The Office of International Students Services (OISS) values our international students
for what they bring to our campus—diversity, global perspective, cultural respect,
determination, and a wonderful sense of adventure. We welcome students from all nationalities,
faiths, and education systems, as they provide a diverse perspective in our classrooms.
Greetings from Pepperdine University!
My name is Brooke O’Donnell, and I serve as the Executive Director of the International
Admission & Student Services. It is my honor to assist our global community here at
Pepperdine University and in the United States.
While our Malibu, California campus is undoubtedly one of the most breathtaking in
the world, it is the united commitment of the Pepperdine community to live lives of
purpose, service, and leadership that is truly most beautiful! We assure you that
we are here to help our students, and it is a privilege to do so.
If you are unclear on where to go for the answers to your questions, please do not
hesitate to reach out, and if we don’t know the answer, we will help find someone who does.
Helpful Resources
Travel Permission, Employment, and Other Approvals
Approvals for F-1 visa holders for international travel, employment authorization, contact
information or academic program updates, etc.
International Travel Guidance
As we approach the summer months, we recommend that students review this International Travel Guidance when considering travel plans to visit family or return home. With the possibility
of new federal travel restrictions, we want to encourage students to remain apprised
of the most current and official information and be aware of potential impacts on
your travel plans. Please don’t forget to submit your Travel Permission request.
Visa Appointment Wait Times
We are closely monitoring the temporary suspension of visa interviews and expect to
have an update on the resumption of appointments in the coming days. We expect resolution
of this situation very soon.
Here are some things you can do to be prepared for next steps, so you are ready as
soon as new appointments resume:
- Please complete the ISD as soon as possible. Once that is complete, we will issue
the I20, which is needed to secure the visa appointment.
- Please be aware of fraudulent activity around the world, where people are claiming
the ability to secure appointments for a fee. Please be cautious and do not utilize
such services.
- Check to see if any visa interview appointments are currently available in your city/region.
While new appointment slots are not currently being added, previously scheduled appointments
may still be available.
- Connect with your local EducationUSA office via social media. They will put out updates as they have them.
- EducationUSA also offers free pre-departure and visa interview preparation sessions
in a center near you.
- If you are a new transfer student or already in the U.S., consider staying in the
United States or contacting us before you leave.
If you have any concerns or questions about how to complete the ISD itself, please
don't hesitate to reach out to our office at admission-oiss@pepperdin.edu. We are
here to support you and will continue to provide updates as the situation evolves.
First Time & Re-entry to the United States
We recommend that international students have these essential documents with you in
your carry-on — do not pack them in checked luggage!
- Valid passport (good for at least 6 months ahead of your arrival)
- F-1 visa (or other approved student visa) in your passport
- Form I-20, signed by your Designated School Official (DSO)
- SEVIS I-901 Fee Payment
- University admission letter for new students or an enrollment verification letter
from OneStop for continuing students
- Proof of financial support
- Proof of accommodation (even if temporary)
- OISS and Department of Public Service (DPS) phone numbers
If students have any difficulties at the airport, during office hours (Monday - Friday
8am - 5pm) contact us.
Outside of office hours, you can contact Pepperdine's Department of Public Safety
(DPS) emergency line (310.506.4442). DPS will get in touch with one of our DSOs to
assist. Please only call DPS after hours in an emergency situation, such as a border
officer seeking verification of your enrollment.
2025-26 Cost of Attendance
Payment Options & Due Dates
International Wire Transfer
Flywire provides round-the-clock customer support for international wire transfer payment
and is available via live-chat, or by email at support@flywire.com.
Student Care Team
The Student Care Team (SCT) is here to walk alongside you through a variety of challenges. We can help connect
you with resources such as the Counseling Center and assist in coordinating other
support or accommodations.
Email: studentcareteam@pepperdine.edu
Phone: 310.506.6321
Counseling Center
The Counseling Center provides 24/7 confidential support, including telehealth services. You may also access
free mental health support through TimelyCare.
Counseling Center: 310.506.4210
Intercultural Affairs
The Intercultural Affairs (ICA) office is committed to creating a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment. They
offer advising, programs, and support that encourage identity exploration and cultural
understanding, all grounded in a Christian framework.
Email: ica@pepperdine.edu
Phone: 310.506.4244
Press Statement Regarding Some Chinese Student Visas
On May 28th,the US Department of State issued a press statement announcing plans to revoke visas for some Chinese students. It is our understanding
that only students with any past or present visa compliance issues, studying in "critical
fields," or who have demonstrated anti US sentiments on social media, or who have
close “connections to the Chinese Communist Party” may be affected. It is also our
understanding that the US Government considers “critical fields” of study to include
those relating to technological advancement applicable to both civilian and military
sectors.
There may also be revisions to visa criteria that increase scrutiny for future visa
applications from the People’s Republic of China and Hong Kong.
Notifications of revoked visas are sent directly to students at the email address
they used to apply for their visa. The OISS is closely monitoring SEVIS for changes,
as it is unlikely that we will be independently notified. Should you receive a notification,
we strongly recommend that you seek the assistance of an immigration attorney and
notify the OISS for support and counsel.
A revoked visa is no longer valid for entry or reentry to the United States and revocation
of a person's visa while they're in the United States can potentially affect their
legal status in the United States.
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