Incoming International Students

Pre-Orientation Program for International Students

This year’s International Student Orientation Program begins with international student move-in on Monday, August 18, 2025. All new F-1 and J-1 students are expected to attend and arrive on campus on that date. You may check in to your housing at any time on that day (including after normal business hours). There is no charge to students for attending International Orientation. Students arriving in Cleveland earlier than the arrival day are responsible for making their own housing and arrival arrangements before the formal move-in. You can contact Residence Life to see if an early arrival may be possible (charges will apply).

Dual-citizens, permanent residents, US citizens living abroad, and other non-F-1 and J-1 visa holders are welcome to email isss@oberlin.edu to request to attend International Orientation. Requests from non-F-1 and J-1 visa holders to attend must be made before August 1. Please see the Orientation schedule for all new students for other programming. Students who opt-in to International Orientation and move in but do not attend the orientation events will have the housing and dining charges normally paid by ISSS applied to their student account.

The current version of the International Student Pre-Orientation Schedule is available here.

The International Orientation Program provides you with an opportunity to meet new and returning international students. It’s also your best opportunity to learn about visa and employment regulations, cultural and academic adjustment issues, housing and dining, financial aid, and everyday life in Oberlin and the United States.

Related Document

If you are already in the United States on an F-1 visa, please complete your SEVIS transfer information here:

• Transfer-in verification form