Greetings from the Office of International Affairs at The Ohio State University!
Over the next few months we will send you weekly emails
to help you plan for your arrival to Ohio State. In the meantime, please explore ourwebsite, and you are always welcome to email us at iss@osu.edu.
Have a wonderful summer and we look forward to meeting you this fall!
Immigration Check-In and Orientation
The Office of International Affairs encourages all students to arrive 2 - 3 weeks before the start of classes on Tuesday, August 21.
Students who arrive early will have better course availability, more time to explore Columbus and more opportunities to meet other students.
In previous emails we indicated that the immigration check-in registration would begin June 1. However, immigration check-in registration may be available earlier, so that you can begin making your travel plans.
We will send you a special announcement email next week with a new date.
Applying for a U.S. Visa
Information about U.S. consulate policies, procedures, and requirements can be obtained from the U.S. Department of State.
Applicants for student visas usually apply at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in the country of their permanent residence. Click here for the list of websites for U.S. Embassies and Consulates. Although visa applicants may apply at any U.S. consular office, it may be more difficult to qualify for the visa outside the country of permanent residence. Required documents/evidence:
I-20 or DS-2019
Evidence of financial ability to meet expenses
Evidence of English ability sufficient for course of study
Evidence of intent to depart the U.S. after completion of studies
Passport valid for at least 6 months
Photograph (check with embassy for specific dimensions)
International students are required to purchase Ohio State Student Health Insurance and are automatically enrolled in the Comprehensive Plan. Coverage for autumn semester 2018 will begin on August 14, 2018. The fees will be posted to your student account after you register for classes. International students arriving before August 14, 2018 are not covered by the Comprehensive Student Plan until this date. Accordingly, we encourage all international students enrolling at Ohio State for the first time to purchase the University's interim health insurance plan.
If there are any questions regarding interim insurance, please contact the Student Health Insurance Office at 614-688-7979 or shi_info@osu.edu.
Health Screening and Vaccination Requirements
All new international students (including those returning from a leave of absence) are required to complete a health screening through Student Health Services.
Complete the vaccination form to the best of your ability and have it verified by a medical provider before your arrival. Some vaccinations that are unavailable in certain countries are available in the United States and covered by your student health insurance.
Join the New Ohio State International Students - Autumn 2018 Facebook group using your Ohio State email. The group will post about events happening during orientation, and you can meet and chat with your fellow new Buckeyes! Also like the Office of International Affairs and Global Engagement's Facebook pages to stay updated on events throughout the year. Chinese students can follow the China Gateway's WeChat for updates about Pre-Departure Orientation, traveling to the U.S. and activities here on campus! Follow the account by scanning the QR code.
Looking for More Information?
Visit our website to review information from previous emails and or answers to frequently asked questions. If you don't find what you're looking for, contact iss@osu.edu.
We are looking forward to seeing you here in Columbus! Please allow us to join the other offices on campus in congratulating you on your acceptance to The Ohio State University.
Gateway's WeChat for updates about Pre-Departure Orientation, traveling to the U.S. and activities here on campus! Follow the account by scanning the QR code.
