situations in the United States.
International Family Orientation
International students and their family members are welcome to attend a special orientation that will provide information on educational and fun activities for families to participate in during their stay in San Diego.
Center for Student Involvement: UCSD Cultural Organizations
The Center for Student Involvement offers professional advising services, student organization resources, leadership and community service programs, and information on campus-wide events.
Friends of the International Center
The Friends of the International Center are a volunteer organization dedicated to furthering friendship, understanding, and cooperation with the international community. They sponsor many activities for international students, scholars, and their family members at the International Center.
People to People Logo People to People International
is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to advancing international understanding and friendship through educational, cultural and humanitarian activities involving the exchange of ideas and experiences directly among people of different countries and diverse cultures.
Coffee Cup Wednesday Morning Coffee
International visitors are welcome every Wednesday morning for coffee, conversation and friendship. 10:00 to 12:00 in the International Center.
See the current schedule of activities.
Resale Shop Friends' Resale Shop (858-534-1124)
The Resale Shop, at the UCSD International Center, is an on-campus thrift store.
Proceeds from the sale of gently used clothes, books and household items fund scholarships for international education.
Open Monday through Friday, 10:00am - 4:00pm during the academic year and Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, 10:03am-2:00pm during the summer.
Volunteers and donation of goods are welcome.
Intramural Sports Create an intramural team and be sponsored by the International Center!
Looking for a way to interact and connect with international students at UCSD? The I-Center is sponsoring intramural sports team every season that include at least one study abroad returnee and one international student. Click here(link to 2nd page) for more information.
Grants Grants for UCSD Student Organizations
Grants are awarded quarterly to on-campus student organizations devoted to creating programs or events that promote international education and exchange. Grants range from $100-200. Apply before the end of week 4 of each quarter. Application coming soon.
San Diego Bay Discover San Diego
Explore San Diego’s local attractions and activities during the weekend and academic break.  Trips include San Diego Zoo, SeaWorld, Balboa Park and more. More information coming soon.
Coffee Time Coffee/Tea With a Professor
Get to know your professors outside of the classroom!
Invite them to coffee/tea time at the International Center. Free beverages and snacks provided.  More information coming soon.
Thanksgiving Exchange Program Thanksgiving Exchange Program
International students can spend the Thanksgiving holiday with UC San Diego faculty, staff, students and local San Diego families to enjoy the Thanksgiving meal together and engage in cultural exchange. To participate as a student or host family, email  iprograms@ucsd.edu by November 4th.
Outback Adventures Outback Adventures
Two events available per quarter. Outdoor events include overnight camping trips, kayaking, surfing lessons, and more. Enjoy the great outdoors with the International Center and Outback Adventures!  More information coming soon.