By Leana de la Torre, Adviser, Office of International Students and Scholars
The Office of International Students and Scholars (ISS) assists over 2900 F-1 and J-1 students in maintaining their visa status. Services include advising on travel and visa related issues, requirements for maintaining F-1 and J-1 status, and employment authorization, as well as helping new international students navigate the university at large. Students transferring from Washington community colleges will likely notice that while their current international advisers handle a wide range of issues, including academic advising, housing, financial matters, and visa-related matters, the UW ISS advisers primarily specialize in F-1 and J-1 regulations.
Newly admitted international students will receive their first UW I-20 or DS-2019 from Undergraduate Admissions and should coordinate the transfer of their SEVIS record with their current international adviser. If students have questions about the new I-20 or DS-2019, such as when it will be issued or how to change the mailing option, they should contact Undergraduate Admissions at intladm@u.washington.edu.
All new international students are required to complete the New Student Online Check-in before registering for classes. Students will need their UW NetID and password to access the online check-in. The ISS registration hold will be removed within three to five business days after completion of the online check-in. For additional information about ISS services, hours, and contact information, visit the ISS website.
