International Students, Scholars & Programs

Review Our New International Student & Scholar Checklist

New International Students & Scholars

Welcome to William & Mary! The Office of International Students, Scholars & Programs (ISSP) at the Reves Center serves the international community at W&M and VIMS by providing advice on immigration, offering trips and events throughout the academic year and summer months, and working to help you succeed!

Our New International Students & Scholars webpage is a collection of information and resources for new international arrivals. Please review the resources to learn more about our office and how to prepare for your arrival on campus, beginning with the New International Student & Scholar Checklists. These checklists will guide you through the required and recommended steps to prepare to join our vibrant international community!

Visas Pre-Arrival Preparation & Resources Life in the U.S.

International Student Orientation

Have questions about how to maintain your immigration status while in the U.S.? Interested in learning more about academic and social life at William & Mary and VIMS? Need to open a bank account or get a U.S. SIM card after you arrive on campus? ISSP’s International Orientation sessions and welcome activities offer all this and more!

If you will be a student at W&M in F-1 or J-1 immigration status, please plan to attend a mandatory International Student Orientation session offered by ISSP. Specific requirements and session schedules will vary based on your academic level.

View Student Orientation Requirements

International Scholar Orientation

New J-1 scholars must attend an International Scholar Orientation after arriving in the U.S. as part of their required immigration check-in. Topics covered in this orientation include immigration and visa regulations, social security numbers, medical are in the U.S., safety and laws, transportation and driving, English Language resources, and how to get involved in the International Family Network.

Explore Resources for Living in the U.S.

ISSP Programs & Trips

ISSP holds a variety of programs throughout the academic year and summer months. Our programs are designed to support your success at William & Mary and to help you experience the U.S. as fully as possible.

Our International Peer Leader program begins supporting new international students who will begin at W&M in the Fall semester before they even arrive on campus. New Fall semester students are also invited to participate in our Virtual Conversation Partner Program.

International scholars and family members are invited to join the International Family Network (IFN) to be part of a supportive, international community in Williamsburg.

See all programs and trips

Resources for Family Members