BYU draws students from over 100 countries, and UVU's international student population is growing. If you're arriving in Provo from another country, you're joining a community that — despite its reputation for homogeneity — actually has more global diversity than most outsiders expect. Over 60% of BYU students speak a second language, and the returned missionary population brings firsthand experience from dozens of countries.
That said, the cultural adjustment is real. Provo is not New York, London, or even Salt Lake City. This guide covers what to expect and how to navigate it.
The Cultural Adjustment
What Surprises Most International Students
The LDS influence is pervasive. If you're attending BYU, the religious context is explicit — the Honor Code, devotionals, and ward system are central to daily life. If you're at UVU, the influence is more ambient — it shapes the community's values, schedules (many businesses close on Sundays), and social norms without being formally imposed.
The friendliness is genuine but can feel surface-level. Americans in general and Provo residents specifically are very friendly in casual interactions. People will smile, say hello, and make small talk. Building deeper friendships takes longer than the initial warmth suggests — this is not unique to Provo but can be confusing for students from cultures where social warmth implies deeper connection.
The food is different. If you're coming from a country with strong culinary traditions, Provo's food scene will feel limited — particularly for specific regional cuisines. The Asian Market in Orem and Rancho Markets help for home cooking, and the restaurant scene is improving, but managing food expectations is part of the adjustment. See our Best Chinese & Asian Food and Best Indian Food guides.
Alcohol is hard to find. Utah has restrictive alcohol laws, and Provo — with its LDS majority — takes this further. Beer is available at grocery stores (limited to 5% ABV), and the state liquor store in Orem handles wine and spirits. There are no bars in Provo. If social drinking is part of your culture, this requires adjustment.
The car dependency is real. Provo is more walkable than most American cities near campus, but everything beyond the immediate university area requires a car, bike, or bus. Public transit exists but is less frequent and comprehensive than what most international students are accustomed to. See our FrontRunner Guide.
Practical Logistics
Housing
International students at BYU follow the same housing requirements as domestic students — approved housing for the first two semesters. UVU students have no housing requirements. Start your housing search early and read our Best Apartments Near BYU guide.
Tip: Many international students prefer to live with other international students for cultural comfort, but mixing with American roommates accelerates your English improvement and cultural integration. Both approaches are valid.
Banking
Open a US bank account as soon as possible. Most banks near campus (Wells Fargo, Chase, Mountain America Credit Union) are accustomed to international student applications. You'll need your passport, I-20 form (for F-1 visa holders), and a local address.
Phone
Getting a US phone number is essential. Prepaid plans from T-Mobile, Mint Mobile, or Google Fi are popular with international students — no credit check required, and many include international calling options.
Health Insurance
Health insurance is required for international students at both BYU and UVU. BYU provides a student health plan; UVU requires proof of coverage. The US healthcare system is expensive — don't skip insurance, and use the student health center for basic medical needs to keep costs manageable.
Driving
If you plan to drive, you'll need a Utah driver's license. Some countries' licenses can be converted; others require you to take the Utah driving test. Check with the Utah DMV for your country's specific requirements.
Building a Social Life
At BYU
International Student Services provides orientation, cultural events, and support specifically for international students. Use these resources — they're designed to help you navigate exactly the challenges you're facing.
Ward activities function the same for international students as for everyone else. Your ward is your built-in community. International students who engage with their ward consistently report stronger social connections than those who don't.
Cultural clubs at BYU represent many nationalities and regions. These clubs host events, celebrations, and social gatherings that connect you with students from your home country while also introducing you to the broader BYU community.
Language partnerships — your fluency in another language is an asset at BYU. Many American students (especially returned missionaries) want to maintain the language they learned on their mission. Language exchange partnerships are a natural way to build friendships.
At UVU
UVU's International Student Services office provides similar support. The commuter campus culture makes social connection harder — be intentional about joining clubs, study groups, and campus activities.
Beyond Campus
International food stores — the Asian Market, Rancho Markets, and Indian grocery stores are places where you'll find familiar ingredients and often meet people from your home region.
Community cultural events — Utah Valley hosts cultural festivals, international food events, and community gatherings throughout the year. Follow Explore Utah Valley and local event calendars.
Managing Homesickness
Homesickness is normal and almost universal among international students. A few things that help:
Maintain routines from home. Cook familiar food, observe your cultural holidays, stay connected with family through regular calls. These anchors provide continuity during the adjustment.
Build local connections. The students who struggle most with homesickness are often the ones who isolate themselves. Even when it's hard, keep showing up to social activities. See our Making Friends in Provo guide.
Use campus counseling. BYU's CAPS and UVU's counseling services are free, confidential, and experienced with international student adjustment issues.
Explore Utah. The natural landscape is genuinely stunning and unlike most places in the world. Hiking, skiing, visiting national parks — these experiences are unique to your time in Utah and can transform homesickness into appreciation for where you are.
Working as an International Student
F-1 visa holders can work on campus up to 20 hours/week during the academic year. Off-campus work requires CPT or OPT authorization through your international student office. Don't work illegally — it jeopardizes your visa status and isn't worth the risk.
On-campus jobs are available and plentiful — see our Student Jobs Guide. Your international experience and language skills are assets in many campus positions.
Related Guides
- The Complete BYU Student Guide
- UVU Student Guide
- Making Friends in Provo
- Eating on a Student Budget
- Best Apartments Near BYU
- FrontRunner & Commuting Guide
Last updated: April 2026. Visa regulations and university policies change — verify current requirements with your international student office.