You have your admission letter in hand. Now is the time to get your visa, arrange transportation to the U.S., and determine what you will need while living in Buffalo. But you don't have to figure it out on your own. The International Student Services office is your resource for all things immigration and arrival.
International Student Services provides the services and support to welcome you to your new home at UB.
Our friendly staff members— including international students —can help address your immigration concerns, help you adjust to life in Buffalo and can even help introduce you to all the Buffalo-Niagara region has to offer.
Below is a list of just some of the topics covered on the International Student Services' website:
Check-in is completed online and you can get started once you have paid your tuition deposit.
This process lets us know your progress in obtaining your visa and making travel plans. It also helps you activate your student record, giving you access to course registration before you physically arrive on campus.
To come to the U.S. to study, you will need to apply for a visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate.
Most international students come to the U.S. on F-1 visas, while some come on J-1 visas. However, there are some other visa categories that permit studying (e.g., H-1B, H-4, L-2, E-2, etc.).
Your visa category will determine many aspects of your life in the U.S. (e.g., your studies, employment, vacation, travel). While most students will have to follow F-1 immigration regulations, some will follow other regulations.
If you are already in the U.S. as an F-1 or J-1 student, it may be possible to transfer your SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) record from your current school to UB.
Attending the International Student Welcome Series will prepare you for a successful transition to UB. You can greatly benefit from our comprehensive Welcome Series program!
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!
Attendance at the Immigration Session is required for all new international students. Please refer to the orientation schedule for all other mandatory programs.
