International Orientation & Welcome Series
Learn more about the International Orientation and Welcome Series for newly admitted F-1 and J-1 students starting at UB.
On this page:
Spring 2021 International Orientation and Welcome Series Overview
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:
- Pre-arrival events for all incoming international students; new and transfer undergraduate international students will also be required to complete online orientation modules.
- Virtual ISS Check-in - All graduate and undergraduate students will complete a virtual ISS Check-in. ISS will not be hosting the ISS Check-in in-person in support of the health and safety of students, staff and faculty.
- Virtual workshops, programs and events supporting student transition to UB during Spring 2021 International Orientation week.
- Welcome Series virtual programing during the first 6 weeks of classes in support of new student academic, personal and profession success.
International Orientation & Welcome Series Schedule
Get your International Orientation and Welcome Series Guide (IOWS Guide) now!
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 review your list of pre-arrival and post-arrival tasks and to gain access to valuable resources and critical information tin 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:
- Download the “Guidebook” app on your smart phone.
- Search “Guides” for: UB International Orientation and Welcome Series
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.
- App passwords must be at least eight characters in length and contain at least one number.
- First (Given) and last (family) name are required fields to set up your account and complete your profile.
Remember to check out our Facebook page for information about activities hosted by ISS throughout the year!
Spring 2021 International Orientation and Welcome Series
Starts Monday, January 25, 2021
Recommended latest arrival date: Monday, January 25
See recorded sessions here.
Orientation Modules for Undergraduate Students
New and Transfer Undergraduate Students ONLY!
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.
Please plan to complete this requirement between December 14, 2020 and January 24, 2021
Completion of these modules is required.
*Part 2 of your Orientation will begin January 25.
ISS Check-in
Information is available on our New International Student Check-In page. Be sure you complete this requirement!
Immigration Session
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).
SPEAK/ESL
SPEAK
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.
International Orientation & Welcome Series
New Student FAQs
Arriving Late
You may enter the U.S. no more than 30 days prior to the start date listed on your I-20/DS-2019. Students should plan to arrive in Buffalo in January, keeping in mind the required quarantine guidance.
Orientation begins Monday, January 25 and classes begin on Monday, February 1. Arriving by January 25 will allow to you participate and engage in International Orientation programs and events in the same time zone instead of having to adjust for time differences.
While we understand that students may experience visa and travel delays due to COVID-19, we do recommend arriving before the start of classes on Monday, February 1.
The latest date that student can arrival for the Spring 2021 semester is Friday, February 5.
Undergraduate Students
- Undergraduate students must contact International Admissions (intadmit@buffalo.edu) to request late arrival permission if they will arrive after 2/1/2021.
Graduate Students
- Graduate students must contact their academic department to request late arrival permission if they will arrive after 2/1/2021.
Don't Forget!
We do not recommend arriving late to UB, however, sometimes situations occur where students are delayed in coming to Buffalo. If you do arrive late into Buffalo, you will need to complete your ISS Check-in.
Attending Welcome Series Events
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.
Welcome Series & Orientation Fee
The cost of the International Orientation & Welcome Series is $105.
Having trouble with your UBIT Account?
Visit buffalo.edu/ubit/help for information and assistance.