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Optional Practical Training: The OGSSE assists students in applying to the United States Customs and Immigration Services (USCIS) for OPT authorization to work in the U.S. Students must attend an information session to learn more about OPT options and regulations before applying. OPT guidance is not legal advice and the OGSSE is not responsible for the outcome of OPT applications. Note: Spouses and dependents in F-2 status may not work in the U.S. Employment under J Status: Students and their dependents in J status must meet with a staff member of the OGSSE in order to discuss authorization for both on- and off-campus employment. Address Changes: F-1 and J-1 students are responsible for submitting a physical address and any changes to the OGSSE within ten days of arrival or a move. The OGSSE updates the address in SEVIS in order to comply with reporting requirements. Accident & Incident Insurance or Health Insurance Gannon University has a policy that mandates that all enrolled global students must have Accident and Incident Insurance or Health Insurance coverage. Students who do not show proof of an approved comparable insurance plan that is operational in the United States will be subscribed to the default Accident & Incident Insurance Plan and charged accordingly. Students have the option to select the Health Insurance Plan by communicating with the Office of Global Support & Student Engagement by the established deadline.
OFFICE OF ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND GLOBAL TRAINING The Office of English Language and Global Training offers English as a Second Language (ESL) preparation; short-term programs, as well as workshops focusing on language and culture. The OELGT is an important and integral part of the Gannon University. Students and participants in the OELGT programs are beneficiaries of all the resources available to Gannon University’s students. English as a Second Language Program Gannon University’s English as a Second Language Program prepares non-native speakers to achieve the language competency necessary to succeed in an English language medium of instruction at the post-secondary level. The program guides students in their cultural adjustment to the United States by developing and strengthening their language ability, academic skills, and intercultural competence. Through its academic programming, as well as specialized services provided to English language learners, the program supports the University’s mission by its commitment to excellence in teaching, scholarship and service. The English as a Second Language Program is designed to meet the needs of students who are accepted to Gannon University and have yet to reach the required English language proficiency. Students who do not meet the required minimum benchmark must enroll in the ESL Program. Students will take a placement test that will determine their language level. Students may place in one of the six levels: Beginning 1, Beginning 2, Intermediate 1, Intermediate 2, Advanced 1, and Advanced 2. Each level can be completed in one nine-week session. At each level students take four core courses: reading, writing, grammar, and listening and speaking, as well as special courses tailored to support the needs of the students at a particular level. The English as a Second Language Program at Gannon University it is an intensive program, designed for rapid progression through the levels. Therefore, 100% attendance is expected from all students. Students who miss more than 10% of class time without a reasonable excuse are dismissed from the program and their SEVIS record will be terminated.