Practical Information

• Public Transportation (SEPTA)
  Use SEPTA to plan train, bus, and regional rail travel in the Philadelphia area.

• Pennsylvania Photo ID / Driver Services
  Students who need information about obtaining a Pennsylvania photo ID can visit the official Pennsylvania government page.

• ISIC Student ID / Discounts
  Students may wish to explore the ISIC card for student identity and discount opportunities. ISIC currently brands itself as the International Student Identity Card.

• Opening a U.S. Bank Account

  International students studying at American Language Center may wish to open a U.S. bank account to manage daily expenses, pay tuition, and avoid international transaction fees.

  Many banks in the United States allow F-1 students to open accounts, even if the student does not yet have a Social Security Number.

  • Documents You May Need

    When visiting a bank, bring the following documents:

    • Passport

    • F-1 visa

    • Form I-20

    • I-94 record (printed from https://i94.cbp.dhs.gov/)

    • Proof of U.S. address (such as a lease agreement or official mail)

    • Social Security Number (SSN) if you have one

    If you do not have a Social Security Number, many banks will allow you to open an account using your passport and immigration documents.

    Types of Accounts

    Most students open a checking account, which allows you to:

    • deposit money

    • pay bills

    • use a debit card

    • withdraw cash from ATMs

    Some students may also open a savings account to store additional funds.

    Choosing a Bank

    When selecting a bank, students may wish to compare:

    • monthly account fees

    • minimum balance requirements

    • ATM access

    • online banking options

    • international wire transfer services

    Many students choose banks that have branches near their residence or near public transportation.

    Helpful Tip

    When opening an account, ask the bank about:

    • international wire transfers

    • mobile banking apps

    • ATM fees

    • student accounts with reduced fees

    These features can make managing finances in the United States easier.

  • Good idea. International students frequently misunderstand tipping in the U.S., and it can create uncomfortable situations. A short explanation on your Student Resources page will genuinely help them.

    Below is a clear, practical section you can add.

• Health Insurance

  Students are encouraged to purchase health insurance. The cost ranges from $600 up to $2,400 a year. Please contact school office for details.

Understanding Tipping in the United States

In the United States, tipping is a common way to thank service workers for good service. In many service jobs, workers receive lower hourly wages and rely on tips as part of their income.

International students may find tipping practices different from those in their home countries.

Restaurants

In restaurants where a server brings food to your table, it is customary to leave a tip.

Typical tip amounts:

• 15% – 20% of the total bill for good service
• 10% – 15% for basic service
• 20% or more for excellent service

The tip is usually calculated based on the pre-tax amount of the bill.

Many restaurants allow you to add the tip when paying with a credit or debit card.

Takeout and Counter Service

For takeout orders or counter service, tipping is optional, but some people leave a small tip such as:

• $1 – $3, or
• about 10%

Coffee Shops

Customers often leave $1 or small change in a tip jar, though this is optional.

Food Delivery

For delivery services (pizza, Uber Eats, DoorDash, etc.), tipping is common.

Typical tips:

• 10% – 20% of the order, or
• $3 – $5 minimum

Taxis and Rideshare (Uber / Lyft)

It is common to tip 10% – 20% of the fare.

Many rideshare apps allow you to add the tip in the app after the ride.

Hotels

Typical tipping practices include:

• $2 – $5 per day for housekeeping
• $1 – $2 per bag for luggage assistance

Important Tip

Tipping is generally not required in places such as:

• retail stores
• supermarkets
• self-service restaurants

However, some businesses may provide a tip option on payment screens.

Cultural Note

Tipping is considered a normal and expected part of service culture in the United States. Leaving a tip is a way to show appreciation for good service.