International Circle Orientation

All incoming Bates students receive an extensive orientation upon arrival that will introduce you to campus and community, academics and life-at-Bates, and important information about higher education and the liberal arts that will help guide your time at Bates and beyond.

In addition, international students receive an orientation specific to transitioning to life in the U.S., and at Bates. You will be contacted directly with information about the structure and attending International Circle Orientation.

International Circle Orientation will run from Monday, August 25 through Wednesday, August 28 for Fall 2025. Please plan for an arrival on August 25 by 1:00 pm. Formal sessions will begin on that evening. Students flying into the U.S. on August 24th may land and come to campus that same day. Assistance from Portland, Maine Jetport or from the Portland or Lewiston bus stations will be available. Information and suggestions on easy travel from Boston Logan Airport (commonly used by Bates students) are also available. More information will be sent directly to students from Associate Dean James Reese from the Center for Global Education.

International Circle Orientation sessions include:

Campus and Local tours
Information on:
- immigration policies and rules
- healthcare in the U.S. and Bates services
- U.S. campus life and Bates social life
- Jobs and employment on campus
- U.S. culture and politics
- Practical questions sessions
- Preparing for academic life
Opportunities to connect with upper-class international students

If you have any questions about International Circle Orientation, travel planning, or anything related to life as an international student at Bates, please contact Associate Dean James Reese (jreese@bates.edu)