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Mandatory Orientation Program

Mandatory international student orientation at Georgia State University will be held:

Spring 2013 Semester: January 9-10, 2013 [PDF] (Classes start January 14, 2013)

Summer 2013 Semester: June 5-6, 2013 (Classes start June 9, 2013)

Fall 2013 Semester: August 19-22, 2013 (Classes start August 26, 2013)

Spring 2014 Semester: January 8-9, 2014 (Classes start January 13, 2014)

New International Student Orientation is required of all international students in F-1 or J-1 status, and students that intend to change their status to F-1. Orientation is held the week prior to each semester, and is designed to help and assist with your transition to life in the United States, in Atlanta, and here at Georgia State University.

Please note: Undergraduate Students at Georgia State are invited to register for INCEPT - undergraduate orientation program. International Students on F-1 & J-1 visas should not register and pay for INCEPT. New International Student Orientation provided by ISSS is free of charge and will cover all necessary topics along with mandatory immigration sessions.

All new international students must report on the first day of orientation at 8:00 a.m. for the semester you are admitted. You should bring your passport, I-20 or DS-2019, I-94 card, insurance documents if applicable, and any other immigration documents (including dependents’ documents) that you may have. It is advisable that you arrive and find housing in the Atlanta area prior to orientation. However, please bear in mind that U.S. immigration regulations do not allow international students to enter the U.S. more than 30 days prior to the start date on your I-20 (item #5) or DS-2019 (item #3).

If you are unable to arrive in Atlanta for orientation by the first day of orientation, you must notify International Student and Scholar Services.

The goals of new international student orientation are as follows:

To provide information on the following topics:

  • federal immigration regulations, and individual responsibilities as an F or J student
  • how to navigate the campus & administration of Georgia State University
  • basic needs such as housing, transportation, food and money
  • cultural adjustment to life in the United States and in Atlanta
  • unique characteristics of the U.S. classroom

 To carry out various admistrative processes for the university:

  • copy immigration documents (passport, visa, I-20 or DS-2019, I-94)
  • GSTEP and other English placement testing
  • Math Placement Exam (for freshmen only)
  • academic advising
  • course registration

To create connections:

  • with other new students to form initial friendships
  • with continuing students for advice and support
  • with the students’ academic departments
  • with relevant campus services, programs and facilities

To welcome the students to Georgia State in a way that is positive, friendly and helpful.