Welcome to East Tennessee State University!
We are thrilled to welcome you to East Tennessee State University and the start of an exciting journey! We know that moving to a new country is a big step, and we're here to make your transition to campus as smooth and enjoyable as possible. This website provides all the essential information you need to plan your arrival, including expected arrival dates, airport details, housing options, and more!
Please use this website as a guide to help you plan your arrival and hopefully settle in comfortable and confidently to your life as part of the ETSU community of scholars. We can't wait to see you on campus and support you in making ETSU your home away from home.
Expected Arrival Dates
All international students are expected to arrive in Johnson City by the dates listed below. Arriving by these dates allows you to settle in, adjust to your new surroundings, and fully participate in New Student Orientation and the other activities designed to support your transition to life at ETSU.
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What if I can't arrive by these dates?
We understand that unexpected circumstances may delay your arrival. However, it's very important for students to arrive within the suggested timeframe to participate in orientation and complete the necessary steps before classes begin. Here's what to do if you cannot arrive by the recommended dates:
1) Consider deferring your admission to a future semester. Deferring allows you to start your studies at a time when you can fully participate in orientation and enjoy the resources available to new students.
2) In exceptional cases, we may consider late arrival requests. Late arrivals are typically only granted in situations with valid documentation and approval from ETSU. If you believe your case qualifies, please contact International Enrollment and Services as soon as possible for guidance.
Airport Details
Tri-Cities Regional Airport (TRI)
To make your journey as smooth as possible, we recommend flying into Tri-Cities Regional Airport (TRI), the closest airport to East Tennessee State University. Located just 20 minutes from the ETSU campus, Tri-Cities Regional Airport is the most convenient option for international students. TRI offers regular flights from major U.S. airports (Charlotte, Atlanta, and Dallas), making it an accessible and straightforward choice for arrival.
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Other Nearby Airports
While Tri-Cities Regional Airport is the closest option, there are also major airports nearby if you need other travel options. These options include:
McGehee Tyson Airport (TYS): Located in Knoxville, TN. Approximately 1.5 hours drive by car.
Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT): Approximately 3 hours drive by car.
Nashville International Airport (BNA): Approximately 4.5 hours drive by car.
If you're arriving from outside the U.S., booking a connecting flight to TRI after arriving in the U.S. can make your travel to campus easier and reduce additional transportation arrangements. Please note that ETSU cannot provide airport pick-ups if you choose to arrive at one of these other airport options.
Housing Options
On-Campus Housing
Living on-campus at ETSU provides a convenient, immersive experience where you’re just steps away from classrooms, libraries, dining facilities, and campus events. Our residence halls offer a supportive community, allowing you to meet other students and build friendships from day one. We encourage you to apply for housing as soon as possible, as spaces fill up quickly. Securing on-campus housing early ensures you’ll have a comfortable, accessible place to live as you begin your journey at ETSU.
Off-Campus Housing
If you prefer living off-campus, Johnson City offers a variety of housing options, including apartments, houses, and shared accommodations near ETSU. Off-campus living can provide additional privacy and flexibility, and many are located within a short commute to campus. We recommend starting your search early, as housing in the area fills up quickly, especially before the start of each semester.
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What if I can't secure housing before I arrive at ETSU?
If you have not secured housing in Johnson City prior to leaving your home country, we strongly recommend that you consider deferring your admission to a future semester. Finding suitable accommodation upon arrival can be extremely challenging and sometimes not possible. This may impact your ability to focus on your studies and settle into your new environment at ETSU. Ensuring you have a safe and comfortable place to stay before you travel is essential for your success.