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If you’re an international student studying in the U.S.you will probably encounter the “college drinking” culture at some point. The most important thing for international students to know is that in the U.S., you must be at least 21 years old to legally drink alcohol. There are absolutely no exceptions!
Additionally, even if you are old enough to legally drink, it is illegal to buy alcohol for or supply alcohol to minors (those who are under 21 years of age).
So, to legally enjoy an alcoholic beverage in the U.S., you may need to make some adjustments, especially if your home country does not have a minimum age for drinking alcohol.
Secondly, it’s important for international students to understand the legal consequences of consuming alcohol underage in the U.S., or other alcohol-related incidents , and why drinking responsibly is important.
Finally, your college or university may also have rules about alcohol on campus, so be sure you are familiar with and following those rules also.
Let’s dive in!
Here are some tips international students can follow to still drink responsibly while in the U.S.
If you’re not at least 21 years old, don’t drink alcohol and don’t ask others to buy it for you.
In the United States, every state makes it illegal to drive a vehicle if you have a certain amount of alcohol in your system. That measurement is called the blood alcohol limit (BAC). In most states, it is illegal to drive a vehicle if your BAC is at or above 0.8%; however, some states may have a lower threshold. If you are caught driving with a BAC at or above the state’s legal limit, you could be charged with Driving Under the Influence (DUI) or Driving While Impaired (DWI), or something similar, which are very serious offenses.
Some states impose greater penalties if your BAC is significantly higher than the legal limit, which can include larger fines, longer driver’s license suspensions, or mandatory imprisonments.
Avoid these concerns altogether: if you plan to or have been drinking alcohol, arrange for alternative transportation. There are plenty of other options – including a designated driver (someone who has not been drinking alcohol), taking the bus, or calling a taxi or an Uber.
Always being aware of your surroundings is a good rule to follow no matter what, but especially if you’re enjoying some drinks. Keep note of where you and your friends are. Never leave your drink unattended, and do not accept an open drink from a stranger.
This tip may sound simple, but it can be tempting to keep drinking when you’ve been having a great time. Listen to your body; if you start feeling unwell stop drinking alcohol and switch to water.
Remember, you must be at least 21 years old to legally drink alcohol in the U.S. Keep well-informed about the regulations in your state, city, and county so you can navigate the American college experience responsibly and avoid legal trouble and potential immigration issues.
By respecting the law, staying aware of your surroundings, listening to your body, and never drinking and driving, you can enjoy your time in the U.S. while making smart and responsible decisions.
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