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Evergreen Valley College

A Resource for International Students at Evergreen Valley College

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This handbook is created by the International Student Program at Evergreen Valley College (EVC), aiming to provide international students with basic information on life at

EVC and in the US and make the adjustment period as clear and easy as possible

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Table of Contents Welcome .............................................................................................................................. 3

A welcome letter from Mr. Octavio Cruz, Dean of Admissions & Records ........................................................... 3

Important Contact Information for International Students ........................................... 4

Important Dates (Fall Semester) ................................................................................. 5

International Student Orientation ............................................................................... 5 Purpose of International Student Orientation ................................................................................................................ 5 Agenda of International Student Orientation ....................................................................................................................6

Visa Requirements ..................................................................................................... 7 Applying for a F-1 Student visa ............................................................................................................................................. 7 Document Checklist for Entry into the U.S ....................................................................................................................... 7 Arrival at EVC (Check-In) ........................................................................................................................................................ 7

Health Insurance ........................................................................................................ 8

Academic Life ............................................................................................................. 8 Life in the Classroom ................................................................................................................................................................ 8 Academic Integrity................................................................................................................................................................ ..... 8 Plagiarism ...................................................................................................................................................................................... 8 Cheating ..................................................................................................................................................................................................... 8

Registration ............................................................................................................... 9 Registration English as a Second Language (ESL) ......................................................................................................... 9

Employment on/off Campus……………………………………………………………………………………. 10

International Student Athletes .................................................................................. 11

Summer/Winter Travel ............................................................................................. 11

Banking..................................................................................................................... 11 Choosing the Right Bank ....................................................................................................................................................... 11 Opening an Account ................................................................................................................................................................ 12 Q & A .............................................................................................................................................................................................. 12

Cell Phones ............................................................................................................... 13

Directions ................................................................................................................. 14 How to Get to Campus .................................................................................................................................................................... 14

Campus Safety .......................................................................................................... 15 Evacuation map ................................................................................................................................................................ ...................... 15 Parking Fees ............................................................................................................................................................................................. 15

Driving ...................................................................................................................... 15

Acknowledgement .................................................................................................... 16

Appendices ............................................................................................................... 16 1. Campus Map ........................................................................................................................................................................................... 17 2. Conversion .................................................................................................................................................................................... 18 3. Wells Fargo’s Answers to Banking Q&A ......................................................................................................................... ...18

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Welcome A welcome letter from Mr. Octavio Cruz, Dean of Admissions & Records

Dear Evergreen Valley College International Student,

I am very pleased to welcome you to Evergreen Valley College! As you travel along your educational path, our International Student Program Office will make every effort to ensure you have a fulfilling and rewarding educational experience with us at our college.

Our office knows that deciding to take the step to study abroad means that you are a strong and courageous person; congratulations on your decision. By participating in our international students program, you have already shown that you are willing to expand your boundaries and grow both educationally and personally. We commend you on your bravery!

The staff in the International Student Program look forward to serving you with your immigration questions and needs. To assist you with better integrating into American culture, we have designed the Pre-Arrival Handbook to answer some of the questions you may have. The Pre-Arrival Handbook is a tool for you to understand the steps involved in different aspects of life - from banking to driving to cell phones and more. It is our aim to provide you with a reference guide to make your transition to life in Silicon Valley go as smoothly as possible. We hope you continue to refer to it throughout your stay.

International students bring to our college a diverse global perspective that our college community greatly values. On behalf of Evergreen Valley College and the International Student Program Office, I warmly welcome you and greatly look forward to meeting you.

Best Regards,

Octavio G. Cruz Jr Dean of Enrollment Services Primary Designated School Official (PDSO) Evergreen Valley College 408.270.6423 (office) 408.223.9351 (fax) Octavio.Cruz@evc.edu

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Important Contact Information for International Students

International Student Program (ISP) http://www.evc.edu/current-students/admissions-and-records/international-students Phone: 408.223.6740 Fax: 408.223.9351 E-mail: international@evc.edu Location: Student Service Center Room 201

Admissions & Records Phone: 408.270.6441 Fax: 408.223.9351 E-mail: evcar@evc.edu Location: A & R Building

Health Services http://www.evc.edu/current- students/support-programs/health-center Phone: 408.270.6480 Fax: 408.532.1831 Location: Student Center Room 124

Tutoring Center http://www.evc.edu/current-students/tutoring-center Phone: 408.7900 ext. 6802 E-mail: william.nguyen@evc.edu Location: Rooms LE-237 (All Subjects except Math & Science) and AD-141 (Math & Science)

Campus Police http://www.evc.edu/discover-evc/campus-safety Phone: 408.270.6468 For Emergency call 911 Fax: 408.239.0417 E-mail: DODP@sjeccd.org Location: Lot 4A, portable office

International Counseling Name of Counselor: Laura Bettencourt Phone: 408.223.6711 E- mail: laura.bettencourt@evc.edu Location: Room SC223, General Counseling Office Hours: 8am to 5pm, Monday to Friday, appointment only

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Important Dates (Fall 2016 Semester) Students enrolled in fall short term classes (less than 16 weeks) should drop by the first scheduled class meeting to avoid receiving a "W" and being charged registration fees.

Students enrolled in fall regular semester classes (16 weeks) should drop before the CENSUS Day – September 12th, 2016.

August 29 (Mon) Fall REGULAR Session Begins September 3 ‐ 4 No classes held September 5 (Mon) Labor Day – campus closed

September 11 (Sun)

LAST DAY TO DROP fall REGULAR classes without receiving a "W" on record or being assessed fees. LAST DAY TO DROP fall REGULAR classes with eligibility for a refund of registration fees.

LAST DAY TO ADD via MYWEB using Add codes for fall REGULAR classes (11pm)

September 12 (Mon) Census Day September 13 (Tue) FIRST DAY OF WITHDRAWAL "W" period for fall REGULAR classes. September 30 (Fri) LAST DAY TO SUBMIT Credit/No Credit forms to the Office of Admissions and Records October 10 (Mon) Graduation/Certificate Petitions for fall 2016 due in the Office of Admissions and Records November 11‐13 Veterans Day – campus closed November 18 (Fri) LAST DAY TO DROP fall REGULAR classes and receive a "W" on record November 24 – 25 Thanksgiving Holiday – campus closed November 26 ‐ 27 No classes held

December 9 (Fri) English final exams ‐ no regular day classes meet. Friday evening classes will meet as scheduled.

December 15 (Thu) Fall REGULAR Classes End January 11, (Wed) Fall REGULAR Classes 2016 grades available online at MyWEB http://myweb.sjeccd.edu

International Student Orientation Purpose of International Student Orientation International Student Orientation is MANDATORY for all new incoming international (F-1) students. This is a good opportunity for international students to learn more about the EVC campus, life at EVC, meet with faculty, staff, and other international students, as long as gain valuable information regarding visa issues/immigration regulations. We look forward to meeting every one of our new international students at the Orientation! Time: 10am -2pm Date: Tuesday, August 16th, 2016 Location: Visual Performing Arts Building, Room VPA115

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Agenda of International Student Orientation

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Visa Requirements

Applying for a F-1 Student visa We strongly urge you to schedule the visa appointment after you have received the admission letter and I-20 form from EVC. Be sure to have all required documents in order before attending the visa appointment. For any questions directly related to the student visa application, contact the US Embassy or Consulate near you, as the required documents vary depending on the country of citizenship. In general, make sure you have paid the required SEVIS fee at least three business days prior to your interview date, and that your passport is valid at least six months into the future. Additionally, you should have the original I-20 in hand.

Good luck with the visa interview process and we look forward to meeting each of you at the International Student Orientation!

Be sure to carry all of the following with you for entry into the U.S.

Document Checklist for Entry into the U.S. 1. Valid passport 2. Valid F-1 visa (it’s a stamp on one page of the passport) 3. Original signed I-20 form 4. Original financial documents used to obtain visa 5. Letter of admission to Evergreen Valley College

When you go through immigration, you will claim your baggage and then proceed through customs. You will need to respond to several questions on a form for customs, such as:

• Are you carrying more than $10,000? • Are you carrying fruits or vegetables?

Please answer these questions honestly; because if you lie and such items are found, the penalty and punishment is much greater.

Arrival at EVC (Check-In) Upon 15 days of arrival in the US, all new students, including transfer students, are required to check in with the EVC International Programs & Services Office (IPS) at Room 201 inside Building of the Student Services Center (failure to do so will result in the termination of your F- 1 student visa). To this end, students should bring the following documents:

1. The Initial I-20 (for students coming outside of the U.S. as an initial F-1 student) or I- 20’s from all previous schools attended (for transfer students)

2. Passport with F-1 visa stamp 3. I-94 card

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In addition, students should also read and sign the document “Compliance with U.S. Immigration Laws and Regulations: The Role and Responsibility of the International Student” with the IPS office upon arrival at EVC.

Please note that failure to check-in with IPS within 10 days of the start date of classes will result in the termination of your F-1 student status. The transfer process is not complete until you check-in at IPS. If you have any questions concerning the transfer process please contact International Programs & Services Office at 408.223.6740; or email: international@evc.edu.

Health Insurance International (F-1) Students are strongly encouraged to carry a health insurance during their stay at EVC. Students have the freedom to choose their own health insurance provider, and please keep in mind that there are various levels of insurance coverage available. A few health insurance providers are listed below:

1. ISP International Student Protection • Tel: (877) 738-5785 • Website: https://www.intlstudentprotection.com

2. ISO Student Health Insurance • Tel: (800) 244-1180; • Website: https://www.isoa.org/

3. International Student Insurance • Toll free: (877) 758-4391; • Website: http://www.internationalstudentinsurance.com/student-health-insurance/

4. HTH Travel Insurance • Toll Free: (888) 243-2358 • Website: https://www.hthtravelinsurance.com/students_plans.cfm

Academic Life Life in the Classroom Most international students find the general atmosphere and culture of their classrooms to be very different than what they are familiar with. In general, most students find their classroom environment in the US to be far less formal than what they are used to in their home countries. Even though it might seem informal, it is important to remember that informal does not mean lenient. You are expected to fulfill all of the requirements of the course.

While it is not uncommon to take a course that employs a more traditional teacher-centered approach, one that utilizes lecture as the primary means of instruction (especially in more scientific disciplines) you’ll find that most courses in the US tend to utilize a more learner- centered approach. A learner-centered approach to teaching means that learning takes place through more cooperative and participatory means. Your participation in classroom discussion

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and debate is encouraged and you are expected to employ critical thinking when discussing the course’s topics. Your professors may randomly call on you in class to ask you a question or seek your input on the discussion. It is a good idea to always be prepared for class and actively participate in classroom discussions. No matter what, don’t be afraid to raise your hand and ask for clarification if there is something you don’t understand or want to ask about.

Academic Integrity Evergreen Valley College values academic integrity. Students are expected to complete and submit their own work. These values ensure that every student is graded fairly. Academic dishonesty is unethical and does not support student learning.

Two of the most common forms of academic dishonesty that international students encounter are plagiarism and cheating. These often occur as a result of cultural differences that shape these concepts. The following information should help you define exactly what they are and help you avoid cheating or plagiarizing during your academic career.

Plagiarism In the US, original ideas, knowledge and words are thought to be owned by the individual who created them. This means that if you choose to reproduce someone’s original ideas, knowledge or words in your academic work, you must give them credit by citing them in your work. Many international students have difficulty avoiding plagiarism because the educational system in their home countries values memorization and repetition of information in academic writing and exams. In the US, doing so without properly citing the source of the information is considered plagiarism and is in violation of Evergreen Valley College’s Standards of Student Conduct and Academic Standards. Sometimes defining plagiarism can be very difficult. More information about avoiding plagiarism and how to properly cite information in your academic work can be found at Purdue University’s Online Writing Lab: http://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/589/01/

Cheating In the US, cheating can refer to many practices but it most often refers to using unauthorized assistance or sources in academic work such as an exam or paper. This includes using the work of your fellow classmates or allowing someone else to use your work. For many international students who come from cultures where a more collectivistic mindset is valued and individualism and competition are discouraged, this can be a difficult concept to understand. In a more individualistic, learner-centered academic culture students are encouraged to express their own opinions free of the influence of others, including their friends and classmates.

Registration International student registration is highly restricted. Students are not permitted to register without prior approval and must complete the following procedure in order to register for any college course.

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1. Students must be in possession of an official F1 international student “Acceptance Letter” as proof that they have been fully admitted as an F1 international student.

2. Students must have an official “I-20 “document produced and signed by Evergreen Valley College.

3. Students must schedule and complete an assessment exam prior to meeting with a counselor in order to determine their placement in English, Math, or other courses for which they have not met prerequisites.

4. Students must have a current student “educational plan” on file. It must be signed by their academic counselor.

Once the above items have been completed, F1 international students should register in person by meeting with the Admissions and Records Coordinator. The International Student Program is available to help students facilitate the registration process with the Admissions and Records Coordinator prior to entry into the United States. F1 international students are restricted during their first year of study to enroll in any online or remote type coursework. Upon successful completion of 24 semester units at Evergreen Valley College, students may opt to concurrently enroll in a maximum of 6 units at an alternate nearby institution or enroll for 3 units of online coursework. Students must have prior approval from the Primary Designated School Official (PDSO) in order to register for any online course, or class not taken at Evergreen Valley College.

Registration English as a Second Language (ESL) F1 international students are not permitted to enroll into English as a Second Language (ESL) coursework. At this time, Evergreen Valley College is not authorized to host international language school students that have not adequately demonstrated English competency by virtue of a TOEFL test score. Students are strongly encouraged to schedule and complete the TOEFL exam prior to applying for admission to the International Programs & Services Office (IPS). Paying for Tuition

F1 international students are required to pay for tuition related expenses within thirty days of the start of each semester. The cost for international student’s tuition is calculated by multiplying the $199 per unit out of state non-resident fee by the number of registered units. In addition, international students pay the $46 per unit registration fee multiplied by the number of registered units. In most cases, the approximate average cost for tuition is $199 x 12 + $46 x 12 = $2940. Payment can be made by cash, credit card, money order or check. Students who fail to pay tuition will not be allowed to register and may be dropped from their courses, resulting in immediate notification to the USCIS.

Employment on/off Campus

Employment as an F1 international student is currently restricted to employment on campus. Typically, students must complete a minimum of 24 semester units in order to request authorization to secure part time employment on campus. Students should contact the Primary Designated School Official (PDSO) prior to seeking employment authorization.

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International Student Athletes Students admitted to Evergreen Valley College as an F1 international student may opt to participate in intercollegiate sports. As an international student athlete, students are expected to enroll each semester in a minimum of twelve (12) units. This requirement not only maintains a student’s status with SEVIS, but fulfills the requirement to participate in intercollegiate sports. Failure to comply with the enrollment requirements throughout each of the primary semesters (fall and spring), will result in an immediate termination of a student’s F1 Visa. As a student athlete, there is no guarantee that students will see playing time in their respective intercollegiate sport. The admittance of an international student is for academic purposes and is in no way dependent on their status as a student athlete. If a student ultimately decides to no longer participate in intercollegiate sports, their obligation as an F1 international student will still be in effect.

Summer/Winter Travel Based on the guidelines set forth by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), students are permitted to travel during the winter and summer months. These periods are considered non mandatory enrollment periods for F1 international students. The time period for winter travel typically begins in late December and ends in late January. Summer travel is permitted in late May and must be completed by late August. F1 international students are required to meet with the Primary Designated School Official (PDSO) prior to departing the United States. Failure to do so may jeopardize the student’s visa status or result in a denial of re- entry.

Banking Choosing the Right Bank When you arrive in the United States, you will want to open a bank account. There are several banks with locations near campus. Please note, Evergreen Valley College does not endorse any of the following banks; selecting a bank is your decision.

1. Wells Fargo • Silver Creek, 4888 San Felipe Rd, Suite 1, San Jose, CA 95135 • Tel: 408.238.7458; https://www.wellsfargo.com/

2. Bank of America (please verify) • The Villages, 2933 the Villages Pky, San Jose, CA 95135 • Tel: 408.223.5591; https://www.bankofamerica.com/

3. Citibank • 2189 Quimby Road, San Jose, CA 95122 • Tel: 408.600.0090; https://online.citibank.com/US

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Opening an Account To open an account is very simple, you only need to show your passport and a certain amount of money!

Q & A In general, most banks offer similar services with just a few slight differences. When you select a bank, it is important to choose one that fits your needs. Be sure to take the time to learn about the difference in rates and fees at each bank. When selecting a bank you will want to find out answers to the following questions. With each question, we provide some general guidance; but also give specific answer from Bank of America (BOA) for your information.

How much is the international transfer fee if I am to wire some money from my home country to a bank in the U.S.? Every bank charges a fee for international transfer, depending on the bank, this fee varies. BOA: The fee is $16, and is waived on some accounts*.

What does my bank do to protect me from identity theft and what are their policies about identity theft? Unfortunately identity theft, or the act of stealing someone’s personal information, does happen. Most banks offer protections against identity theft. You’ll want to find out what a prospective bank does to help protect you from identity theft. Additionally it’s important to know what their policies are if identity theft occur. BOA: If your card is lost or stolen, Bank of America credits you back for any fraudulent card transactions

What is the minimum amount of money I must deposit to open up my account and how can I make the first deposit? Some banks require you to deposit a certain amount of money in order to open your account. Though most will accept cash deposits, it is generally not advisable to carry large sum of money. You will want to make sure you will be able to make a deposit via wire transfer or check from a foreign bank. BOA: $25, by cash, check, or wire transfer.

What is the minimum amount I am required to keep in my checking or savings account at all times? Most banks require that you keep a minimum account in your account at all times. Falling below that amount will result in being charged additional fees as a penalty. Be sure to find out how much you will be required to have in your account at all times before opening it. BOA: $0. Our student accounts does not require a minimum amount.

What is the fee for using an Automated Teller Machine (ATM)? Most banks do not charge you a fee for withdrawing money from your account if you use their ATM’s. However, most do charge you a fee for withdrawing money from your account using another bank’s ATM. Be sure to find out how much you will be charged if you need to use another bank’s ATM to withdraw money.

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BOA: No fees for using Bank of America ATM. Fees may apply if you use a non-Bank of America ATM (usually $2.5 each transaction), and is waived on some accounts.

Will I be charged annual or monthly fees? Some banks charge you monthly or annual fees to have an account. Be sure to find out how much you will be charged for your checking or savings accounts. BOA: No fees on student accounts.

What is the bank’s overdraft policy? Some banks charge you a fee if you write a check or make a payment with money that is not in your account. You could be charged for each payment that is an overdraft, daily or even both. Be sure to find out what the bank’s policy is. BOA: We charge you overdraft fee if you go below $0 on checks and automatic payments. We do not charge overdraft fee on debit card purchases.

How much will my checks cost? Not all banks provide checks for free. If you need checks to pay bills, you will want to find out how much your bank will charge you to provide you with checks to use. BOA: Prices vary depending on your order. Checks are waived on some accounts.

*: Fees are waived depending on the balances in their account. For example, 10K or more balances will waive their check orders, 50K or more will waive incoming international wire transfers, non-BOA ATM fees, etc.

Cell Phones Acquiring wireless service (other than pre-paid) in the US requires a credit application. You will need to provide a valid photo ID (passport or driver’s license), your date of birth, local address and a Social Security number. You do not have to provide an actual Social Security card, just the number. If you do not have a Social Security number you can still sign up for service with a deposit. The following is a list of service providers:

AT&T: http://www.wireless.att.com Sprint: http://www.sprint.com

T Mobile: http://www.t-mobile.com/ Verizon Wireless: http://www.verizonwireless.com

For more information and phone purchasing please stop by the RadioShack at the corner of San Felipe and Yerba Buena Roads. RadioShack: 4878 San Felipe Rd, San Jose, CA 95135

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Directions How to Get to Campus US-101 S toward Los Angeles

1. US-101 S toward Los Angeles 2. Take the Capital Expwy/Yerba Buena Rd exit 3. Take the Capital Expwy/Yerba Buena Rd ramp 4. Take the Yerba Buena Rd ramp 5. Turn left onto Yerba Buena Rd

• For Yerba Buena Road entry, past San Felipe Road about ½ mile, turn left into the Evergreen Valley College driveway

• For San Felipe Road entry, turn left on San Felipe Road, turn right onto Paseo de Arboles Road

US-101North toward San Jose

1. US-101 N toward San Jose 2. Take the Yerba Buena Road exit 3. Turn left on Yerba Buena Road

• For Yerba Buena Road entry, past San Felipe Road about ½ mile, turn left into the Evergreen Valley College driveway

• For San Felipe Road entry, turn left on San Felipe Road, turn right onto Paseo de Arboles Road

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Campus Safety Evacuation map

Parking Fees All student-parking permits may be purchased via https://myweb.sjeccd.edu/ and not the Bookstore. Day and night permits, $45.00; motorcycle (required), $15.00; daily parking tickets, $3.00 per day. Paid parking is enforced Monday through Saturday. A parking permit does not guarantee a parking space; it merely gives the student the convenience of not buying daily permits.

Driving If you wish to apply for a California driver’s license you will need to complete the following steps.

1. Visit the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). You can visit any location during business hours but for faster services, appointments can be made online at http://www.dmv.ca.gov. A list of local DMV offices is provided below.

2. Apply for the driver’s license and submit the following documents: • Either your Social Security number OR your I-20 and passport. You do not need a

Social Security number to obtain a driver’s license.

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• Important. If you do not have a Social Security number tell the DMV that you “are not eligible” for a Social Security number. They will then verify your legal status using your I-20 and passport as well as by verifying that your SEVIS record is “active.” Your SEVIS record should be active within 30 days of presenting your immigration documents to the International Programs & Services Office. In general, it is best to wait 30 days after your International Student Orientation session at Evergreen Valley College.

3. Pass a vision test. This test is administered at the DMV during your appointment.

4. Pay the $33 application fee.

5. Pass a written test. There are 36 questions on the test and you are given 3 opportunities to

pass. • The DMV offers free, online practice-exams on their website at

http://dmv.ca.gov/pubs/interactive/tdrive/exam.htm. You will be applying for the Regular Driver (Class C License)

• The Driver’s License Handbook is available in PDF form on the DMVʼs website at http://www.dmv.ca.gov/pubs/pubs.htm

6. Pass a behind the wheel driving test. This test requires a separate appointment, which can be made here: http://www.dmv.ca.gov/foa/welcome.do?localeName=en

DMV Locations 1. San Jose: 111 W Alma Ave, San Jose, CA 95110 2. Santa Clara: 3665 Flora Vista Ave, Santa Clara, CA 93051 3. Los Gatos: 600 N Santa Cruz Ave, Los Gatos, CA 95030

All DMV offices share the same number and working hours shown below:

• Tel: (800) 777-0133 • Working Hours: Mon, Tue, Thur and Fri – 8-5, Wed – 9-5

Acknowledgement We would like to thank the International Student Services (ISS) at Santa Clara University for sharing their ideas and information on their Pre-Arrival Handbook.

Appendices 1. Campus Map

2. Conversion

3. Wells Fargo’s Answers to Banking Q&A

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1. Our campus is currently undergoing internal and external renovation - Please excuse our dust while we are working on improving our campus

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2. Conversion

3. Wells Fargo’s Answers to Banking Q&A Choosing the Right Bank In general, most banks offer similar services with just a few slight differences. When you select a bank, it is important to choose one that fits your needs. Be sure to take the time to learn about the difference in rates and fees at each bank. When selecting a bank you will want to find out answers to the following questions. With each question, apart from giving you some general guidance, we also provide specific answers from Wells Fargo.

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How much is the international transfer fee if I am to wire some money from my home country to a bank in the U.S.? Wells Fargo: Incoming international U.S./Foreign currency $16

What does my bank do to protect me from identity theft and what are their policies about identity theft? Unfortunately identity theft, or the act of stealing someone’s personal information, does happen. Most banks offer protections against identity theft. You’ll want to find out what a prospective bank does to help protect you from identity theft. Additionally it’s important to know what their policies are if identity theft occur.

Wells Fargo: If you believe you are a victim of identity theft, report it immediately as instructed below.

• Contact Wells Fargo - Call us immediately at 1-800-869-3557

Wells Fargo’s optional identity theft protection plans can help you monitor your credit and check daily for inaccuracies that could indicate identity theft. They can help you detect suspicious changes to your credit, such as unauthorized account openings.

Here are some other helpful tips:

How to Protect Yourself

Fraud Prevention Tips

• You are not responsible for unauthorized debit card purchases or ATM transactions when you report them promptly.

• You are responsible for protecting your password and account information by: o Not disclosing your personal account information to others (including your ATM

PIN, online username, and password), and o Promptly reporting incidents of unauthorized account access or use by calling 1-

800-956-4442 within 60 calendar days after the date we send you the account statement showing that unauthorized activity. Our representatives are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to assist you.

• You must also cooperate with our claims representatives, and comply with our requests and procedures, during the processing of your claim. It’s a good idea to start a written record on the date that you file a claim, and make notes regarding any subsequent phone calls or correspondence.

• The Wells Fargo Identity Theft Repair Kit (PDF) provides worksheets and tips for resolving identity theft.

What is the minimum amount of money I must deposit to open up my account and how can I make the first deposit?

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Some banks require you to deposit a certain amount of money in order to open your account. Though most will accept cash deposits, it is generally not advisable to carry large sum of money. You will want to make sure you will be able to make a deposit via wire transfer or check from a foreign bank.

Wells Fargo: Minimum opening deposit for most accounts is $50, you can find information about the account options available at wellsfargo.com. There is also information about our College Combo® account – which includes a checking and savings account and is a good choice for students who want to manage their money anytime, anywhere.

What is the minimum amount I am required to keep in my checking or savings account at all times? Most banks require that you keep a minimum amount in your account at all times. Falling below that amount will result in being charged additional fees as a penalty. Be sure to find out how much you will be required to have in your account at all times before opening it.

Wells Fargo: You must keep money in your account but there is no minimum amount required to maintain your account. However, if your account balance falls below the minimum for the plan you have selected you may be charged a monthly service fee.

Will I be charged annual or monthly fees? Some banks charge you monthly or annual fees to have an account. Be sure to find out how much you will be charged for your checking or savings accounts.

Wells Fargo: The minimum balance in your account to waive monthly service fees at Wells Fargo varies based on the plan you choose when you open your account. As an example, with the Wells Fargo College Checking® you can:

Waive the $3 monthly service fee on your Wells Fargo College Checking account when you open it as a complete package (College Combo® opened online includes a Wells Fargo College Checking account, Wells Fargo Way2Save ® Savings account, Online Banking with Bill Pay, and a debit card.) and:

• Maintain $500 minimum daily balance, OR • Enroll in direct deposit - A qualifying direct deposit is a direct deposit of your salary,

pension, Social Security, or other regular monthly income of $25 or more per deposit electronically deposited to your account by your employer or an outside agency. Transfers from one account to another, or deposits made at a banking location or ATM, do not qualify as a direct deposit.

What is the fee for using an Automated Teller Machine (ATM)? Most banks do not charge you a fee for withdrawing money from your account if you use their ATM’s. However, most do charge you a fee for withdrawing money from your account using another bank’s ATM. Be sure to find out how much you will be charged if you need to use another bank’s ATM to withdraw money.

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Wells Fargo:

Cash withdrawals at Wells Fargo ATMs $0 Cash withdrawals at non-Wells Fargo ATMs in the U.S.

$2.50 per withdrawal Note: Fees charged by non-Wells Fargo ATM owner/operator apply (unless waived by terms of your account)

Cash withdrawals at non-Wells Fargo ATMs outside of the U.S.

$5 per withdrawal Note: Fees charged by non-Wells Fargo ATM owner/operator apply (unless waived by terms of your account)

What is the bank’s overdraft policy? Some banks charge you a fee if you write a check or make a payment with money that is not in your account. You could be charged for each payment that is an overdraft, daily or even both.

Wells Fargo: An overdraft occurs when money is withdrawn or transactions (checks, debit card purchases, electronic funds transfer, etc.) are paid from a checking account and the available balance goes below zero. When this occurs you will be charge a fee of $35.

Wells Fargo’s checking account overdraft services are a good way to help make sure that your transactions are covered.

How much will my checks cost? Not all banks provide checks for free. If you need checks to pay bills, you will want to find out how much your bank will charge you to provide you with checks to use. Wells Fargo: We charge $20 for basic check orders, however, as part of our welcome package to the students at Evergreen Valley College, when you open your new account at our office located at 191 Branham Ln, San Jose, we will waive the fee for the first check order (approximately 120 checks provided in the order). In addition, students may use our Online Bill Pay service to pay bills. Bill Pay is quicker and easier than writing and mailing paper checks. You may pay any company or individual in the U.S. that you'd normally pay by check with our Bill Pay service. You can also use Mobile Bill Pay on-the-go to pay bills, view or cancel pending payments. Bill Pay is free of monthly service fees if you have an eligible checking account. Take a tour of Bill Pay, read more about how it works, or ask your local banker for a demonstration.