Center for Global Education
The Center for Global Education fosters the development of “Global Spartans,” both international and domestic, through global learning opportunities and strategic academic pathways.
The CGE is the “home away from home” for international students and scholars. Our office leads the university’s mission to achieve and grow global representation within our student body through the strategic development and management of our international partner network. We provide advising and support services regarding visa, immigration regulations, and benefits related to F-1 and J-1 nonimmigrant visa categories. We assist new students and scholars with pre-arrival preparations, finding suitable housing, transportation from GSP airport, orientation, and a variety of programs and events throughout the year. Our programs are designed to facilitate transition into the USC Upstate community, cultural immersion and exchange. CGE offers guidance and support to international students and hiring managers regarding on campus employment. In addition, CGE provides guidance to international students who are interested in applying, and are eligible, for off-campus employment through Curricular Practical Training (CPT) and Optional Practical Training (OPT). We offer guidance to international students and scholars who are interested in applying for a South Carolina driver’s license, social security card, and employment authorization.
The CGE establishes and manages university partnerships worldwide to provide global engagement programs and support services that enrich the academic and professional development of students, faculty, and staff. Global engagement programs include study abroad for academic credits (short-term, semester, year abroad, and dual-degree programs through exchange and direct enroll), international internships, service learning, research, volunteer, and teach abroad. We guide and support students through every step in the process of identifying suitable international engagement, application, preparation for going abroad, support while abroad, and re-entry programs. CGE also offers support to faculty and staff with planning and implementing short-term international engagement and study abroad programs. We support students and faculty to apply for grants and fellowships that are designed to provide both partial and full funding for international engagement.