Welcome to the Myrtle Beach International Student Online Guide for J-1 students visiting the Grand Strand area!
This site will provide you with important information about housing, employment, transportation, safety, and fun things to do around the city. Please carefully read this website and follow the information provided to ensure that you will have a safe and fun summer!
2025 Orientation Dates
Myrtle Beach
- Midtown Vineyard Church
504 27th Ave. N.
Myrtle Beach, SC - Spring Orientation Dates & Times
Wednesday orientations begin at 10 a.m.
February 12th, 19th and 26th - Summer Orientation Dates & Times
Wednesday orientations begin at 10 a.m.
May 14th, 21st and 28th
June 4th, 11th, 18th and 25th - All Nations Cafe
Midtown Vineyard Church
504 27th Ave. N.
Mondays 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. (February 17th – March 31st)
North Myrtle Beach
- J. Bryan Floyd Recreation Center
1030 Possum Trot Road
North Myrtle Beach, SC - Spring Orientation Dates & Times
Thursday orientations begin at 10 a.m.
February 20th and 27th - All Nations Cafe
More information coming soon.
For more information visit BridgeToTheNationsMB.com
Orientations include: Welcome from city liaisons, applying for social security, T-Mobile sim cards and phones on site, applications to open a bank account at PNC Bank, Coast RTA-bus routes, bicycle, and scooter safety – Bicycle and Pedestrian Committee, City safety – MBPB, Emergency cards with 24-hour contact number, Free bicycle raffle-complete with lights, helmet, bike lock.
NOTICE TO J1 STUDENTS FROM THE MB POLICE DEPARTMENT:
We wanted to make you aware that it is illegal for local citizens to charge you to transport you in their private vehicles. All drivers must have certificates and chauffeur’s permits to drive students from place to place. It is our recommendation to take a taxi cab or bus. Please be cautious when looking for secondary employment advertised on websites! You need to work with your sponsors to gain your secondary employment the right way.
What To Do First
Register your United States address in the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVIS). You must register within 10 days of arriving in the United States. Failure to register will result in the cancellation of your visa.
- Contact your employer and sponsor.
- Call your family and friends.
- Find Housing (see Housing page).
- Apply for your Social Security card.
Social Security will no longer process walk in applications at the Social Security office.
Applications for Social Security cards are by appointment only. - Get a bank account.
Sponsor Contact Information
List of Sponsors & Contact Information – Select “Summer Work Travel” in Program dropdown