About
The International Offices are responsible for immigration-related matters for international students and scholars at Caltech and JPL. The International Offices are comprised of three offices, in three separate locations, that serve the international community of students, scholars, and their families at Caltech and JPL.
The International Offices believe Caltech and JPL thrive as diverse international communities. We actively support international students, scholars, and families in pursuit of professional and personal endeavors through individualized immigration advising, intercultural programming, and advocacy.
Message from the Director of the International Offices
2024 Update. This year began with a flurry of announcements of changes and improvements to U.S. visa processing and USCIS systems. Hopefully, this is the start of a year where we see efficient and reliable processing times at U.S. Consulates and at USCIS; where we continue to enhance opportunities to connect in-person on campus and lab; where the decision to travel home is simple; where immigration isn't a source of anxiety; where getting together with colleagues, family, and friends is straightforward; where the Caltech and JPL international community continues to grow; where international students and scholars can focus on classes, research, projects and enjoying life. We look forward to continuing to work with you in 2024. Stay in touch and let us know how we can help you.
You belong here. Caltech and JPL attract international students, postdocs, visitors, staff, and faculty from around the globe in pursuit of scientific and engineering excellence. In a recent Academic Year End letter, President Rosenbaum reflected that Caltech is a "destination of choice for the best and brightest from around the globe." Our community is proudly formed by people who share the common language of scientific inquiry and imagination, regardless of whether or not they share cultural backgrounds. Everyone is encouraged to bring their own cultural voices to their endeavors. We strive to amplify President Rosenbaum's message regarding Our International Community of Scholars.
It is essential that we maintain the open, vibrant sense of community that is so central to successful scholarship and innovation. In particular, we must ensure that our international colleagues – students, postdoctoral scholars, staff, and visitors – continue to feel welcome here, and continue to enjoy the personal and professional support that they need to pursue their most ambitious goals...
Whether your stay at Caltech or JPL is for a few months or for many years, we hope that you find a home on campus or on lab. We hope to provide you and your families with U.S. immigration and intercultural support throughout your affiliation with Caltech and JPL. You belong here.
Ilana Smith
Director, International Offices