Frequently Asked Questions

With so much to prepare for and so much to think about, it's natural for you to have questions. Take a look at the topics below to find answers. If you do not see the answer to your question listed below, send an email to orientation@fiuts.org.

 

What is the measles immunization requirement?

The University of Washington requires all students to show that they are protected from measles by providing proof of immunity. The goal of this requirement is to protect UW students, faculty, and staff from diseases like measles and mumps.

You must submit your proof of immunity to the Hall Health Center before you can register for your classes. View the Hall Health Center instruction page for information about how to submit your proof of immunity.

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I'm not an international student. Can I participate in International Welcome Programs?

Absolutely! The goal of our international welcome programs is to help new international students in their transition to the UW, and that includes meeting domestic students. For events, review the international welcome programs website and schedules for information on how to participate.

What is an I-94 and where might I get it?

An I-94 card is an electronic arrival/departure record issued by a Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Officer at U.S. ports of entry. If you arrive in the U.S. by airplane or ship you will be issued an online I-94 automatically. To access this record, visit www.cbp.gov/I94. Print a paper copy of your electronic I-94 card record and keep it with your other immigration documents.

It’s important to check that your electronic travel record is accurate and accessible. Sometimes CBP officers make errors in students’ electronic I-94 records. Some errors, especially those regarding visa type or date of expiration, can be harmful to your immigration status. If you see an error on your electronic I-94 record, it may be possible to have it corrected. Contact your ISS adviser immediately if you notice an error.

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Can you pick me up at the airport?

No, the UW and FIUTS do not arrange airport transportation. However, we are happy to offer advice about how best to get to the UW from the airport. If you participate in the FIUTS homestay program, your homestay host may be able to pick you up at the airport if their schedule allows.

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What should I do when I arrive on campus?

The U.S. government requires all F-1 and J-1 students to officially “check in” with their university when you begin a new program of study in the U.S. No appointment or meting is required - check-in at the UW is 100% online.

You will want to complete your online check-in as early as you can after you physically arrive in the U.S. To meet this requirement, follow the instructions below.

First, submit digital copies of your immigration documents to International Student Services (follow the instructions online). See the ISS post-arrival checklist for a list of immigration documents you need.

***Please note that incomplete check-ins endanger your status with the U.S. government. ISS will put a hold on your university account if this process is not done correctly.***

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I need to find a place to live. Where do I go?

Our housing page has advice about how to start your search for housing. This page has more information about on-campus dormitory housing and off-campus apartment options, as well as temporary and hostel accommodations.

For students arriving in Fall Quarter, you have several options for housing when you arrive on campus to participate in FIUTS International Welcome Weeks (EFS and/or Fall):

  • Freshmen who will participate in the Early Fall Start (EFS) program are eligible to apply for EFS housing, even if you do not plan to live in a UW residence hall for the academic year. For more information, visit the UW Housing & Food Services (HFS) website.

  • Undergraduate international students who are confirmed to live in the UW residence halls for the academic year are eligible to apply for Early Arrival Housing. Find more information, and the application (available in early August), visit the UW Housing & Food Services (HFS) Early Arrival Housing website.

  • Graduate students interested in 12-month apartment housing have additional options for early autumn move-in. Visit the UW Housing & Food Services (HFS) website.

  • You can apply to participate in the FIUTS Welcome Week Homestay Program, which will match you with a local family for your first week in Seattle.

  • You can stay in a hotel or hostel. A list of temporary housing options can be found our housing resources webpage. This is the best option for parents or family members if they are accompanying you.

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When will I hear from Housing & Food Services (HFS) about my housing assignment?

Housing and Food Services will notify you of your room selection appointment time in mid-June, and assignment confirmations will be emailed after room selection ends (usually in August). Please contact HFS directly for questions about your campus housing assignment.

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Can I do a homestay?

If you apply early enough, yes! The FIUTS Welcome Week Homestay program is a great chance to make local friends and get help during your first 7-10 days in Seattle. See our homestay page for details.

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Where can my parents/family stay?

Please see our temporary housing page -- it has a list of hotels and hostels in the University District.

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Am I allowed to work while I study at the UW?

Visa regulations restrict the types of employment international students can undertake. Before accepting any kind of employment, be sure it is allowed. View more information about employment on the International Student Services (ISS) website: F-1 students | J-1 students.

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Which International Welcome Weeks activities cost extra?

FIUTS Boat Cruise has a registration fee, but all other activities during Fall International Welcome Weeks are free. You can register for activities at the Welcome Lounge when you arrive in Seattle. Please see the full schedule for more details.

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Where can I sign up for International Welcome Weeks activities?

Most International Welcome Weeks activities are free, and you can just show up to participate. The Boat Cruise requires purchasing a ticket in advance due to limited space. Tickets are available online by contacting info@fiuts.org.

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Can I bring my family to International Welcome Weeks events?

Yes! Family members can attend most International Welcome Weeks events including the Community BBQ/Block Party and the Boat Cruise.

First Year Programs (non-FIUTS) Parent Orientations:

First Year Programs (FYP) offers a day-long orientation program for family members of first-year undergraduate (freshmen and transfer) students. Students may register family members when they register for the student Advising and Orientation (A&O) session and will be charged a registration fee to their student account. Parent Orientation is offered separately from the two-day student FYP A&O program and takes place on the second day of that program (Tuesdays and Thursdays). This orientation is through First Year Programs, not FIUTS.

For questions regarding FYP Parent Orientation, please contact First Year Programs at fyp@uw.edu.

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Are meals included during International Welcome Weeks?

No - you will need to get your own meals during the International Welcome Weeks period. However, the FIUTS Boat Cruise and Community BBQ/Block Party includes refreshments and food.

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Do I need health insurance during International Welcome Weeks and/or Early Fall Start?

We recommend it - you never know what can happen! The UW's International Student Health Insurance plan (ISHIP) begins in September, not necessarily when you arrive in the U.S. If you arrive early and experience a gap in insurance coverage, it is recommended that you purchase short-term insurance in case you become sick or get injured.

For any questions regarding coverage, or recommendations for a short-term insurance plan before the quarter begins, contact the ISHIP office so that they can assist you.

Visit the ISS website for additional health insurance information and resources for international students.

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