INTERNATIONAL STUDENT GUIDE
2016-2017
TABLE OF
Contents WELCOME TO THE UNIVERSITY OF IDAHO Congratulations on your acceptance to the University of Idaho! We are looking forward to welcoming you to the beautiful UI campus and the City of Moscow. We cannot wait to be part of this new chapter of your life. The International Programs Office and the whole UI campus are here to answer your questions and to meet your needs. Let’s create a home away from home together for you at the University of Idaho. We hope your experience at UI will be infused with growth, excitement, joy and success.
Congratulations! Map of the Northwest & Introduction Orientation Important Dates
2 4 5
Preparing for Departure Useful Contact Information Pre-departure Checklist Applying for Your Visa What to Bring Health Insurance Financial Information Cruise the World in Idaho Family Information
6 7 8 9 9 10 10 11 11
About Moscow Making Flight Arrangements Moscow/Pullman Transportation Climate
14 15 15 15
Room & Board On Campus Housing University Apartments UI Residences Contract Obligations Off Campus Housing
16 17 17 17 17
Registration & Transfer Credit Evaluation Class Registration Procedures International Credit Evaluation for Transfer of Credits
18 18
Special Fees Class Fees International Student Fees
19 19 19
Forms and Checklists Your iVandal Account Checklist for When You Arrive at UI
20 20 21
Additional Information What to Expect at Customs Social Security Information I-901 SEVIS Fee Information
22 22 24 24
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www.uidaho.edu/international | 208-885-8984 | ipo@uidaho.edu
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! s n o i t a l Connggrraattuulations!
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Please read this packet very carefully. This Packet contains information designed to acquaint you with planning your arrival, the University of Idaho, the registration procedures and the city of Moscow. We recommend you to print out this packet and bring it with you to the U.S.
ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY Since 1889, the University of Idaho has been a place that expects more from itself, more from its students, more from knowledge and more from life. We offer a distinctive combination of outstanding majors and graduate programs, accomplished faculty, world-class facilities, renowned research and a residential campus in a spectacular natural setting.
ABOUT MOSCOW, IDAHO Moscow is ranked nationally as one of the 100 Best Small Art Towns in America. Moscow is a friendly community of about 20,000 residents. The Moscow population enjoys many of the same conveniences (coffee shops, art galleries, theaters, clubs, bookstores and bike paths) of a much larger community. Nearby, you will also find some of the best (and least crowded) sites for skiing, hiking, fishing, rock climbing, and mountain biking in the region. University of Idaho
Moscow is only eight miles east of Pullman, Washington, home of Washington State University, and just 90 miles away from the resort community of Coeur d’Alene, Idaho and the city of Spokane, Washington.
INTERNATIONAL PROGRAMS OFFICE Our office is located in the LIVING LEARNING COMMUNITY (LLC), BUILDING #3, GROUND FLOOR. IPO offers assistance in registration, advising, and adjusting to life at the UI. If you have any questions, please feel free to come to the office or contact us. Our office hours are 8:00 am–5:00 pm during the academic year, and 7:30 am-4:30 pm during the summer session. Front desk phone number is 208-885-8984 and email is ipo@uidaho.edu.
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University of Idaho International Student Welcome Guide
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http://www.uidaho.edu/international | 208-885-8984 | ipo@uidaho.edu
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Orientation As a new international student, you are required to attend orientation(s) at the dates and times below. These orientations are designed to help you 1 check in with IPO and get your immigration records activated so you are here legally, 2 get ready for your ďŹ rst day of classes, 3 learn about American culture and cultural adjustment; 4 get advice and information on how to be successful in your academics, and 5 to make new friends and connections. A detailed orientation schedule will be sent to you in a separate email soon.
NEW INTERNATIONAL STUDENT ORIENTATION Spring: Jan. 9 & 10, 2017 Summer & Fall: Aug. 16 & 17, 2017 All of the new international students (including undergraduate, graduate and non-degree exchange students) are required to attend this one-day long New International Student Orientation. * If you cannot attend the International Student Orientation due to travel delays or other circumstances, you will be required to attend a late make-up orientation. When you get to Moscow, check in at IPO and sign up for this late make-up orientation. INTERNATIONAL TEACHING ASSISTANTS & RESEARCH ASSISTANTS: ou will be required to attend TA/RA training. Time, location and more information about TA/RA training can be found at: http://www.uidaho.edu/cogs/admitted/resources/tatraining IMPORTANT: The International Student Orientation is required for all international students in order to activate your immigration records so you can remain in the U.S. on your student visa. Failure to check in may result in losing your visa status and putting you at risk for deportation.
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NEW STUDENT ORIENTATION Spring: Jan. 10, 2017 Summer & Fall: Aug. 17 & 20, 2017 All freshmen are required to attend this one-day orientation. (This orientation is for both U.S. and International Freshmen). Detailed schedule can be found here: http://www.uidaho.edu/current-students/orientation PLEASE NOTE: There is a $100 fee for each of the orientations. This fee will be charged to your student account.
Important Dates SPRING SEMESTER 2017 JANUARY 9-10, 2017
New International Student Orientation (Required).
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 11, 2017
Deadline to pay spring tuition without late fees.
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 11, 2017
Spring classes begin.
THURSDAY, JANUARY 19, 2017 WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 25, 2017
Deadline to add or change spring classes online. Deadline to change to pass/fail grading for fall. Deadline to drop or audit spring classes without W. Deadline to register, add classes, or adjust credits for the semester. Last day to receive refund of semester tuition and fees.
SUMMER SEMESTER 2017 REFUND DEADLINES
Last Day for 100% Refund
Last Day for 50% Refund
SESSION I
Classes start May 15
May 16
May 17
SESSION I ALTERNATE 6-WEEK TERM
Classes start May 22
May 23
May 24
SESSION II
Classes start June 12
June 13
June 14
SESSION III 6-WEEK TERM
Classes start June 26
June 27
June 28
SESSION III 4-WEEK TERM
Classes start July 10
July 11
July 12
FALL SEMESTER 2017 AUGUST 16-20, 2017
New International Student Orientation (Required).
MONDAY, AUGUST 21, 2017
Deadline to pay fall tuition without late fees.
MONDAY, AUGUST 21, 2017
Fall classes begin.
MONDAY, AUGUST 28, 2017
Deadline to add or change fall classes online.
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 1, 2017
Deadline to change to pass/fail grading for fall. Deadline to drop or audit spring classes without W. Deadline to register, add classes, or adjust credits for the semester. Last day to receive refund of semester tuition and fees.
For more academic dates & deadlines see:
http://www.uidaho.edu/registrar/calendar | 208-885-8984 | ipo@uidaho.edu
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Preparing for Departure
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University of Idaho International Student Welcome Guide
Preparing for Departure
USEFUL CONTACT INFORMATION Immigration, visa, I-20 or DS-2019 Issues
UI Admissions
n Laila Cornwall Associate Director, International Student, Scholar & Faculty Services Phone: 208-885-4061 Email: lailac@uidaho.edu
Phone: 208-885-6326 Email: admissions@uidaho.edu Web: www.uidaho.edu/admissions
n
Tammi Johnson Director, International Student, Scholar & Faculty Services Phone: 208-885-8945 Email: tammir@uidaho.edu
UI Academics Phone: 208-885-6111 Email: info@uidaho.edu Web: www.uidaho.edu/academics
Exchange Programs (ISEP, PUCE, SANN)
UI Student Life
n UI Study Abroad Phone: 208-885-0105 Email: abroad@uidaho.edu
Web: www.uidaho.edu/studentlife Web: www.uidaho.edu/studentlife/studentservices Web: www.uidaho.edu/studentaffairs/campus-recreation
International Programs
UI General Catalog (class information)
Phone: 208-885-8984 Email: ipo@uidaho.edu Web: www.uidaho.edu/international
Web: www.uidaho.edu/catalog
UI International Student Groups & Leaders
Phone: 208-885-6731 Email: registrar@uidaho.edu Web: www.uidaho.edu/registrar/
UI Registration
Web: http://vandalsync.orgsync.com/listoforgs
Housing Questions & Room Reservations n
On-campus housing, University residences and Dining plans Phone: 208-885-6571 Email: housing@uidaho.edu Web: www.uidaho.edu/universityhousing
Associated Students University of Idaho (ASUI) (get involved on campus) Phone: 208-885-6331 Email: getinvolved@uidaho.edu Web: http://www.uidaho.edu/asui
n Off-campus housing. See page 17 of this booklet
http://www.uidaho.edu/international | 208-885-8984 | ipo@uidaho.edu
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PRE-DEPARTURE CHECKLIST
o Set up your University of Idaho NetID Account…
https://vandalsetup.uidaho.edu/
o Access your account... o If you are sponsored…
Complete the “Pre-Arrival Checklist” (for more details, see Page 20).
If you are sponsored by an organization, notify them of your plans. Your sponsor can assist you with many pre-departure arrangements and provide valuable information.
o Make travel arrangements…
Arrive on campus at least two days before orientation begins in case of travel delays or jet lag. We recommend arriving 30 days prior to class if you plan to work on-campus. Students can enter the U.S. up to 30 days before the begin date on their documents (see #5 on your I-20 form or #3 on your DS-2019).
o Financial arrangements
Arrange to have enough money to cover the cost of tuition and fees, health insurance, housing expenses, books and personal expenses.
o Make copies…
Copy medical records, x-rays, and prescriptions. Also, have prescriptions written in generic terms rather than brand names. A certified birth certificate translated into English may be required to obtain an Idaho driver’s license.
o Label your luggage…
Label all luggage, inside and outside, with your name and address in Moscow, please use IPO address if you don’t have an address yet.
o Carry all legal documentation…
Carry your passport, I-20, financial documentation and any other legal documents, on your person, NOT IN YOUR LUGGAGE! You will need these to clear Customs.
Ask about their luggage policy (how many and size of your bags) and reconfirm your flight reservations 72 hours before departure.
Use someone you know in Moscow or your department. If you do not know anyone to contact, please use the International Programs Office phone number (208-885-8984) in case of emergencies.
o Check with the airlines…
o Leave a phone number with someone in your home country…
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University of Idaho International Student Welcome Guide
Preparing for Departure
APPLYING FOR YOUR VISA
WHAT TO BRING
The Admissions Office sent you a “Certificate of Eligibility” Form (I-20 or DS-2019) and an official notice of your admission. You will need these when you apply for your US visa.
Avoid bringing excess items that can be purchased here and appliances that cannot be used with the U.S. current (110V). Listed below are items students suggest you bring because of expenses in the U.S. and for convenience:
All new F-1 and J-1 students are required to pay the I-901 SEVIS Fee (see page 24 for details). Applicants who require a visa to enter the U.S. must pay this SEVIS fee before going to the U.S. embassy or consulate for your visa interviews. Go to: www. FMJfee.com for more information. Apply visa online by filling out DS-160 form and schedule a visa interview. More instructions can be found: travel.state.gov/content/visas/english/forms/ds-160--onlinenonimmigrant-visa-application.html Take your I-901 SEVIS fee receipt, I-20 or DS-2019, passport, a bank statement and/or departmental appointment letter indicating financial support to the US Embassy/Consulate to obtain a visa. Do not use another school’s I-20 if you wish to attend the UI, as you must attend the school listed on your visa before you can transfer. Also, do not enter the US on a tourist visa (B-1 or B-2), as you cannot change to student status unless the consulate has endorsed the visa as “prospective student”. CANADIAN CITIZENS: You are required to pay the I-901 SEVIS fee but you are not required to obtain a visa prior to US entry. Take your I-20, passport and the I-901 receipt to the port of entry be admitted to the U.S. in F-1 status. TRANSFER STUDENTS: If you are attending a school in the US and plan to transfer to the University of Idaho, you must inform the International Student Advisor (ISA) at your current school and have them release your SEVIS records to the UI. Report to IPO (you can do so by attending the New International Student Orientation) to obtain your new transfer I-20 or DS-2019 within 15 days of the first day of classes.
p Extra eye glasses or contact lenses & fluid p Frequently used or favorite books p Educational supplies (calculators, paint brushes) p Traditional or special medicines, packaged &
wrapped – medicines you need should be in your carry-on luggage in case your luggage is lost. All fluids over 3 oz. should be in your large luggage and checked in.
p Photos, slides, maps, flags, artifacts, clothing
typical of your country that can be used to share your culture with other students.
p Medical history from your home country physician (translated into English) for physicians at UI and in the Moscow area
You will need bedding and personal items, but it is best to purchase them after you arrive, as bed and pillow sizes vary by country and these items take up lots of space.
http://www.uidaho.edu/international | 208-885-8984 | ipo@uidaho.edu
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FINANCIAL INFORMATION Bring enough money to cover the cost of tuition & fees, health insurance, housing expenses, books and personal expenses. If you plan to live on campus, you will pay a deposit before arriving and will need to pay for the entire semester for housing and dining costs after your arrival. If you live off-campus, we recommend that you bring first and last month’s rent, plus damage deposit (approximately $1,500).
We also recommend that you bring money in traveler’s checks or credit card rather than cash. Foreign bank drafts can be used to open a bank account; however, you cannot draw on this account for 5 days. SPONSORED STUDENTS/SCHOLARSHIPS: If you have a scholarship or are sponsored by a third party, you must bring a letter from your funding source addressed to the UI’s Business & Accounting Services Office, which authorizes billing for tuition, fees, housing and insurance if applicable.
HEALTH INSURANCE Healthcare in the US is very expensive. Also, when you sign your I-20 and DS-2019, you are verifying that you will not be a financial burden to the U.S. government, to the University of Idaho or to the State of Idaho. Therefore, health insurance is required for all international students and their families. It is included in the total expenses on your I-20 or DS-2019. Failure to purchase insurance may result in consequences up to and including disenrollment. When purchasing health insurance you will have two options:
OPTION A: University of Idaho Student Health Insurance Program (SHIP). n You are automatically charged for SHIP when you register for classes. You will see SHIP on your bill from the UI for each semester. You do not have to fill out any forms. n Dependents are not eligible to be enrolled on SHIP. You will have to find off-campus insurance that meets our requirements for your dependents. n Find out the cost of SHIP and what is covered at: www.health.uidaho.edu/ship
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OPTION B: Purchase a different medical insurance plan that meets or exceeds the UI Health Insurance Requirements. n If you would like to purchase a different insurance that is less expensive, you are required to complete the form available here. Sign the first page of the form and send both pages to your medical insurance provider/company. The medical insurance company must complete and sign the second page of this form and return to us. If the form is not received before classes begin, the SHIP charges will remain on your student account, as you are required to have insurance for every day you are in the U.S. If you are a J-1 Exchange student, please use the J-1 forms. n Dependents are required to have insurance that meets F-1 and J-1 insurance requirements. n PLEASE NOTE: In order to register for classes, students will still have to choose the SHIP insurance to finalize class registration. SHIP will be taken of your account after you turn in waiver form. If you are from Asia, Africa, or Latin America (areas of the world at high risk for tuberculosis, TB), we strongly recommend you be tested and treated for TB before you arrive in the US. Contact your US Consular office to see if there are any required or recommended immunizations before traveling. Bring copies of your medical records written in English.
University of Idaho International Student Welcome Guide
Preparing for Departure
FAMILY INFORMATION If your family is coming with you, please bring complete medical records, written in English, for all family members. If you have children of school-age, there is no charge or advance registration needed to enroll them in the Moscow public school system. There may be fees for certain services or courses not included in the regular curriculum. To enroll, you must provide: n A record of your child’s immunizations: diphtheria, tetanus, polio, measles, mumps, and rubella. A tuberculin skin test is recommended. Records should document a student’s vaccinations and oral immunizations by the month and year they were administered. n A birth certificate or passport is required to enroll students in local schools. n Records, in English, of previous school attended are required for junior high and high school enrollment.
CRUISE THE WORLD IN
Idaho!
We hope you will bring pictures, maps, cultural items and clothing specific to your country or region to display at “Cruise the World”. Cruise the World is an annual interactive celebration of international customs and cultures hosted by the International Programs Office in the Fall semester. This event draws campus and community members together for an exciting day of international food and activities. For more information, email Erin Rishling at erishling@uidaho.edu.
http://www.uidaho.edu/international | 208-885-8984 | ipo@uidaho.edu 11
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University of Idaho International Student Welcome Guide
http://www.uidaho.edu/international | 208-885-8984 | ipo@uidaho.edu 13
About Moscow
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University of Idaho International Student Welcome Guide
About Moscow
MAKING FLIGHT ARRANGEMENTS
MOSCOW/PULLMAN TRANSPORTATION
The Pullman-Moscow Regional Airport is a small airport located close to Moscow. There are no direct international flights to Moscow. Most students arrange a connecting flight to the Pullman/Moscow airport from a major airport such as Seattle. Some choose to fly to the Spokane airport and take the Wheatland Express bus to Moscow (a 2-hour drive). See below for information on taking the bus from Spokane.
There is a free bus route available on weekdays in Moscow. Wheatland Express and Valley Transit also provide commuter services between Moscow, Pullman, Spokane and Lewiston.
PULLMAN-MOSCOW REGIONAL AIRPORT
Weather in Moscow varies greatly with four distinct seasons and varied temperatures. Temperatures during the winter range between 20° and 40° F. There is considerable rain and snow between November and March. You will need gloves, scarves, sweaters, a heavy coat, and boots during these months. Light clothing is needed during the summer, which tends to be hot (70-100° F) and dry. A light jacket or sweater may be needed for cooler summer night temperatures.
(Airport Code is PUW): From the Pullman/Moscow airport, you can use the courtesy phone in the lobby to call a taxi. Call “A-Z Taxi” at 208-882-6141, or Pegasus Taxi 208-874-7500 to arrange a ride to your hotel, apartment or residence hall. Another option is to contact your Student Group Leader (see page 7) to see if they can arrange a ride from the airport for you. If you arrive at the PullmanMoscow Airport up to 10 days prior to the first day of classes, IPO can arrange airport pickup for you for free. You will need to sign up for airport pickup. You can sign up through iVandal on the Pre-Arrival Checklist.
CLIMATE
Websites for weather & travel information n www.dnews.com n www.moscow.com
SPOKANE INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT (Airport Code is GEG) Transportation from the Spokane airport is provided by Wheatland Express. Reservations are necessary and the cost for this service is $38 by credit card or exact cash only (excess baggage is subject to additional charge). Locate the driver in the “ground transportation” area, which is near the exit at the baggage claim area. Wheatland Express from Spokane to Moscow: Telephone: 1-888-690-3080 or 1-509-334-2200 Website: www.wheatlandexpress.com/ (check times for “Southbound from Airport) In the event that you arrive too late to get transportation to Moscow, please check into an airport hotel and be sure to make arrangements to arrive back at the airport to catch the bus. Sign up for hotel reservation for early arrivals here.
http://www.uidaho.edu/international | 208-885-8984 | ipo@uidaho.edu 15
Room and Board
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University of Idaho International Student Welcome Guide
Room and board
ON CAMPUS HOUSING Housing on the UI campus is arranged by University Residences. Several types of accommodations are available to suit each student's individual needs. Activate your vandal web account and then reserve your residence hall room with a non-refundable $250 deposit, on-line at www.uidaho.edu/universityhousing. You may also contact the Housing Office by email at housing@ uidaho.edu by fax at 208/885-6606 or by phone at 208-8856571. Residence Hall rooms have either common bath facilities, where toilet/shower facilities are located on each floor, or have semi-private bathrooms, which are shared with one or more roommates. Students living in residence halls are required to purchase a meal plan to eat in the university cafeteria. There are multiple meal plan options available to suit your eating & snacking habits and class schedule at www.uidaho.edu/universityhousing/cost-ofliving/Dining-Plan-Options. Some of the residence halls have cooking facilities available and microwaves are provided in each of the individual halls. In general, residence hall rooms have a twin-sized bed, chair, desk, shelves, drawers and a closet. You will need bed sheets, pillows, towels and other personal items. You may want to wait until you arrive in Moscow to buy these things. Students have 22 computer labs located throughout campus. Several residence halls have computer labs, available seven days a week. Additionally, each student room has internet & telephone capabilities.
UNIVERSITY APARTMENTS University Residences offer different living options for graduate students, nontraditional students, married couples and families. All apartments have private bath and cooking facilities. Family housing apartments have hookups for a washer and dryer.
UI RESIDENCES CONTRACT OBLIGATIONS NOTE: All first year students are required to live on-campus in the UI residence halls for their first academic year. Students can move in university housing on January 11 after 9:00am. IPO will help you reserve a hotel room if you arrive earlier than January 11. Please make sure to request hotel reservation on http://www.uidaho.edu/ admissions/international/admitted/hotel-request-form If you choose to live on campus, you must meet with University Residences personnel to discuss your contractual agreement. UI residences staff will be scheduled to meet with you during fall & spring orientations. You will be required to sign a legal contract agreeing to stay in assigned housing for one full academic year (August through May) if you arrive in August or one full semester if you arrive in January. University Apartment housing arrangements are made for one full calendar year (July through June). Exceptions may be made for students who check in for spring or summer semesters or whose programs are only one semester in duration. Room and board must be paid in full when you move in or you will be charged a fee for an installment plan until your balance is paid. If students move off campus before the contract ending date, University Residences will assess a penalty charge for the time remaining on the contract.
OFF CAMPUS HOUSING We recognize that some students, particularly those who accustomed to living independently, may find that residence hall living does not suit their needs. As an alternative, students may choose to live off-campus. If you decide to live off-campus, it is your responsibility to find accommodations. If you are a freshman and want to live off-campus, you will need to apply for exemption. More information can be found: n http://www.uidaho.edu/student-life/live-on-campus/ requirement www.moscow.com n n www.moscowrealestate.com/ (click on rentals) n http://www.trulia.com/for_rent/Moscow,ID/map_v n http://www.trulia.com/real_estate/Moscow-Idaho/ community-info/ n http://www.trulia.com/voices/guides/ n http://www.trulia.com/blog/real-estate-101/renting/
http://www.uidaho.edu/international | 208-885-8984 | ipo@uidaho.edu 17
Registration CLASS REGISTRATION PROCEDURES In your acceptance letter you will receive information about registering for your UI courses. It is important to pre-register as soon as possible, as some classes fill up quickly. You can wait until you are on campus, but this is not recommended. n ENROLLMENT DEPOSIT: The University of Idaho requires a $100 enrollment deposit to secure your space in the incoming class and make all necessary plans for your arrival so we can officially welcome you to the Vandal family! More information about this see and how to pay for it, please go to http://www. uidaho.edu/admissions/first-year/to-do/enrollment-deposit. n If you are an undergraduate, contact your academic advisor to discuss your choices. The Registrar's Office puts a "registration hold" on each undergraduate's registration. This means that until an undergraduate speaks with an advisor, the student will be unable to register for courses. n Graduate students are able to register without an advisors approval, but it is a good idea to contact your graduate advisor anyway. n Select classes from the online time schedule at: www.uidaho.edu/schedule/. When choosing classes remember you may be required to prove you have taken the prerequisites to get into a class. You will need to contact your academic advisor to find out if you are eligible to take the class. For example, you cannot register for Math 143 unless you have met the Math 108 requirements. Classes numbered from 100-400 are undergraduate courses. Classes numbered 500 and up are graduate level courses. n Login to register for your courses online at: www.vandalweb.uidaho.edu/ n When you are registering for classes a window will pop up asking if you would like to be enrolled in the Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP). Make sure to check “yes I want to enroll in SHIP”, you will be able to waive SHIP if you have alternative health insurance that meets our requirements. If you check “no” you will have a difficult time registering for classes. For more information about health insurance see page 10.
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n For more information contact the Registrar’s Office at registrar@uidaho.edu or 208-885-6731.
INTERNATIONAL CREDIT EVALUATION FOR TRANSFER OF CREDITS The University of Idaho requires that transcripts from international institutions be evaluated by an academic credential evaluation service before transfer credit is evaluated and posted. An evaluation can be: ordered by a student before attending the University of Idaho or ordered by the University of Idaho during the student's first semester.
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Option 1: BEFORE This evaluation can be completed by you prior to attending the University of Idaho if you would like to know what courses will transfer before attending. We recommend that you use Educational Credential Evaluators for your evaluation. However, we will accept evaluations from some other services. Please check with us to see if the agency you would like to use is acceptable. You are responsible for supplying the correct academic records and paying for the evaluation service. You will need to request a course-by-course evaluation. Upon request, the University of Idaho can fax or mail copies of official documents that have been received to Educational Credential Evaluators. Please have the evaluation sent to:
Option 2: AFTER
University of Idaho Office of the Registrar PO Box 444260 Moscow, ID 83844-4260
The University of Idaho will submit your transcript(s) to Educational Credential Evaluators for evaluation after you have sent all official documents, paid your fees, and started attending classes. The cost for this evaluation will be your responsibility and will be posted to your student account.
University of Idaho International Student Welcome Guide
Special Fees CLASS FEES
INTERNATIONAL STUDENT FEES
There are some student fees not included in the estimated cost of attendance and they can sometimes surprise students. You can check to see if there are additional fees attached to a class by looking up the class at the UI class schedule website: www.uiweb.uidaho.edu/schedule/.
$100 ORIENTATION FEE: The University of Idaho’s International Programs Office strives to provide new international students with the greatest assistance possible as they settle into their new homes in Moscow. As such, attending a one full day international student orientation is required for all new students. This orientation will include a complete immigration workshop as well as offer meals and activities. This is a one-time fee for all new international students which will be added to your student account after you have attended orientation. Any student who does not attend this orientation will be required to attend a late orientation session. $100 INTERNATIONAL STUDENT FEE: This fee is charged to your student account automatically each account to support international student programming and services at the university.
http://www.uidaho.edu/international | 208-885-8984 | ipo@uidaho.edu 19
Forms and Checklists YOUR iVANDAL ACCOUNT Your iVandal account is the University of Idaho’s Online Service for International Students, Scholars and Staff. You will find immigration information, forms, training materials, and updates from the University of Idaho. While you are a student at the University of Idaho, you will access your iVandal account almost every day, so it is important to become familiar with all that it has to offer. Login to iVandal here:
https://www.ivandal.uidaho.edu Before you arrive on campus, you will complete several important forms. On the menu, select “Pre-Arrival” and complete the Pre-Arrival Checklist.
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University of Idaho International Student Welcome Guide
Forms and Checklists
CHECKLIST FOR WHEN YOU ARRIVE AT UI Here is what you need to do after arriving in Moscow:
o Plan to attend the new student orientation
Schedule available online at http://www.uidaho.edu/current-students/orientation/schedule
o Check in with your department
a. Meet with your major professor/advisor (if you have not been assigned one yet, ask in the department office). If at all possible, make an appointment before you arrive in the U.S. You can contact your department by e-mail or phone and ask for an appointment with your advisor. b. With the assistance of your advisor/major professor, choose your courses and register through the university web page. c. If you are a graduate student and are a research (RA) or teaching assistant (TA), you will need to complete the paperwork that the department will need to process your paychecks. If you do not have a Social Security Number (required to work in the U.S.) please see IPO for Social Security Administration information and forms. d. TA’s please see IPO about the SPEAK test, if required by your department. This is to test your English speaking skills.
o Get your student identification card (Vandal Card)
Go to the Vandal Card Office in the Bruce Pitman Center, show them your passport, tell them your Student ID# (from your admissions information) and ask them to make the card for you. You will need to register at least one class before you can obtain a Vandal Card. You will need your Vandal Card in order to move into University Housing.
o Establish your e-mail account
You should receive a letter in the mail detailing how to activate your account online. If you have problems, visit the ITS at TLC 128.
o Make copies of your documents
Copy your I-20 or DS-2019, passport, visa, I-94(print online after your arrival), etc. and put them in a safe & memorable place.
http://www.uidaho.edu/international | 208-885-8984 | ipo@uidaho.edu 21
Additional Information WHAT TO EXPECT AT CUSTOMS The following is a general guide for students arriving from outside the U.S. in F-1 or J-1 student status. If you entered the U.S. already in a status other than F-1 or J-1 status (such as B-1, B-2, H-1, or H-4) this information may not apply to you. It is important that your documents correct. If Customs keeps any of your documents, kindly ask the officer if you can have a copy for your own records. If you have any questions about this before you arrive, contact ipo@uidaho.edu
1 I-20 FORM FOR F-1 STUDENTS: This is the 3-page document that the University of Idaho sent to you after you were admitted to the university. Present your I-20 document to U.S. Customs. If dependents (husband, wife, or children) are coming into the U.S. in F-2 status, they should each have an I-20 with their own name on it as well as the student’s name. Do not lose or throw away your I-20(s).
DS-2019 FORM FOR J-1 EXCHANGE STUDENTS:
School
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University of Idaho International Student Welcome Guide
This is a 2-page document that the University of Idaho or your program sponsor sent you after you were admitted to the university. Present your DS-2019 document to U.S. Customs. If dependents (husband, wife, or children) are coming into the U.S. in J-2 status, they should each have a DS-2019 with their own name on it as well as the student’s name. Do not lose or throw away your DS-2019(s).
Additional Information 2
F-1 OR J-1 VISA: Present the F-1 or J-1 Student Visa. You should have received an F-1 or J-1 visa after you took your I-20 or DS-2019 document to the U.S. Consulate in your home country. The F-1 or J-1 visa is usually placed in your current passport. If you have more than one visa in your passport, and you plan to enter the U.S. to study at the University of Idaho, make sure to present the unexpired F-1 or J-1 visa. The F1 or J-1 visa should have the University of Idaho on it unless you already attended another school in the U.S.
3
PASSPORT:
School Name
Present your unexpired passport. Your passport should be valid for at least 6 months.
4
I-94 ARRIVAL/DEPARTURE RECORD
Visa class or F1 or J1
Previous Paper version I-95 (No longer exists unless you have not traveled outside of the U.S. since April 2013)
(It is electronic arrival information card): Students used to get a white card to be filled out on the plane, this white card is the I-94 card. In order to streamline passenger processing, U.S. Customs and Border Protection is automating its arrival and departure process and eliminating the paper Form I-94. All air and sea travelers will no longer receive a paper form I-94, except in limited circumstances, CBP will create an electronic record. Travelers will be able to obtain their admission number and electronic I-94 record through the website https://i94.cbp.dhs.gov/ I94/request.html
Electronic form I-94 (can be retrieved online)
http://www.uidaho.edu/international | 208-885-8984 | ipo@uidaho.edu 23
SOCIAL SECURITY INFORMATION (if you plan to work when you arrive) F-1 & J-1 Students are only allowed to work on-campus for 20 hours per week (part-time) during the regular fall and spring semesters and 40 hours per week or more (full-time) during school breaks. This includes Teaching Assistantships and Research Assistantships.
Please Note: Anyone (including citizens of the U.S.) who works in the United States must have a Social Security Number (SSN). You must have a job offer before you can apply for a SSN and you can only apply from within the U.S. Once you have a job offer letter (original on letterhead) and a letter from our office, you can apply for a SSN. It may take up to 12 WEEKS to be issued. Therefore, if you do plan to work on-campus we suggest that you plan your arrival to the UI as soon as possible, obtain a job offer and apply for your SSN. THE EARLIEST DATE YOU CAN ARRIVE IS 30 DAYS BEFORE YOUR I-20 BEGINS. You will need to show the Human Resources Office your receipt from Social Security (showing you have applied for your SSN) in order to be placed on payroll. Please realize that there may be up to a 2–4 week wait between when you receive your Social Security receipt and when you will receive your first paycheck, so please make sure you have funds to cover immediate expenses and enough extra money for incidental expenditures. See page 19 your I-20 or DS-2019 for estimated expenses.
I-901 SEVIS FEE INFORMATION FOR F & J NONIMMIGRANT STUDENTS & EXCHANGE VISITORS Beginning September 1, 2004 the Department of Homeland Security collects a fee to cover the continued costs of operation of the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP). International students and exchange visitors are subject to this fee which will be used to administer and maintain the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS), support compliance activities, and establish SEVIS Liaison Officers. Liaison Officers will serve as local resources for schools and students, providing timely and accurate program and reporting information and assistance. SEVIS is the automated system for collecting, maintaining and managing information about foreign student and exchange visitors during their entry to, stay in, and exit from the United States. It is used to record and track the I-901 fee payment.
Who pays the fee? Those who wish to enter the United States either as a student or an exchange visitor with a Form I-20 or DS-2019 dated on or after September 1, 2004. Spouses and dependent children (F-2) of students or exchange visitors (J-2) do not pay this fee.
Our nearest Social Security Office is located 35 miles away in Lewiston, Idaho. IPO will organize a SSN trip during orientation or at the beginning of the semester. You will receive information about this trip after you arrive at UI. You can also apply for your Social Security Number on your own, please make sure to check in with IPO before you apply as a specific letter and stamp is required. IF YOU DO NOT PLAN TO WORK, YOU ARE NOT ELIGIBLE TO RECEIVE A SSN.
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University of Idaho International Student Welcome Guide
How much is the fee? For F-1 Students ................................ $200 For J-1 Exchange Visitors: ................. $180 For spouses and dependent children (F-2 or J-2) of students or exchange visitors: .......................... No Fee
Additional Information
When do prospective students or exchange visitors pay the SEVIS fee? n Applicants who require a visa to enter the United States must pay the SEVIS fee before going to the U.S. embassy or consulate for their visa interview. n Applicants who are citizens of Canada, Bermuda, Bahamas and residents of certain other islands (see 8 CFR 212.1a) wishing to apply for F-1 or J-1 status at a Port of Entry into the United States must pay and process the SEVIS fee before appearing at the Port of Entry. n Nonimmigrants currently in the United States who apply for student or exchange visitor status must pay the fee prior to filing their change of status application.
How is the fee paid? n Through the Internet at www.FMJfee.com by using a credit card and completing the online Form I-901 (Fee for Remittance for Certain F and J Nonimmigrants); or n Through the mail by submitting a completed Form I-901 and a check or money order drawn on a US Bank and payable in US currency; or n By a third party such as a school or sponsor; or n By selected sponsors of an exchange program by submitting a bulk or group payment.
When must the fee be paid?
How will the payment be verified? The payment will be recorded in the SEVIS system. However, it is recommended to print out the Internet generated receipt be brought to the visa interview.
When must continuing students (F-1
nonimmigrants that have begun, but not finished, a program) pay the SEVIS fee? Continuing students must pay the SEVIS fee before: n Filing an application for reinstatement when they have been out of status for more than 5 months; n Or, when applying for a new visa or returning to the United States after an absence of more than 5 months that did not involve authorized overseas study; or n When filing an application for a change of status to an For J classification
When must continuing exchange visitors (J-1 nonimmigrants who have begun, but not finished a program) pay the SEVIS fee? Continuing exchange visitors must pay the SEVIS fee before: n Filing a reinstatement application after a substantive violation; or n Filing a reinstatement application after they have been out of status between 121 and 269 days; or
The fee must be paid to ensure that the payment can be deposited and recorded in SEVIS prior to the scheduled visa interview. The interviewing consular officer will confirm that the fee has been paid by accessing SEVIS. To allow for adequate processing time the fee must be paid:
n Applying for a change of exchange visitor category unless the new exchange visitor category is fee exempt
n At least three business days prior to the visa interview date for electronic submissions.
For additional information about this program please see SEVP on the web at https://www.fmjfee.com/i901fee/index.jsp or by phone at 785.330.1048 for the SEVIS I-901 Fee Payment Help Desk or by email at fmjfee.sevis@dhs.gov
n At least three business days before the scheduled visa interview for mail submissions to allow for delivery at the DHS address listed on the Form I-901. This time frame allows the fee payment to be deposited and recorded in SEVIS.
For visa related issues please see the Department of State: www. state.gov.
http://www.uidaho.edu/international | 208-885-8984 | ipo@uidaho.edu 25