International Orientation

July 29 – August 2, 2024

This optional five-day program is highly recommended for any visa holder who has not worked or gone to school in the United States. International Orientation (IO) is not an “English as a Second Language” or ESL course; this program is designed to introduce students to Tuck and Hanover, and to the broader academic and business culture in the United States. An added bonus is the chance to get to know some of your classmates, Tuck professors and administration before school officially begins – an opportunity that has been highly valued by previous participants. Last year, 50% of the international incoming class attended IO!

International Orientation is taught by a variety of faculty, guest speakers, and practical experts with a focus on developing confidence with the nuances of cultural differences and contexts inside and outside of the classroom, academic preparation, and career skill-building. Participants will experience what it is like to be in a Tuck class, work with Career Services advisers on resume, cover letter, and networking skills including cold calls and writing cold emails to Tuck alums. Participants will also connect with international alums who are invested in supporting international students throughout the Tuck two-year MBA program and beyond. International Orientation participants will also have the opportunity to meet with Financial Aid officers, the MBA Program Office, and other key administrative officers as they prepare for the year ahead (housing, parking & transportation, Office of Visa & Immigration Services, etc.). Finally, there will be opportunities for fun and connection with students participating in other Tuck programs.

Components of the program include the following:

  • Academic Preparation: Case method classroom preparation via “Cracking the Case” taught by Tuck professors
  • Career Workshops: Networking, communication, and presentation skills
  • Community Building: Lunches, dinners, and other opportunities to meet Tuck senior leaders and second-year students
  • Organized hike to take in the beautiful scenery of the Upper Valley, the region where Tuck is located
  • Get settled in before classes begin: First-priority to participate in an organized trip to Concord, NH to the Social Security and Department of Motor Vehicle Offices (limited space available)
  • Meet with Financial Aid and Office of Visa & Immigration Services (OVIS) staff

Schedule and Fees

The International Orientation Program begins on Monday and ends on Friday. The schedule will vary each day.

When you arrive, the MBA Program Office will give you a schedule for the week and a checklist of things to do during your free time; you will have time throughout the week to take care of personal affairs. You will also have the opportunity to meet students enrolled in the Pre-Enrollment Program during planned social events at meals and during the evening.

The cost for the International Orientation Program for 2024-2025 will be $600.

The fees will be charged to your student account if you participate in the program.

How to Apply

Submit the Pre-Term Programs Application to the MBA Program Office by June 5 at 5PM ET.

Tuck Voices

“Hanover is the best place for international students to immerse themselves in the American college experience. Tuck has an incredible support system to help international students integrate and be successful in a new country: international orientation, tailored recruiting panels, country chats to present your unique culture to the school, international events, international visiting executives, and the MBA Program Office (MBAPO), which is extremely helpful navigating unexpected situations.”

Laura Ionita T’15