Welcome to the Fall 2020 semester at Santa Monica College! In this unusual semester when all classes and activities are online, it’s exciting to think that we have students studying literally all over the world!
There are many ways to connect and get support at the college this semester. Please join the International Education Center for our weekly Open House on Zoom every Tuesday from 11:15 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. This is an unstructured time when you can drop in to chat, ask a question of your fellow students, or share a great tip. Join us for our Weekly Mingle every Friday from 2-3 p.m. There is a topic for each Mingle, and often a game. This is another opportunity to meet other students, make friends online, and get your questions answered. Check your SMC e-mail each week for the links to these events.
Check out the Student Support section of our new website to find helpful links to the Library for assistance with your online classes, to Health Services for ways to stay healthy and calm during these challenging times, and for a wide variety of other services available to you as an SMC student.
We look forward to seeing you in class, and during our events outside of class, but safely online this semester. Please reach out to the International Education Center at IntlEd@smc.edu anytime with your questions. We are looking forward to helping you!
All the Best,
Pressian Nicolov, Dean, IEC
Denise Kinsella, Associate Dean, IEC
Important reminders for new and continuing students:
- Wear your mask, wash your hand, and practice social distancing.
- Check your SMC email daily
- Join IEC and other campus virtual meetings. It is a great way to connect with friends and get your questions answered.

Personal Information Update
The International Education Center is required to have current information on F1 students. This includes address, phone number, and email address. If you have not provided IEC with your current contact information, please email us IntlEd@smc.edu. You may still update your information on Corsair Connect, but you must also notify the International Education Center.
F-1 Students Continuing Studies Outside the U.S. in Fall 2020
In order to maintain your F1 status from your home country, you must complete the semester with 12 units. If you are below 12 units and are not approved for a reduced course load, your I-20 will be terminated at the end of the semester, and you will need to apply for reinstatement.
Health Insurance
A referral is required any time the SHSC or the CWW is open. Due to COVID-19, the referral is not required for fall term only. Effective 8/25, all students are required to obtain a new insurance ID card.Get your insurance card at www.wellfleetstudent.comFind an In-network provider at www.Cigna.com
New Dial Care Service
DialCare Physician Access connects you with state-licensed, fully credentialed doctors, via phone and video chat, to provide treatment and advice for common ailments. No referral or co-payment required.DialCare Mental Wellness connects you with a mental health professional. It is safe, secure, and confidential.Learn more about DialCare.How to reach an International Counselor
Counseling Hours
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Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
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Friday, 11 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Let's Be Social!
College closed on the following holidays:
See All EventsStay Connected with IEC!