International Student Orientation and SEVIS Registration

Students learn the conditions of their status 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.

Immigration Sessions

Spring 2025 In-person Orientation Events

Graduate Students

• Graduate Immigration Session
  • Tuesday, January 7, 11:30 am – 1 pm; Location (Lohrfink Auditorium)
• Graduate Main Campus Tour
  • Tuesday, January 7, 2:30 pm – 3:30 pm

Undergraduate Students

• Undergraduate Immigration Session
  • Tuesday, January 7, 1 – 2 pm; Location (TBA)

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 & 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 (n/a for Summer Non-Degree & Executive Residency)

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.