Criswell Student International Office

Criswell Student International Office

Mission Statement

The International Office at Criswell College supports international students by providing Christ-centered guidance in immigration, cultural integration, and academic success. We foster a welcoming community that equips students to thrive and contribute to the mission of Criswell College.

International Advising

International Student Application Process

Criswell College welcomes all international students to apply for admission. For a full list of requirements and process information, click the link below.

International Student Process

Immigration & Employment Guidance

  • CPT (Curricular Practical Training) – Learn how to apply and stay eligible for academic-related employment.
  • OPT (Optional Practical Training) – Steps for post-graduation work authorization.
  • Maintaining Status – Stay compliant with visa and SEVIS requirements.
  • SSN Requests – How to apply for a Social Security Number.
  • Travel Guidelines – Documentation, re-entry requirements, and travel tips.
  • Work Guidelines – On-campus and off-campus employment guidelines.

Intercultural Orientation

Understanding U.S. Academic Culture

  • Classroom participation, academic integrity, and professor–student relationships
  • Teaching styles, grading systems, and assignment expectations
  • Succeeding in group projects and using office hours effectively

Communication Styles & Language Norms

  • Verbal and non-verbal communication (e.g., eye contact, directness)
  • Common idioms, slang, and informal expressions
  • Strategies for clear, respectful cross-cultural communication

Cultural Adjustment & the “Culture Shock” Cycle

  • Stages: honeymoon → frustration → adjustment → acceptance
  • Managing homesickness, stress, and cultural fatigue
  • Coping strategies and on-campus mental health resources

U.S. Social Norms & Daily Life

  • Building friendships and understanding social etiquette
  • Navigating gender roles, personal space, and boundaries
  • Time management and involvement in campus life

Intercultural Awareness & Identity Reflection

  • Sharing your cultural background with others
  • Recognizing and responding to implicit bias or microaggressions
  • Promoting mutual respect and intercultural dialogue

Home Away from Home Program

Located in the Heart of Dallas

Explore Dallas → https://www.visitdallas.com/things-to-do/

Adopt-a-Student Initiative

Partner international students with local families to build lasting friendships and support networks.

Host Family Agreement includes:

  • Monthly care baskets
  • Holiday invitations
  • Prayer commitments and ongoing encouragement

Contact

PDSO: (Principal Designated School Official)
Luis Juarez, Vice President of Student Affairs and Dean of Students
ljuarez@criswell.edu
214-818-1345

DSO: (Designated School Official)
Noemi Rodriguez, Student Affairs Executive Manager
nrodriguez@criswell.edu
214-818-1398

HELPFUL LINKS

SOCIAL

HELPFUL LINKS

 
NOTICE OF NON-DISCRIMINATION
Criswell College admits students who are Christians of good character, without regard or reference to race, national or ethnic origin, color, age, disability, or sex (except where regard to sex is required by the College’s religious tenets regarding gender and sexuality) to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of these classifications in administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, and other school-administered programs.