Golden Gate University School of Law is an award-winning, ABA-accredited law school with a prime location in the heart of San Francisco. GGU Law offers an innovative and personalized learning experience that produces a diverse group of graduates with the skill, judgment, and knowledge to become exceptional lawyers for today’s truly global market.
GGU Law invites qualified applicants from around the globe to expand and enhance their education.
INTERNATIONAL (NON-US) APPLICANTS
Applicants to the JD Program who completed an undergraduate degree outside the U.S. or Canada must fulfill all GGU Law JD Program application requirements, including submitting transcripts and letters of recommendation to the Law School Admission Council (LSAC), and registering through LSAC for the Law School Admission Test (LSAT). Visit the LSAC website for more information about transcripts, letters of recommendation, and the LSAT.
ENGLISH PROFICIENCY
JD Program applicants who received undergraduate instruction in a language other than English must satisfy the Admissions Committee of the proficiency of their English language abilities. An official Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) score report sent directly from the Education Testing Service (ETS) to the appropriate program at GGU Law satisfies this requirement. Visit the TOEFL website.
GGU Law accepts International English Language Testing (IELTS) scores. Students need about Level 6.5 to be admitted to the JD Program.
Alternatively, applicants who received undergraduate instruction in a language other than English may satisfy the Admissions Committee of their English proficiency by their performance on the LSAT.
APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS
TRANSCRIPTS
GGU Law requires a complete and detailed report, including course breakdown, grade evaluation, and degree equivalency. A report of basic equivalency is insufficient information.
We recommend that LLM and SJD applicants from other nations bring with them an extra copy of their official transcripts of undergraduate and law studies as well as any official documents they have received from the courts or bar associations of their home country indicating that they have been admitted to practice law in that country. Students planning to prepare for a bar examination may need a transcript evaluation by an independent agency. This evaluation can be completed after students arrive to begin the LLM or SJD programs.
ENGLISH PROFICIENCY
Applicants who received their degrees outside the United States must satisfy the Admissions Committee of the proficiency of their English language abilities. An official TOEFL score report sent directly from the Education Testing Service (ETS) to the appropriate program at GGU Law satisfies this requirement. Visit the TOEFL Website.
Applicants must receive a minimum TOEFL score of 580 Paper-based test (PBT), or 92 Internet-based test (iBT) for the LLM (Master of Laws) Programs in U.S. Legal Studies, International Legal Studies, Environmental Law, Intellectual Property Law, and Taxation, and the SJD (Doctorate) Program in International Legal Studies.
TOEFL Practice Online is a community for test takers preparing for the next generation TOEFL test, or anyone wishing to improve their academic English skills. This is the ONLY website that has official test material from the new TOEFL test that will assess these language skills: Listening, Writing, Reading, Speaking. By becoming a member you can access helpful information, discussion boards, sample responses from a speaking test, and purchase a practice test and practice questions. TOEFL Practice Online Website.
GGU Law accepts International English Language Testing (IELTS) scores. Students need about Level 6.5 to be admitted to the LLM (Master of Laws) Programs and the SJD (Doctorate) Program in International Legal Studies.
Proficiency may be demonstrated with either the TOEFL, IELTS, interview with Program Director, or waived for the exceptions.
HOW TO APPLY
You may submit your application to the LLM or SJD program through LSAC.
A J-1 visa authorizes a sponsored scholar from abroad to research through a qualified US law school. Golden Gate University School of Law is able to accommodate a limited number of visiting scholars each year to engage in significant independent legal research projects. Prospective scholars may apply to the program as Senior Visiting Scholars -- professors, government officials, and law professionals.
Since 2003, sponsored SJD students have engaged in significant independent legal research projects at Golden Gate University School of Law, located in the financial district of the world's most dynamic city, San Francisco, California, USA. These scholars have included students from many countries, including Iraq, Taiwan, and Turkey; attorneys from the major law firm HanaLaw; prosecutors from the South Korean Ministry of Justice; and senior Judges and court officials from the Supreme Court of Korea.
Since the inception of our Center for Advanced International Legal Studies in 1990, Golden Gate University School of Law's international legal studies program has expanded from the traditional notion of international law to encompass a broader range of international and comparative legal studies. GGU's rich offerings in international legal studies are enhanced by our diverse community of graduate law students from around the world, including experienced lawyers and professors of law who represent many of the world's major legal systems. The center stands in a unique position to provide opportunities for its students and graduates.
J-1 Visiting Scholars also are eligible to enroll in the ELS Language Center of San Francisco located near the campus of Golden Gate University. ELS Language Centers are an industry leader in advanced English language instruction for professionals. Their wide range of English as a Second Language (ESL) programs are designed to help advance research, careers, and to improve advanced English.
APPLICATION PROCESS
The visiting scholar application process consists of two parts: admission to GGU School of Law Graduate Law and approval of a J-1 Scholar visa.
LAW SCHOOL ADMISSION
Prospective visiting scholars must first submit an application to the School of Law using the J-1 Visiting Scholar application form at www.lsac.org. The completed application should include:
All applicants accepted into the visiting scholars program are considered "in residence" scholars and are expected to conduct their proposed research at GGU School of Law. Applications are reviewed for each applicant's academic background, research interests, scholarly achievements, and English-language proficiency.
J-1 VISAS
Most foreign visiting scholars will need to obtain a J-1 visa to pursue their research at GGU School of Law. J-1 visas are obtained by the issuance of a DS-2019 document. Applicants who obtain law school approval will receive a DS-2019 form along with the GGU School of Law J-1 Visiting Scholar invitation letter. DS-2019 applications are processed after an applicant is admitted to GGU as a J-1 scholar. Processing of the DS-2019 application takes from 1-2 weeks.
RESEARCH FACILITIES
Upon payment of the GGU School of Law fees and the receipt of a campus GGU ID card, visiting scholars have access to research services through the GGU School of Law. Most important, they have full use of the law library's extensive collection of legal material, which includes US and other common law jurisdictions as well as the law of more than 50+ jurisdictions of the world, and a collection of international, comparative, and human rights law. Visiting scholars may use the library any time the Golden Gate University Law Library is open. They may borrow any regularly circulating material from the law library and from most other campus libraries as well. In addition, visiting scholars obtain passwords to both Lexis and Westlaw, the two most important legal research databases in the United States. With these passwords visiting scholars will have access to extensive collections of US primary legal materials, journals and reviews, treatises and practice material, as well as to international law, newspapers, and other periodicals.
Due to space and budget restrictions, the law school cannot provide offices or library carrels for visiting scholars. Visiting scholars may be able to consult with law school faculty members in their specialized field of study, and they may audit law school classes with the professor's permission. Academic credit is not given for audited courses.
COMPUTING & OTHER SUPPORT SERVICES
Wireless access is available throughout the law school, including the law library. Once visiting scholars have their GGU4YOU ID card, they may use their laptop computers anywhere in the law school and in many locations throughout the GGU campus. In addition, the law library has a number of computers that can be used to gain access to all databases licensed by the campus, as well as to .edu .gov and .org websites. A commercial, fee-based, copying service is available in the law library.
LIVING EXPENSES
Living expenses/costs for an individual scholar are at a minimum $2,200 per month. A married couple should expect to incur expenses of at least $2,500 per month, plus $200 per child. Proof of source funding, based on these amounts, are required for GGU Graduate Law and J-1 visa approval.
QUESTIONS?
Please address all administrative questions regarding the GGU Law J-1 Visiting Scholars Program to the Law Admissions Office:
Telephone: +1-415-442-6630
E-mail: gradlawadmit@ggu.edu
International applicants must comply with US immigration laws and regulations. It is the law student's responsibility to obtain any required visas. All new international students must meet with their assigned SEVIS Designated School Official (DSO) upon arrival to complete the requirements established by US Department of Homeland Security (DHS), US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) or US Department of State (DOS).
ARRIVING IN THE UNITED STATES: WHAT SHOULD I DO WHEN I ARRIVE?
Arriving in the United States should be a smooth experience if you have the required documentary evidence below.
HOW TO PREPARE FOR THE US PORT OF ENTRY (POE)with US Customs and Border Protection (USCBP)
The Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record is a critical record. It shows that you have been legally admitted to the United States, the class of admission, and the authorized period of stay. It is very important that the information on the record is correct. Inconsistencies between the information on the Form I-94 and Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) records can reduce the chances of a successful systems interface. In particular, this can cause issues with status verification for Social Security numbers and/or (California) Department of Motor Vehicles DMV ID Card and/or Drivers Permit.
Exception to the Cal DMV SSN requirement: If you are legally present in the US, but ineligible for an SSN, you are exempt from SSN requirements. However, you must still provide an acceptable birth date/legal presence document for any DL/ID card application OR provide a valid SSN.
If you arrive at the port of entry by air or sea, an automated Form I-94 record will
automatically be generated for you by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers.
CBP will provide you with an admission stamp on your passport that is annotated with
date of admission, class of admission and admitted-until date. The electronic arrival/departure
record can be obtained at i94.cbp.dhs.gov/I94.
Secondary Inspection: If the CBP officer at the port of entry cannot verify your information, or if you do not have all of the required documentation, a CBP officer may direct you to an interview area known as secondary inspection.
REPORTING TO US LAW SCHOOL: You have 30 days to enter the country before your official program start date (start of law school orientation), which is recorded in SEVIS. You must report to your school by the program start date listed on the Form I-20, "Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Status" you received. This is one of the rules you agree to when you received your student or exchange visitor status. If you do not follow this rule, you are not maintaining your status.
It is best to contact your law school school immediately after entering the country so that there is no question of your arrival.
If you cannot enter the United States for the term listed on your Form I-20 or if you will be late by a few days, immediately contact your designated school officials so that they can accurately enter this information in your SEVIS record.
TRAVEL & REENTRY AT THE US PORT OF ENTRY (POE)
When to Arrive: When making travel plans, please be aware that F-1 and J-1 visa holders entering the US for a NEW academic program at Golden Gate University School of Law, may not enter the US earlier than 30 days before the begin date of their I-20 Form (F-1) or DS-2019 Form (J-1) documents.
Students or visiting researchers/faculty who are either continuing an on-going academic program at GGU School of Law or transferring from another US school to GGU Law are NOT subject to the 30-day arrival limit.
When you travel internationally and seek reentry at the US Port, be sure to ALWAYS carry your immigration travel documents (Passport and I-20 or DS-2019 Form) with you; do NOT check them in your baggage. If your baggage is lost or delayed, you will not be able to show the necessary evidentiary documents and, as a result, may not be able to enter the United States.
ARRIVAL PROCEDURES FOR F-1 STUDENTS OR J-1 EXCHANGE VISITORS
Advance Preparation Prior to Entry: Careful planning and preparation by students and exchange visitors can ensure that the delay based established procedure is minimal. If you are a non-immigrant student or exchange visitor, here are some things you should do:
DOCUMENTS YOU SHOULD ALWAYS CARRY ON YOUR PERSON:
If you are traveling by aircraft, the flight attendants on board will distribute CF-6059 Customs Declaration Forms and Form I-94, Arrival-Departure Record for immigration, before you land at your initial point-of-entry in the US Complete these forms while you are on the aircraft and submit them to the appropriate Customs and Border Protection Officer upon your arrival. If you do not understand a form, ask the flight attendant for assistance.
Upon arrival at the port-of- entry, proceed to the terminal area for arriving passengers for inspection. As you approach the inspection station, ensure that you have: passport, SEVIS Form I-20 or DS-2019, completed Form I-94 Arrival-Departure Record, and CF-6059 Customs Declaration Form available for presentation to the CBP Officer. The Form I-94 should reflect the address where you will reside (not the address of the school or program sponsor).
If you are entering through a land or designated seaport, the Customs and Border Protection Officer will provide the necessary CF-6059, Customs Declaration Form and Form I-94, Arrival-Departure Record at the port-of-entry. If you do not understand a form, ask the CBP Officer for assistance.
Like all entering visitors, you will be asked to state the reason you wish to enter the United States. You will also be asked to provide information about your final destination. It is important that you tell the CBP Officer that you will be a student or exchange visitor. Be prepared to include the name and address of the school or exchange visitor program where you will enroll/participate.
If you are authorized post-completion F-1 student 12-month optional practical training (OPT), this should be reflected on page 3 of your SEVIS Form.
Note: As of August 10, 2012, USCBP no longer stamps your SEVIS Form (except in rare cases).
Once your inspection is complete, the inspecting officer will return the SEVIS Form for your student visa immigration compliance records.
Continuing International (F-1 and J-1) Students and Scholars: Continuing students who are going to travel outside of the United States must see their foreign student advisor and obtain an endorsement from the DSO or RO. The endorsement will be made on page 3 of the SEVIS Form I-20 or page 1 of the DS-2019. When returning to the United States, a continuing student/exchange visitor must present a valid SEVIS Form I-20 or DS-2019 with the DSO or RO signature showing that the student is active and in good standing with the school or program.
REQUIRED US EVIDENTIARY IMMIGRATION (TRAVEL) DOCUMENTS
Be prepared to present the following documents to the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Officer:If you are traveling by aircraft, the flight attendants on board will distribute CF-6059 Customs Declaration Forms for immigration, before you land at your initial point-of-entry in the US. You will be required to complete this form while you are on the aircraft and submit them to the appropriate US Customs and Border Protection (USCBP) Officer upon your arrival at the US Port. If you do not understand a form or instructions, ask the flight attendant for assistance.
I-94 FORM UPDATE: AUTOMATION OF ARRIVAL/DEPARTURE RECORD
The I-94 automation will remove the need of the paper-based I-94 and instead will create an electronic record of the individual's entry and departure information: www.cbp.gov/I94.
You can now prove legal F-1 or J-1 status without the paper I-94 card. Your passport will now be stamped with the date of admission to the US and the visa status in which you have been admitted and this serves as proof of your legal status along with your passport and I-20/DS-2019 Form.
ALL travelers are advised to get a copy of their electronic I-94 (record of admission) for verification of alien registration (California Department of Motor Vehicles DMV ID Card), immigration status (Social Security Number SSN processing) and/or post-completion employment authorization (US Citizenship & Immigration Services USCIS). I-94 admission information can now be obtained from the official US Customs and Border Protection Website.
GGU School of Law International Student & Scholar Services recommends that you print your I-94 documentation from the official CBP website after each arrival in the US and retain for your immigration compliance records. The US government printout will serve as your official I-94 record which can be used for I-9 (employment eligibility verification) compliance as well as for other government agencies (e.g. DHS, Cal DMV, SSA).
All the previous rules and procedures related to the paper I-94 card still apply until your next entry to the US creates an electronic I-94 record. To see what the new I-94 document looks like see the following US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) FACT SHEET.
Effective April 2, 2013: US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) automated the I-94 (Arrival/Departure Record) process for ALL travelers applying for admission at US ports of entry. Air and sea travelers no longer need to complete paper Form I-94. USCBP I-94 Automation Fact Sheet.
In the event you need to complete this form at a US land port, be sure to write your name and other information exactly the same as it appears on your passport. Inconsistency in your name and information can create defects in your evidentiary documentation and could cause delay and/or secondary inspection in your arrival at the US land port.
Effective August 16, 2012: USCBP Officers will (in most instances) NO LONGER stamp I-20 and DS-2019 Forms at the US Ports of Entry as part of the launch of the US Citizenship and Immigration Services Electronic Information System (ELIS) -- online paperless environment: USCIS ELIS Fact Sheet.
US CBP Officers are expected to stamp valid passports (adjacent to student visa stamp) and make an official notation of the type of status you are being given as well as the expiration date. For F-1 and J-1 students, you will be given an expiration notation called "D/S" (Duration of Status).
If you have any problems during your entry at the US Port, please notify GGU Law International Student and Scholar Services (ISS) as soon as you arrive in San Francisco, California.
UPDATING YOUR CURRENT US MAILING ADDRESS WITH US DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (DHS)
To fulfill your address notification requirement and report or update your local US mailing address use the links and resources below.
All F-1 students and J-1 exchange visitors are required to report and maintain a local US address with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) within 10 days of arrival for new students and within 10 days of ANY address change. This must be your local residential address complete with room or apartment number. US Post Office (P.O.) Boxes and foreign addresses are NOT acceptable for this mandatory US immigration compliance purpose.
CURRENT GGU LAW STUDENTS
Report or update your local US mailing address within 10 days of address change through GGU4YOUand to US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) via Online Change of Address Form AR-11.
GGU LAW STUDENTS ON STANDARD 12 MONTH POST-COMPLETION F-1 OPTIONAL PRACTICAL TRAINING (OPT)
Email your GGU Law (ISS) advisor and report within 10 days any changes to the following information:
The information you submit to GGU Law (ISS) is used only for reporting to U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Student Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS), as mandated by Section 265 of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1305).
Students who fail to report this information as required will be in violation of their F-1 or J-1 status and may endanger their opportunities for future travel and employment benefits in the United States.
If you are an F-1 student, you have the option of working in the U.S. by engaging in practical training during your program or after it ends. Practical training can provide valuable work experience by sharpening and adding to the skills you are learning in school. There are two types of practical training available for F-1 students: curricular practical training (CPT) and optional practical training (OPT): http://www.ice.gov/sevis/practical-training/
F-1 STUDENT CURRICULAR PRACTICAL TRAINING (CPT)
This information is designed for students in the United States on F-1 temporary/non-immigrant status. This web page will provide you with information on a type of employment opportunity, which is known as "curricular practical training." Please also attend a Practical Training workshop or make an appointment for F-1 immigration advising at GGU Law International Student & Scholar Services (ISS) in the 536 Mission Street - Academic Building (Room 3301) in downtown San Francisco, California, USA.
CURRICULAR PRACTICAL TRAINING (CPT) DEFINITION
CPT is an authorized period of paid employment that is an integral or important part of a student's curriculum. At GGU Law, there are two scenarios which qualify students for CPT:
In cases in which the employment must be a requirement of the Law Degree, as in the LLM U.S. Legal Studies Program. In this case, you may or may not receive academic credit. The CPT endorsement must be issued by GGU Law during the same semester or term as the internship period.
In cases in which the practical internship is not a requirement of the program, the GGU law program must offer a CPT course for which the student receives academic credit. The CPT course must be offered during the same semester or term as the internship period. Failure to enroll in and complete the class will result in immediate violation of your legal status. It is the law student's responsibility to fulfill all requirements of CPT.
F-1 STUDENT CPT ELIGIBILITY CONDITIONS
F-1 STUDENT APPLICATION & AUTHORIZATION PROCEDURES
THE ALLOWABLE CPT EMPLOYMENT DATES FOR THE GGU SCHOOL OF LAW ACADEMIC YEAR ARE:
PRACTICAL TRAINING RESOURCES
US TAXATION: Who Must File (IRS) Form 8843?
All nonresident (temporary) aliens present in the US under F-1, F-2, J-1, or J-2 nonimmigrant status must file Form 8843 "Statement for Exempt Individuals and Individuals With a Medical Condition" -- even if they received NO income during CALENDAR YEAR 2012. Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Form 8843 must be filed if an individual is:
If an individual meets ALL three qualifications above, the individual must file Form 8843, regardless of the individual's age and even if the individual is not required to file a US income tax return (Form 1040NR or Form 1040NR-EZ).
WHAT IS (IRS) US TAX FORM 8843?
Form 8843 is not an income tax return. Form 8843 is merely an informational statement required by the US government for certain nonresident aliens (including the spouses or dependents of nonresident aliens) studying or conducting research in the US.
DO I NEED A US SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER (SSN) OR INDIVIDUAL TAXPAYER ID NUMBER (ITIN) TO FILE FORM 8843
Generally, no. Nonresident aliens who are not required to file an income tax return (Form 1040NR or Form 1040NR-EZ), but who are required to file Form 8843, need not apply for a Social Security number (SSN) or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). If, however, an SSN/ITIN has been assigned, the number must be included on Form 8843.
An exception to this rule is for individuals who are eligible to be claimed as dependents on a US income tax return. Such individuals must have an SSN/ITIN. Only nonresident aliens from a very limited number of countries may claim an exemption for their dependents on their US income tax return (Form 1040NR). In such a case, any dependent who is claimed must have a SSN/ITIN. An exemption for spouse and/or dependents is only applicable if the country of tax residence is: American Samoa, Canada, Korea, Mexico, Northern Mariana Islands, India (applicable only to F-1 and J-1 students).
HOW DO I SUBMIT US (IRS) TAX FORM 8843?
All individuals in the United States who have income must file a US tax return if their income is more than the personal exemption ($3800 for tax year 2012, $3900 for tax year 2013, $3950 for tax year 2014)
This informational handout was adapted from the official United States IRS.gov Website and a procedural guide written by United States IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA).
Disclaimer: Although the information above should be adequate to assist most international F-1 students and J-1 scholars, it is not a substitute for advice obtained from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) or a qualified tax professional. If your US visa status has changed in the past year, or you believe you have complicated tax issues, please consult the Internal Revenue Service or a qualified tax professional.
ABOUT
The US Government's Department of Homeland Security (DHS) requires the university to certify the financial resources of all international applicants who will be applying for the F-1 and J-1 visas. Admission to GGU Law is not dependent on your finances. However, GGU Law is unable to issue your Student Visa Request Form without financial certification.
TUITION
Tuition for the 2019 - 2020 academic year (August-May) is estimated to be approximately $1700 per unit. GGU Law does not make any distinction made between domestic and international students. All law students are required to pay administrative fees. See GGU Law Registrar to view the Tuition & Fee Schedule.
J-1 Visa Scholars must provide proof of health insurance in order to enroll. Contact GGU Law Student Support for more information.
LIVING EXPENSES
Living expenses, including shared housing, food, utilities, local transportation, books and supplies, are estimated based on a nine month academic calendar (August-May). These figures do not include travel within the United States or the cost of international airfare. Nor do they include the costs of owning and operating an automobile or the tuition costs of attending the university during the summer session (late May - July).
INSTRUCTIONS
You MUST submit the completed Certification of Finances with bank seal with your application, or you may submit an original letter from your sponsor's bank indicating the total amount of money that is currently on deposit.
To have a GGU Law Certification of Finances form sent to you, please email gradlawadmit@ggu.edu.
GGU students may use PeerTransfer GGU to make tuition payments via electronic bank transfer to reduce bank fees and get
lower exchange rates in addition to fund tracking and immediate assistance.
The last day to fulfill GGU School of Law tuition payment obligation for the Fall (August-December) and Spring (January - May) semester is the end of the second week of classes (Friday).
INTERNATIONAL FINANCIAL AID RESOURCES
One of the most commonly asked questions is: "Where do most students attending Golden Gate University School of Law live"? Students tend to live in whichever community best accommodates their living and commute needs. There are many communities inhabited by students attending other universities in the area. The San Francisco (SF) Bay Area Neighborhood information below includes some of the areas most lived-in by students.
TIP: Reserving a hotel, hostel or temporary residence BEFORE your arrival in San Francisco to provide yourself with a home base.
HOTELS IN SAN FRANCISCO
HOSTELS IN SAN FRANCISCO
Hostels are for those students who are in need of a place for just a few days (maximum stay is typically 3 nights).
Be sure to call far in advance for reservations.
RESIDENCE CLUBS IN SAN FRANCISCO
Local listings for Residences in downtown San Francisco:HOMESTAY IN SAN FRANCISCO
(Open to international students only) Homestay is affordable housing for international students and international interns. It is an opportunity to live in a friendly home with an American family and practice your English skills. It is safe and clean accommodation. Homestay provides international students with: A private or shared bedroom, A private or shared bathroom, Cleaning of linens and towels, Meals (continental breakfast and dinner)
San Francisco Homestay
Phone: +1-415-387-2884
E-mail: homestay@sfhomestay.com
Website: www.sfhomestay.com
TIPS TO HELP YOU AVOID REAL ESTATE PHISHING SCAMS
1. Develop a Renter's PortfolioRENT CONTROL IN SAN FRANCISCO
San Francisco observes rent control, which limits the amount of rent increase that your landlord can impose. The city establishes the maximum percentage of increase on rental properties to one raise per year (usually on your move-in anniversary date). It is very important that you understand that rent control only applies to multi-unit rental buildings that were built before 1979. If you are in a single-unit building or if your building was built after 1979, you are not under rent control. An apartment in a building built prior to 1979 will prevent big rent fluctuations, allowing you to have a relatively stable budget, especially helpful if you are living on loans or a student budget.
APARTMENTS & RENTALS IN SAN FRANCISCO
Additional (long-term) law student and scholar housing information for the San Francisco Bay Area:It is important to start early with a plan of action. Whether you are a first-time renter or a veteran apartment dweller, it is worth taking the time to decide what is most important to you in where want you live and to plan your search strategy accordingly. Compare and consider all the possibilities.
With that in mind, here are some things to consider: Do a Budget Analysis to determine which Bay Area community will best meet your needs and is within your cost of living expenses limits. See Estimated Living Expenses chart below for the 2013-14 Academic Year:
Total Living Expenses Approximately $19,000 (USD) for 24 unit LLM (Master of Laws) Programs as follows:The advantage of living in San Francisco (The Best City in The US) (World's Most Dynamic City) is proximity to GGU School of Law and easy transportation; the disadvantage is higher rent costs. The advantage of living in other Bay Area communities, especially the East Bay region, is lower rent; the disadvantage is time and money spent on transportation. In some instances, commuting from the nearby East Bay is comparable to commute time from some locations in San Francisco. Compare and consider all of the possibilities. You will need a map to help plan your search.
THE HOUSING SEARCH STRATEGY
You can start your search for housing before you leave for San Francisco, but be aware that rentals go quickly and are usually not available much in advance. Finding housing in San Francisco can actually be done in a weekend if you are not too particular, but the better approach would allow several days after arrival. Here are some suggestions for starting your search:
Become Familiar with Housing Vocabulary
DEVELOP A HOUSING WISH LIST
List the things that are important to you, and then try to order them by importance. Do you need laundry? Do you need to live on the top floor? Do you want to walk to work/school, or is public transportation okay? Do you need a parking spot? Can you deal with carpets or do you need hardwood floors? These are all important questions to decide on before you start your search. Prepare All Necessary PaperworkMost landlords require a record of credit history and rental history references. Their applications might also ask for a social security number or a driver's license number. Since you are an international student or scholar, you may not have any of these documents. Instead, you may want to request a recommendation letter from your immigration advisor to give to the landlord. It also helps to mention that you are a visiting scholar or student at GGU and that you have one or more law degree(s) (LLB, LLM, SJD).
BECOME FAMILIAR WITH THE NAMES OF NEIGHBORHOODS
You will want to look for housing in a neighborhood near the GGU campus where you will be working or studying, or along public transportation lines to make your commute more convenient since parking is difficult to find. For a detailed description of the neighborhoods in San Francisco, go to the following informative website for details:
CHECK BULLETIN BOARDS AT GGU
Many ads are for roommates. The most popular one is located at 536 Mission Street in the Academic Building outside the Law Library on the first floor.
VISIT SAN FRANCISCO NEIGHBORHOODS
After you have researched directions and a mode of transportation to GGU School of Law; one of the best ways to find housing is to select and visit the neighborhoods. Walk or drive through areas where you may be interested in living, look for "For Rent" signs or a moving van being loaded. Walking the streets of San Francisco is enjoyable and entertaining. A quick walk around a neighborhood will let you know if the area is suitable to your needs. Visit the area both day and night to get a feel for the character of the neighborhood.
Consider a walking tour of San Francisco, if time allows. This would be a good way to become familiar with San Francisco and learn the locations of the neighborhoods. The links below are guides to some of the San Francisco and surrounding Bay Area communities. The GGU bookstore sells maps and guide books for walking in San Francisco.
Make Appointment for ViewingAfter compiling a list of places that you are interested in, call to make appointments for viewing. It might be a good idea to borrow or lease a cell phone from a telephone or electronics store (see TELEPHONE SERVICE section). You may also want to prepare a script when leaving telephone messages for the landlord, mentioning that you are a new visiting scholar or student at GGU School of Law and that you are looking forward to seeing the rental property. Remember to slowly and clearly state your name and telephone number where you may be reached.
When you find an apartment that you like, do not hesitate to let the landlord know immediately that you are interested. Suitable accommodations that satisfy your unique needs are hard to find in San Francisco. Make sure you have a blank check ready to make a deposit.
Appropriate questions to ask your landlord might include what utilities are included in the rent (water, gas, electricity); when the apartment will be available; deposit amounts; safety of neighborhood; parking availability and costs; acceptability of pets (be aware that few landlords permit pets, especially dogs).
If you are looking for a roommate, it is perfectly acceptable to meet with the person for an interview. You would not want to move in with someone that might not be suitable for you. In fact, because the cost of housing is high in San Francisco, it is common that people will live with several roommates to help share the cost of rent. Do not be surprised if you are asked for an interview yourself from everyone in the house.
LONGER TERM STUDENT HOUSING OPPORTUNITIES
NEWSPAPERS FOR SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA
INTERNET RESOURCES
There are many sites that provide rental information and assist new residents with sightseeing, entertainment, dining, shopping, and maps. The following list covers only a few of the websites available:
EAST BAY NEIGHBORHOODS & COMMUNITIES
Many apartment buildings in "the City" offer views of both San Francisco and the East Bay. San Francisco is apartment oriented; two out of every three housing structures have multiple units. Like most great cities, San Francisco is comprised of small neighborhoods, each with its own unique character. It is a vibrant city with a population from all cultures and walks of life. The East Bay communities offer a variety of apartments, houses, and condominiums.
Many of the East Bay neighborhoods are undergoing a revival and have increased the number of multiplex units that are near to the BART stations and AC Transit. The East Bay is home to the beautiful Rose Garden. Visiting the renovated Paramount and Fox Theaters is worth a trip from anywhere in the Bay Area. Downtown Oakland offers a variety of newly built apartments adding to the character of the area's restoration. Going through Piedmont to the Rockridge area, you will find vintage clothing, furniture shops, and streets lined with coffee houses and fine restaurants.
CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE IN SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA
While searching for housing, get a brief description of the neighborhoods and an overview of the apartment rental averages from the following Chamber of Commerce websites:
RENTAL/ROOMMATE REFERRAL AGENCIES
Consider the advantages and disadvantages of having a roommate to share the cost. Before you decide on a roommate, discuss life-styles. Be honest with each other. Habits discovered later could cause problems not easily settled. Check out your schedules and personal habits. Agree on a financial plan. If you enter into a roommate agreement with everything up front, your experience should be a good one. More information on roommate selection and agreements is available online at Easy Roommate and other online sites. There are several agencies in San Francisco and the East Bay that link people looking for housing with people who have space available. It is important to be specific about what you need and to carefully interview potential landlords and/or roommates.
GETTING SETTLED IN THE SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA
There are many things to consider when preparing to move. Consider creating a Moving Checklist to help guide you through this stressful time.
MAPS OF SAN FRANCISCO
GGU Law assumes no responsibility for any contractual services or agreements entered into by users of this student & scholar HOUSING guide. Website, addresses, telephone numbers, agencies, services, and transportation are included in the listings; however, users of this guide communicate, contract, and do business with individuals, companies, or firms strictly at their own risk.
GGU Law is committed to providing a healthy environment that fosters academic excellence. While the law school does not currently require students to carry health insurance, such coverage is mandated by the Affordable Care Act, and we strongly encourage all students to maintain coverage. Accidents and illness do occur, and reliable insurance coverage allows students to focus on their studies and avoid large medical bills. More information about options for coverage can be found through the state's health insurance marketplace Covered California.
Full-time students who do not earn any income may be eligible for coverage through Medi-Cal at low or no cost. Students may also pursue coverage through a spouse or parent's plan. For part-time evening students, coverage may also be available through an employer's plan. Questions about specific insurance plans should be addressed to Covered California or the relevant insurance provider.
Admitted GGU law students may now complete online waiver using ISO insurance at the GGU Law Health Insurance WAIVER ONLINE:Try to become familiar with the plan provisions and refer to it before obtaining health care coverage in the US. As with any health insurance benefit program, there are limitation and exclusions with which you should become familiar.
It is advisable to seek US health insurance that offers the following coverage at or above the following:HEALTH INSURANCE (MEDICAL) RESOURCES
Golden Gate University (GGU) School of Law assumes no responsibility for any contractual services or agreements entered into by users of this student & scholar HEALTH INSURANCE guide. Website, addresses, telephone numbers, agencies, services, and transportation are included in the listings; however, users of this guide communicate, contract, and do business with individuals, companies, or firms strictly at their own risk.
GENERAL SCHOLARSHIP & FINANCIAL AID GUIDELINES
This scholarship and financial aid information is provided for the convenience and benefit of international applicants to the Golden Gate University School of Law. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list. GGU and the law school have no connection with the organizations and institutions listed below. GGU is not responsible for, and cannot guarantee the accuracy of, the information provided, or availability of funds from any source. Applicants are directed to verify the information with, and apply directly to, appropriate institutions. In many cases, the application process may take many months, so plan accordingly.
(NEW) INTERNATIONAL FINANCIAL AID RESOURCES
STUDENT LOANS
Students must be US citizens or permanent residents to be eligible to apply for US federal student loan programs. However, there are private financial institutions and organizations offering loans to non-US citizens/non-US residents. Review and consider the terms and qualifying criteria before applying. Golden Gate University School of Law has no affiliation nor do we endorse any of these loan programs.
LEGAL WRITING COMPETITION AWARDS
SOURCES OF SCHOLARSHIPS & FINANCIAL AVAILABLE TO INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
The following scholarships are available for international students. Please be sure to read qualifications carefully:SCHOLARSHIP & FINANCIAL AID RESOURCES ONLINE
This list is based upon the most current data available. Be advised that these awards may have increased, decreased, or eliminated without notice. Application deadlines may change as well. There are free and subscription searches on the Internet. Before using a scholarship search service that charges a fee, please review the following consumer-oriented websites: FinAid and FTC.
SCHOLARSHIP & FINANCIAL AID PUBLICATIONS
Golden Gate University School of Law
International Admissions
536 Mission Street, Suite 3320
San Francisco, California, 94105-2968 USA
Phone: +1-415-369-5289
Golden Gate University (GGU) School of Law is fully accredited by the American Bar Association (ABA) and is a member in good standing of the Association of American Law School (AALS). GGU is a member of The Educating Tomorrow's Lawyers (ETL) Consortium of 28 leading American Bar Association (ABA) Law Schools (Including Cornell, CUNY, Georgetown, NYU, and USC) committed to innovative legal education in the spirit of The Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching.
APPLICATION DEADLINES
JD FULL-TIME PROGRAM
JD-FLEX
UPCOMING LAW EVENTS
GUIDED CAMPUS TOURS
Guided or self-guided visits by appointment.
INFO SESSIONS & OPEN HOUSES
Explore our innovative curriculum, on-site legal clinics and life as a law student.
RECRUITING EVENTS
At law fairs and forums across the U.S.