International Student Orientation and SEVIS Registration
Students learn about the conditions for lawful F-1 or J-1 status maintenance via the Canvas Pre + Post-Arrival Modules and in-person Immigration Session.
F-1 or J-1 status is activated by completing the requirements listed on this page.
SEVIS transfers and students returning from leave complete this same initial SEVIS registration.
Immigration Session – Tuesday, January 6 on Hilltop Campus
In person attendance is required to begin F-1 or J-1 status.
- 11:30am-1:00pm – Lohrfink Auditorium in Hariri Building
- F-1 Masters & PhD
- J-1 Exchange – Grad & Undergrad
- 1:00-2:00pm – Healey Family Student Center (HFSC) Social Room
- F-1 Undergraduate
- F-1 GU-Qatar Study Abroad
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: View all course sections to unlock quiz.
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.