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International Student Immigration Orientation

Immigration Check-in and Orientation are mandatory for all new F-1 or J-1 students (freshman, transfer, and graduate), including current FAU students who have requested a change of status to F-1 from another visa category or changing degree levels.

Students who are currently abroad should enter the U.S. no earlier than 30 days prior to the program start date listed on the I-20 or DS-2019.

Review the Academic Terms Glossary

Pre-Arrival Brochure for F-1 students

Pre-Arrival Brochure for J-1 students

Important: Immigration Check-in and International Orientation are mandatory. Failure to attend will result in a registration hold on your account.

Immigration Orientation

Immigration Check-In

All international students who are starting as a new student must sign up for the check-in process. The location for check in is in the International Services Office, and the process takes approximately 30 min.

When you arrive at the Florida Atlantic University to start your program, you need to come to the International Services (IS) for a short time to complete the Check-In process. IS is located at 777 Glades Road Bld. DP-49 , Boca Raton, FL 33431.

When the Check-in dates are posted on this web page (above), you will be asked to register on line to make a Check-in appointment with a staff member from our office, where you will do the following:

1. You will use our automated form to submit your most up to date personal information
2. You will sign the Responsibility Form
3. Bring the following documents to IS at the time of check-in:
   • Valid Passport with your valid F1/J1 visa stamp
   • SEVIS Fee Receipt
   • Signed I-20 or DS-2019
   • I-94 form - you will be able to download the I-94 form at the time of your check-in

*Students transferring from another U.S. school must bring a copy of the I-20 issued by the previous institution.

Students who are already in the U.S., wish to gain F-1 status, and did not receive an I-20 from FAU must contact the IS Office immediately to determine whether a change of status is required.

Attention graduate students who have assistantships but do not have a social security number (SSN): You must wait 7-10 days after entering the U.S. before applying for the SSN. Allow approximately one month to have the number in hand. Visit the SSN application requirements.

Important Contact Information at FAU