International Student Orientation

Congratulations on your admission to WashU! We are thrilled to welcome you to our community with international student orientation. As you prepare for your journey, the Office for International Students and Scholars (OISS) designed a crucial, two-part process to ensure a smooth, informed and compliant arrival.

Step 1: Complete required online F-1/J-1 student orientation course

Mandatory – Pre-Arrival

Upon acceptance to WashU and receipt of your immigration document (I-20 or DS-2019), all international students should complete the Required Online F-1/J-1 Immigration course. This comprehensive, self-paced course provides the foundational knowledge necessary to understand your F-1 or J-1 immigration status, how to apply for your student visa, and other essential information to help you prepare for travel to WashU.

Why it’s essential: This course reviews critical U.S. immigration regulations and prepares you for a successful entry into the U.S.
Action item: Successfully complete this course prior to your arrival at WashU. The course “Certificate of Completion” is required to complete your Immigration Check-in upon arrival.

Access the required online orientation course

Step 2:
Attend in-person OISS orientation

Mandatory – Upon arrival to WashU
(at scheduled time)

After arrival on the WashU campus, you will attend our in-person OISS Orientation designed for your arrival. Separate OISS orientation sessions are offered for undergraduate and graduate international students.

Meet your OISS adviser: This required in-person session is your first opportunity to meet your OISS adviser and the OISS team, who will be your partners throughout your academic career.
Review essential immigration regulations: We will conduct an essential, in-depth review of immigration regulations, enrollment requirements, work authorization benefits and more.
Contact your academic department for information on academic department specific orientations