As international students, you contribute an important cultural dimension to the University of Nebraska and the City of Lincoln. Your customs and experiences are of interest. We hope you will be willing to share them with us and fellow students from other nations. The University maintains an Office of International Educational Services that is willing to discuss and help you with problems. It is suggested that you visit them at your earliest convenience. You will also find the faculty, secretaries and students of the Department of Horticulture willing to help you become adjusted. Do not be embarrassed nor hesitate to ask questions if you do not understand.

A minimal acceptable level of the TOEFL for entrance into the Graduate College is a score of 500. The department requires students to have a score of 550. Students at the minimal level (e.g. 550-600) are strongly encouraged and advised to take the UNL intensive English course during their first semester here.

GRADES - In the United States it is not acceptable to bargain for grades or to ask to do extra work to improve a grade once the final grade is earned. You are encouraged to visit your professors during the course of the semester in order to accurately assess your progress. At that time, you should discuss any problems that you are having taking the exams or answering the questions. Don't wait!

FINANCES - Be very careful in money matters, especially about attaining credit cards or buying anything such as a car on credit. Before signing any agreements, be sure that you understand them. If you don't, then ask someone to explain the lease or agreement to you.

(1) Non-Resident, based on 28 credit hours per academic year.
(2) Non-Resident, based on 18 credit hours per academic year.
(3) Based on a shared apartment and includes utilities.
(4) Includes local transportation, mandatory health insurance ($450), recreation, telephone, and personal hygiene and health care.
*For single(unmarried) graduate student
Taken from 5/26/9 memo from Dr. Merlin Lawson, John Beacon, and Dr. Peter Levitov

INSURANCE - Neither the United States government nor the University provides health insurance, so you ABSOLUTELY MUST buy health insurance for yourself and all members of your family (a visit to the emergency room of a hospital averages $1500 without insurance). This information can be obtained from the University Health Center or the IES office. CAR insurance MUST also be purchased. It is a State law. Ask your advisor or fellow graduate students for suggestions on car insurance companies.

OUTSIDE EMPLOYMENT - Unless you have a Green card you may not accept a job in the U.S. If you do attempt to work without a Green Card, the United States Immigration Service has the right to put you in jail and/or deport you immediately. Lastly, if you are having problems reading and understanding any or all parts of this manual, you may want to consider taking some additional English courses to improve your proficiency in English. See your major professor for course suggestions.