Students walking up to Carlton Union building

Planning for Stetson

We are delighted that you are interested in studying at Stetson University, located in DeLand, Florida! Studying in another country is one of the most exciting and rewarding opportunities available to you as part of your academic career. Your time at Stetson University will be not only a journey of new worlds and cultures, but also a journey of self-exploration and self-discovery. The time you spend abroad will help define who you are as an individual, and we want to ensure that you get the most out of your experience during your time in DeLand.

Planning your study abroad experience is a thrilling experience in and of itself as you look forward to future endeavors; however, it is important that you are well-prepared. Please carefully review the travel and safety details we have provided to help you along the way, as well as information on what to do once you get here.

Stetson University estimates that an international student should expect to spend at least $1,500 for personal expenses and $1,200 for books, study materials and supplies per semester at Stetson University. Additional funds will be required to travel around the United States during vacation periods.  

Stetson University's accommodations are all-inclusive, in that all students from various places, spaces and backgrounds have the opportunity to live together and reside together. However, there are also certain residence halls that are pet-friendly, gender-neutral, and/or gender-specific.

All entering incoming new students are guaranteed housing. Please visit the Stetson’s Housing and Residential Living & Learning page to learn more about your accommodation options.

Living on campus you can purchase a meal plan, as room and board are consolidated on one contract. See the Dining Services page for details, including cost, for available meal plans. The main cafeteria is located in the Carlton Union Building (commonly called the "CUB"), located at the center of campus. You can also use your meals at the university's other dining facilities, which include the Coffee Shop, and the Hat Rack, which includes Einstein's Bagels and BYOB: Build Your Own Burrito. The bookstore, also located in the CUB, sells snacks, meals to preheat, and other pantry goods.

Plan on wearing very light clothing upon arrival in Florida during August. The summer daily temperature is usually between 80 and 100 degrees Fahrenheit (27 to 38 degrees Celsius). Most students wear shorts, t-shirts, sandals and sunglasses during the hot days. Good walking shoes are always recommended because of Stetson University's pedestrian campus.

The autumn months are warm, but cooler in October and November. The weather in December through March is typically colder and you will need warm clothing (sweaters, coats, etc.) The lowest temperatures DeLand experiences in the winter are typically right around freezing (32 degrees Fahrenheit or zero degrees Celsius). Temperatures generally stay between 50 and 65 degrees Fahrenheit (10 to 18 degrees Celsius), which for most people means a medium weight jacket and jeans. Most students and local residents wear sandals year-round.

It warms up again in the spring months, reaching 80 degrees Fahrenheit (27 degrees Celsius) by April.

After you are assigned a post office box number, you can receive mail in your own name. For delivery of large packages or luggage you wish to ship in advance, use our street address (which can be found in the "Contact" box on this page). Students usually carry all the luggage they need and buy items here as needed.

Go for it! Florida is on the eastern side of the United States, so students often travel north or south along the coastline during breaks. Students frequently enjoy the beaches all along Florida or even go up north to sight-see. Some students even return home during the holidays. Students often stay with roommates or friends over holidays as well. If you plan to travel internationally during your breaks, make sure your I-20 or DS-2019 has been signed by a DSO/RO in the WORLD Center! 

You are permitted to work on the Stetson University campus during your stay here. Campus jobs include office and cafeteria work; sometimes even a bit of tutoring. Office jobs typically require typing. Interested students should refer to the Student Employment Program's website for more information. Students are eligible to work up to 20 hours per week, at an hourly rate, on campus during the academic year. 

Studying abroad can be a fun and safe experience, but it is important to realize that you are subject to the laws and customs of another country.

Although most trips abroad are trouble-free, being prepared will help you to avoid the possibility of serious trouble. Become familiar with the basic laws and customs of the United States before you travel. Remember: Reckless behavior while in the United States can do more than ruin your experience, it can land you in jail! To have a safe trip, avoid risky behavior and plan ahead.

In addition to the information we make available to you online after you are admitted to the university, it is critical that you arrive in DeLand to attend the International Student Orientation. Attendance is mandatory and will ensure you have information on the U.S., Stetson University and life in DeLand -- all to keep you safe, as well as aid in your transition to Stetson University and life in the U.S.