International Student Orientation and SEVIS Registration
Students learn about their rights and responsibilities via the Canvas Pre + Post-Arrival Modules and in-person Immigration Session. F-1 or J-1 status is activated with these requirements. Transfers and students returning from leave complete this same initial SEVIS registration.
Spring 2026
Immigration Session
This session is mandatory for all F-1 and J-1 students beginning studies in the Spring 2026 semester.
- Graduate Students:
- Tuesday, January 6, 11:30am-1:00pm on the Hilltop Campus (Location: TBA)
- Undergraduate Students:
- Tuesday, January 6, 1:00-2:00pm on the Hilltop Campus in the Healey Family Student Center (HFSC) Social Room
U.S. Address & Phone Number
Report phone number if living on campus (Office of Residential Living sends address to OGS).
Only the Local Off-Campus address type syncs to F-1 and J-1 records. Log each update in GU Experience even for a temporary stay.
Immigration Document Review
Upload these items to the International Student Portal when you arrive on campus:
- Image of F-1 or J-1 visa photo page from passport (N/A for citizen of Canada/Bermuda)
- I-94 proof of status (downloaded after most recent U.S. admission; not I-94 travel history)
- Post-Arrival Quiz from Canvas
Full Time In Person Course Load
Register for minimum credits by add/drop deadline. Maximum one online course (max. 3 credits) may count toward full-time enrollment.
Travel Signature
After SEVIS registration, OGS emails an updated Form I-20 to each F-1 student during their first semester. This document is valid together with other U.S. reentry documentation for readmission to the United States within one calendar year. If the academic program and/or F-1 status ends earlier, so does the travel signature. F-1 students who travel internationally in the semester’s first two months must email OGS for early assistance. J-1 students must email OGS to request a travel endorsement on Form DS-2019.