Current International Students Resources

The Ivanhoe International Center assists international students at the South Dakota Mines campus, sponsors multicultural events, and works to enrich the cultural experiences available to South Dakota Mines students.  On this page you will find information and resources useful to our current international students. We're here to help, so please contact us if you have questions or need assistance.

Find out more about:

What is your Status and how do you maintain your status?

J-1 Students

More Information

Getting Settled

  • All students, faculty and staff are issued identification cards with their photos, names, and positions. ID cards are issued when you first arrive at South Dakota Mines and you are expected to keep and use your ID card during your entire student career.

  • South Dakota Mines has a computerized ID card system that serves as general identification, key card access in some buildings with labs, residence hall access, dining hall access, and for the student health center. You might also need your student ID to get into events. Lost or damaged cards may be replaced by contacting the Cashier's Office and paying a replacement card fee.

  • Your Grubby Card is a system where you can add money to your account and use your student ID to pay at certain businesses on and off campus.

  • The Hardrocker Discount Program has a partnership with local businesses that support South Dakota Mines students by offering an in-store discount on products and services. Look for the Hardrocker Discount decal at participating businesses.

    • After you arrive in the United States, you may want to set up a bank account. You will need two statements that show proof of address. Need proof of your address? Contact the Ivanhoe International Center.

    Cell Phones are widely used in the United States. Mobile service by some providers is limited in the greater Rapid City area. Please note: it is considered rude to let your cell phone ring during lectures and concerts!

    If you live in South Dakota for more than 90 days, you are required to have a state driver's license. When you are ready to apply for a driver's license, visit the South Dakota Department of Public Safety for Driver's License Information.

    The Rapid City Public Library has a wealth of information you can access.

    You will need proof of local address (such as a letter from the IIC office, your tuition statement, utility bill, etc.).

    They are located at: 610 Quincy Street (about 15 - 20 mins walk from campus to downtown).

    How to get a Library Card?


    Taxes for International Students

    ALL nonresident aliens, in F or J status, are required to complete Form 8843 with the IRS regardless of whether they receive income. This also includes dependents in F-2 and J-2 status, regardless of age.

  • See Taxes for International Student webpage for more information.

    • Employment for International Students

  • An international student in F-1 or J-1 status is only eligible for a Social Security Number (SSN) if the student either is employed or has an offer of employment. Actively seeking employment does not qualify the student for the SSN.

  • When you receive a job offer, please visit the Ivanhoe International Center for more information.

  • You can find additional information on the Social Security Administration websites:

    • Visit the Employment Authorization website for information.

    Safety and Security

    Rapid City and the surrounding area is a relatively safe place; however, please take precautions.
    • • Don't walk alone at night!
    • ◦ Walk with a friend when out late at night and walk on designated pathways and well-lit areas.
    • ◦ Work with another student when working late at night in campus buildings.
    • • Save emergency numbers in your phone:
    • ◦ Off-campus: call 9-1-1
    • ◦ SD Mines Campus Safety: 605-394-6111
    • • Locking doors and other items
    • ◦ Keep the door to your room and to your residence hall or your apartment/house locked both when you are home and away. Do not leave doors propped open.
    • ◦ Know who is at the door before you open it.
    • ◦ Be sure the exterior residence hall door locks behind you when you enter or leave the building to ensure the safety of others.
    • ◦ Secure bicycles through the wheel and frame with a high-quality cable AND lock or other approved device. Register bicycles with the Rapid City Police Department.
    • ◦ Car
    • > Lock your car doors anytime you leave the car.
    • > Don't leave obvious valuables in plain view in your car.
    • > Check the back seat of your car before you get in.
    • • When meeting strangers in person:
    • ◦ Insist on a public meeting place like a cafe.
    • ◦ Don't invite strangers into your home.
    • ◦ Consider having a friend accompany you.
    • ◦ Don't meet in a secluded place.
    • ◦ Be especially careful when buying/selling high value items.
    • ◦ Tell a friend or family member where you're going.
    • ◦ Take your cell phone along if you have one.
    • ◦ Trust your instincts.

    What is a Scam?
    A scam is a fraudulent or deceptive act or operation, often a dishonest way to make money by deceiving people. International students can be targeted for several scams. Keep-up-to-date on common scams and how to protect yourself.

    Visit this page for resources: https://www.sdsmt.edu/Campus-Life/Ivanhoe-International-Center/Scam-Prevention-Resources/

    Inviting Family to the U.S.

    While at South Dakota Mines, a student or scholar may want to invite a family member to visit. The following provides some suggestions to help family obtain a visa to enter the U.S. Please click here for more information.

    Other Useful Resources and Information