The Office of International Student Services (ISS) provides a mandatory orientation program during the week before classes start each semester. All new international students are expected to Check-In and attend Orientation. The director, international peers, faculty, and university staff (Residence Life, Health Insurance, Health Services, Library, etc.) provide information and guidance to facilitate a smooth transition for new international students to the campus and community. Information is provided on academic, financial, personal, social, institutional, cross-cultural and governmental issues.

Pre-Arrival

Confirm Your Attendance

Do you plan to attend UIS?  Have you received your F-1 visa?  Please follow the below instructions to confirm your attendance, upload a copy of your visa, and request transportation services:

  • Access iStart
  • Login by providing your NETID and Password
  • Click on the Pre-Arrival Tab
  • Click on Pre-Arrival Confirm Attendance
  • Complete the Visa Information and Upload e-form

Campus Housing

If you plan to live on campus, you must Apply for Housing. You may be allowed to move-in early with an approved Early Arrival Request. For more information regarding on campus housing, you can reach out to the Residence Life Office.

Travel and Accommodations – If you do not confirm early arrival with housing or you arrive prior to early arrival date, you will need to stay at a hotel. This link provides hotel information for you and family members, and will also assist you in navigating through your arrival process.

Please view the Campus Maps to familiarize yourself with the campus. Driving directions to the campus, maps of each building, parking, and more are available on this site.

New International Student Orientation Spring 2025

Orientation is MANDATORY for all new students. New International Student Orientation will take place on Thursday, January 9, 2025. Lunch will be provided.

Plan for a full day of welcome, which includes information on various departments and resources on campus, health insurance, immigration check-in, on-campus job opportunities and GA/GPSI programs, getting your university iCard, a vendor fair, campus tours, and much more!

Important:  You WILL NOT be able to register for future classes (Fall 2025 semester) or add/drop classes until you have attended orientation and complete the Immigration Check-In process. Orientation is mandatory even if you transferred from another university. All new international students will be charged an International Fee of $175. 

Immigration Check-In is required of all F-1 international students for SEVIS registration.

UIS Resources

For a complete list, visit Student Resources and Information.