International Students

Welcome to our global campus! We’re so glad you’re part of our community. Below are some important tasks and resources specific to our international students on an F1 visa.

GEMS Admitted Students Next Steps

Check out this resource for F1 students from Graduate Enrollment Management Services (GEMS) to learn about requesting your I-20 document and planning for your arrival in the US.

ISS Pre-Arrival and Post-Arrival Checklist

Once you have confirmed enrollment (accepted the offer as outlined in Next Steps), start on the Pre-Arrival Checklist. Once you’ve entered the U.S., start on the Post-Arrival Checklist.

New Student Pre-Arrival Checklist
New Student Post-Arrival Checklist

Insurance

International students at UW are required by federal and state laws to maintain health insurance while studying in the United States.

International Student Health Insurance Program
ISHIP Benefit Booklets and Summary of Coverage

International Student Orientation

All new international students on F-1 or J-1 visas at the University of Washington Seattle are required by the university to attend an international student orientation. More information will be sent to you in the upcoming months.

CPT and OPT

PMP students are eligible for CPT (internship) and OPT (post-graduation work authorization) opportunities. In addition to the 12-month Optional Practical Training (OPT), F1 students are eligible for the 24 month STEM OPT extension, allowing you to gain valuable work experience in the US after graduation!

International Student Resources

International Student Services (ISS)

ISS is comprised of professionally trained advising staff who are available to help students understand benefits and restrictions of F-1 and J-1 visa status. Questions about your visa, travel documents, OPT, or CPT? Give your ISS adviser a call!

Foundation for International Understanding Through Students (FIUTS)

FIUTS organizes student programming that focuses on international awareness, cross cultural communication, and leadership. They offer many regular events around the greater Seattle area like conversation groups, hikes, and tours. It’s a great way to meet others and get connected to the Seattle community!

Center for International Relations & Cultural Leadership Exchange (CIRCLE)

CIRCLE is the UW’s primary portal to resources, community, and activities that help international and domestic students maximize their Husky Experience.

Registered Students Organization (RSO)

At UW, we have more than 1,000 registered student organizations (RSOs) on the Seattle campus. We encourage you to join one (or more!) to meet fellow Huskies and build your community.