NMC clarifies $200 international student fee

The Northern Marianas College clarified yesterday the application of the international student fee that was recently adopted by the NMC Board of Regents.

In a statement, the college emphasized that the fee only applies to international students, who are students enrolled in NMC classes through an “M” or “F” visa. Other students-including green card holders-who were incorrectly assessed this fee during the spring 2012 registration period, will be reimbursed.

“We regret any inconvenience and confusion that the application of the new international student fee may have caused,” said NMC president Sharon Y. Hart. “Nonetheless, we are working to refund students who were erroneously charged.”

In addition to the issuance of public announcements, college staff will be personally contacting students to let them know about the refund.

“We are continuously improving the programs and services that we provide to our students as they pursue their educational goals,” said Hart. “This includes correcting any errors in the soonest possible time and with minimal interruption to our students’ focus on their studies.”

The implementation of the fee during the spring semester was also intended to immediately offset the lack of funds to sustain its international adviser, whose primary duties involve the coordination of all academic support services for all international students. With the implementation of the new fee, the college also hopes to increase training for staff who provide direct services to all international students.

“Our experience and current work with international students have also revealed additional service needs from this student population, including translation services, academic advising services, academic tutorial services, publication of important college policies, procedures, forms, and other material in different languages, and student orientation activities to name a few,” said Leo Pangelinan, dean of Student Services.

In the months ahead, according to Pangelinan, students should expect to see a defined space on campus equipped with resource materials and staff to address the needs of international students and to ensure that all are equipped to successfully navigate the college environment and participate fully toward achieving their academic goals as a student at NMC. (NMC)