New International Student & Scholar Checklist

Request Immigration Document from ISSP (*)

After paying the W&M admissions deposit, you will receive an email from ISSP with instructions on how to request an I-20/DS-2019 in iStart.

Pay the SEVIS Fee and Apply for an F-1/J-1 Student Visa (*)

For More Information: F-1 Students; J-1 Students

Review Pre-Arrival Emails (*)

During the weeks leading up to your arrival in the U.S., you will receive a series of pre-arrival emails from ISSP with important topics for new international students. Make sure to check your W&M email regularly!

Review On-Campus or Off-Campus Housing options

Complete Health Records & Insurance Requirement (*)

Schedule Transportation to W&M or VIMS

Complete the online Immigration Check-in (*)

You must be in the U.S. to complete the online immigration check-in

Connect to the W&M Wireless Network

Participate in International Student Orientation (*)

New F-1 and J-1 international students are required to complete new international student requirements. There will also be welcome activities to support your transition to life in the U.S. and at the university.

Attend New Student Orientation (*)

Undergrad, transfer, and exchange students only. Graduate students will have separate orientations with their academic programs.

Get your Tribe Card (W&M ID card) (*)

Apply for a Social Security Numbers (SSN)

SSNs are only granted to F-1 students working at W&M or VIMS or with a work authorization or J-1 students who apply for the number.

Open a U.S. Bank Account

Cell Phone Service and SIM cards

Get a Driver's License or VA State ID

Department initiates DS-2019 Request in iStart (*)

An invitation by an academic department or unit is required for J-1 sponsorship.

Pay the SEVIS Fee and Apply for a J-1 Visa (*)

Secure Off-Campus Housing

J-1/J-2 Health Insurance Requirement (*)

Schedule Transportation to W&M or VIMS

Complete the online Scholar Immigration Check-in (*)

You must be in the U.S. to complete the online immigration check-in

Connect to the W&M Wireless Network

Attend International Scholar Orientation (*)

Scholar Orientation is designed to make your transition to campus as smooth and successful as possible. Spouses and family members are welcome to attend!

Get your Tribe Card (W&M ID card) (*)

Apply for a Social Security Numbers (SSN)

Scholars who plan to work or be paid in the U.S. will need a Social Security Number (SSN) for payment and tax purposes. Your immigration must be registered by ISSP before applying for an SSN.

Open a U.S. Bank Account

Cell Phone Service and SIM cards

Get a Driver's License or VA State ID