Discover Your Life in the U.S. and Vibrant Lynchburg!
Welcome to the University of Lynchburg! As an international student, you're joining a supportive and welcoming community where you can pursue your passions and build a life you love. We're thrilled to help you thrive, both on campus and in our dynamic city of Lynchburg, Virginia. This page will guide you through essential aspects of living in the U.S. and making Lynchburg your home away from home.
Discover Local Lynchburg Attractions
- Explore 12 parks, 24 playgrounds, and numerous sports facilities for outdoor fun.
- Hike scenic trails in the Blue Ridge Mountains or along the famous Appalachian Trail.
- Enjoy swimming and boating at Smith Mountain Lake.
- Experience minor-league baseball games.
- Wonderful places to eat.
- Check out the city's website for more on upcoming events.
Getting Around Lynchburg:
- Public transportation is available through the GLTC bus line, with convenient stops near the University’s main entrance.
- Bus passes can be purchased at a low cost at the Solutions Center in Drysdale Student Center by showing your University ID.
- Taxi services like Hill City Cab Co. and LYH Taxi, as well as ride-sharing options like Uber and Lyft, are also available.
- We recommend planning your arrival on our specified dates to take advantage of free transportation from Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) or pick-up from the Lynchburg Regional Airport (LYH), Amtrak station, or Greyhound bus station. Be sure to attend a pre-arrival orientation for these dates.
Ready to explore Lynchburg? Visit the city’s website to plan your adventures!

Your Guide to Shopping and Groceries
Finding familiar items and exploring new tastes is part of settling into a new place. Lynchburg offers a variety of shopping options to meet your needs.
General Shopping:
- River Ridge Mall features major department stores, clothing retailers, a food court, and more.
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Grocery Stores:
- You’ll find many standard grocery stores for your everyday needs.
International Grocery Stores:
For a taste of home and to find specific ingredients, explore these local international grocery stores:
- Tienda Xpress: 18243 Forest Road, Suite 7
- Super Latina Elizabeth: 7701 Timberlake Road, Suite 1200
- 99 Cents Store & Oriental Grocery: 21556 Timberlake Road
- Taste of India Grocery: 2100 12th Street

The International Student Support team may also organize trips to these stores throughout the semester. Craving international flavors? Check out our “International Cuisine” section below for restaurant recommendations!
Savoring Global Flavors: International Cuisine
Feeling homesick or craving a taste of something new? Lynchburg offers several options for international cuisine:
- Explore local restaurants featuring diverse culinary traditions. Check online for current options and reviews.
Our local international grocery stores (listed above) can also provide you with the ingredients to cook your favorite international dishes at home. Ready for a culinary adventure? Explore the diverse food scene in Lynchburg!
Go-To Resources for Living in the U.S.
Get involved and build your Lynchburg family:
Staying Connected: Cell Phone Options in the U.S.
Having a reliable way to communicate is essential. Here’s some advice on getting a U.S. phone number:
- Check your phone’s compatibility with U.S. carriers. Some international phones may not work on all networks.
- Consider major U.S. carriers such as Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile. You can research their plans and coverage online.
- Prepaid plans can be a flexible option, allowing you to pay in advance without a long-term contract.
- You might also find information and suggestions on cell phone plans from resources like Sprintax and Stilt.
Need help figuring out your phone options? Contact International Student Support for guidance.
Managing Your Finances: Banking in the U.S.
Setting up a bank account can simplify your financial transactions in the U.S.
- The University has an on-campus credit union located on the 2nd floor of Drysdale.
- We also recommend Bank of America and Wells Fargo, which have local branches.
- You can find more detailed information about banking options under the “Financial Facts” section within “Life at University of Lynchburg”.
Getting Your Virginia Driver's License
If you plan to drive in Virginia, here’s what you need to know:
- Full-time international students who are not employed can drive with a valid driver’s license from their home country for up to six months. This doesn’t apply to commercial drivers.
- If you become employed or register a car in Virginia, you must obtain a Virginia driver’s license within 60 days.
- The Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is located at 3236 Odd Fellows Road, Lynchburg, VA 24501.
- Visit the Virginia DMV website for information on eligibility requirements for non-residents and first-time drivers.
- If you hold a driver’s license from Canada, France, Germany, South Korea, Taiwan (knowledge test required), or Japan, you may be able to skip certain steps. Check the DMV website for specific instructions.
Planning to drive? Visit the Virginia DMV website for complete licensing information.
Tips for Cultural Adjustment
- Engage with International Student Support Services for guidance and programs.
- Participate in International Student Orientation to connect with other students and learn about campus life.
- Join clubs and organizations, including the International Student Society and Hispanic Student Society, to connect with peers who share your interests.
- Consider the Ambassador Program to connect with current international students.
Explore Nearby Cities
Lynchburg’s central location makes it easy to explore other interesting cities in Virginia:
- Charlottesville
- Roanoke
- Richmond
Important Contacts
- A list of embassies in the U.S. is available for your reference.
Navigating life in a new country? Our International Student Support team is here to assist you. Contact us with your questions!
Emergency Preparedness
Your safety and well-being are our top priorities. Here’s how to stay prepared for emergencies:
- Campus Safety and Security is available 24/7 and can be reached at 434.544.8555 for on-campus emergencies. Their office is on the first floor of Hall Campus Center. For off-campus emergencies, call 911.
- Download the LiveSafe App to enhance campus safety by sending your location to security, reporting concerns, and using SafeWalk.
- Familiarize yourself with emergency procedures and protocols available on the University’s website.
- The International Student Support Services team can also offer guidance on safety practices in your new environment.
Your safety matters. Familiarize yourself with our emergency resources, and don’t hesitate to contact Campus Safety and Security or International Student Support if you need assistance.