Learn more about the International Orientation and Welcome Series for newly admitted F-1 and J-1 students starting at UB.
Spring 2021 International Orientation and Welcome Series features virtual programs and events with helpful information and tools that support new students to engage with, connect to, and thrive at the University at Buffalo. The Spring 2021 International Orientation will consist of:
We require all new international student to download the International Orientation and Welcome Series Guide. Your full IOWS Guide is only available by using the Guidebook app on your smart phone. Use the IOWS Guide to review your list of pre-arrival and post-arrival tasks and to gain access to valuable resources and critical information in support your successful transition to the University at Buffalo.
Scan to download your Spring 2021 International Orientation and Welcome Series Guide.
To get the IOWS Guide:
If you do not have a smart phone now, or will not be getting one until after you arrive in the U.S., a link to the view a web version of the Spring 2021 guide is below.
After opening the IOWS Guide:
1. Tap the icon in the top-right corner of the app screen to create your account and log in.
2. To create your account, click "Sign up with Email." Enter your UB email address and create your password.
Remember to check out our Facebook page for information about activities hosted by ISS throughout the year!
Starts Monday, January 25, 2021
Recommended latest arrival date: Monday, January 25
See recorded sessions here.
Part 1* of your Orientation program will be available in December. All new undergraduate students (international and domestic) must complete a set of orientation modules. These virtual orientation modules provide you with basic information about the University at Buffalo that is essential to your success at UB. Some of the information presented in the program is required by New York State.
To access the orientation modules, please refer the log in instruction that will be sent in December from ISS to your email inbox. If you are unable to find the email after December, please contact ISS (iss@buffalo.edu) for log in information.
Completion of these modules is required.
*Part 2 of your Orientation will begin January 25.
All international students must attend the Your Role in the UB Community session and one of the Immigration sessions.
To register for classes or make changes to your schedule, you must complete your New International Student Check-in, take any required tests (SPEAK), register for ESL classes (if required), submit your Health Background & Immunization Forms, receive immunizations (if required), and address any other holds on your UB Student Account (if applicable).
All new or current graduate students offered an assistantship are required to take SPEAK. Graduate students who have an ELI hold are expected to take the SPEAK (Speaking Proficiency English Assessment Kit) before being permitted to register for classes and cleared for teaching duties.
Online SPEAK registration information will be available soon. SPEAK information as well as a practice test can be found on ELI’s website.
If you miss the SPEAK test times, your course registration will be delayed.
If you have questions about an ELI hold, contact the English Language Institute for assistance.
The Welcome Series sessions and activities are informative, useful, and important. During the Welcome Series, you can accomplish practical tasks like collecting your University ID card, opening a bank account, buying a cell phone and opening a cell phone account, and receiving immunizations. You will also have the opportunity to meet other students and have fun!
Last, attendance at the Immigration Session is required for all new international students. Please refer to the orientation schedule for all other mandatory programs.
The cost of the International Orientation & Welcome Series is $105.
Visit buffalo.edu/ubit/help for information and assistance.