Problems facing foreign students in American colleges and universities are examined. With the number of foreign students studying in the United States increasing each year (over 203,000 in 1976-77), services for foreign students need to be expanded with more emphasis on improving orientation programs. Preadmission screening and counseling are urged to familiarize potential students with the American educational system, standards of academic performance, and social behavior. Obstacles cited include the language problem, degree requirements, course structure; course content, and academic standards. The importance of academic advising to alleviate confusion over course options and program organization is discussed. Also considered are economic problems encountered by foreign students who come with limited funds and have unrealistic ideas about the availability of financial aid or other sources of income and did not anticipate inflation, changed or extended their coursework or overextended themselves buying American consumer goods. Problems of cultural assimilation are noted. Several possible solutions to ease the transition for foreign students are suggested: (1) standardized admissions information centrally organized and easily available; (2) more thorough orientation programs; (3) special training for teachers who instruct foreign students; (4) programs to prepare foreign students for reentry to their home countries; (5) maintenance of contact with foreign alumni. (BH)