Office of International Education

International Student Orientation - Spring 2026

Welcome to International Student Orientation! As you look at the schedule, you'll notice that some sessions are required and others are optional. We encourage you to attend the optional sessions to learn more about UVM and Burlington. We look forward to seeing you!

Things you should know for this week:

  • Most orientation sessions are in the Livak Ballroom on the 4th floor of the Davis Center. Find it here on the campus map.
  • Not sure where to eat? Check out the "Food This Week" handout in your orientation folder.
  • Emergency? If you need the police or immediate medical attention, call 911. Otherwise, talk to an OIE staff member during the day or call UVM Police Services at +1-802-656-3473.

Your checklist for this week:

Tuesday, January 6

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Check-in (Required) 
10:00AM-4:00PM, Living/Learning B-180 - Office of International Education

Check in for orientation! Students living on campus should check into their residence hall room first, leave their belongings, and then come to check in with us. This only takes a few minutes and can happen anytime during the hours listed above.  

 

Campus Tour 
10:30AM-12:00PM, Meet in Living/Learning B-180 - Office of International Education

This is a walking tour of campus - dress for the weather (and wear comfortable shoes).

 

Campus Tour
1:00PM-2:30PM, Meet in Living/Learning B-180 - Office of International Education

This is a walking tour of campus - dress for the weather (and wear comfortable shoes).

 

Shopping Trip 
1:30PM-3:30PM, Meet in Living/Learning B-180 - Office of International Education

Join other new students to get the things you need to start your life in Burlington. Make sure you have the "GMT Ride Ready" app downloaded on your phone for the bus (or bring small change), plus money to make your purchases. There will be the opportunity to set up cell phones on these trips as well - bring your immigration documents if you wish to do so.

 

Shopping Trip 
3:00PM-5:00PM, Meet in Living/Learning B-180 - Office of International Education

Join other new students to get the things you need to start your life in Burlington. Make sure you have the "GMT Ride Ready" app downloaded on your phone for the bus (or bring small change), plus money to make your purchases. There will be the opportunity to set up cell phones on these trips as well - bring your immigration documents if you wish to do so.

 

Lasagna and Game Night 
5:30PM-7:30PM, Living/Learning Fireplace Lounge

Join us for an evening of lasagna and Games! This is a great opportunity to meet other new international students in a fun and low-key setting. Plus, enjoy a free dinner on us!

Wednesday, January 7

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Late Check-in (Required if you did not check in on Tuesday) 
9:00AM-9:45AM, Living/Learning B-180 - Office of International Education

Late check-in for students who arrived after hours on Tuesday. Check in at your room first and then come to check in with us. 

 

Welcome Event (Required) 
10:00AM-11:00AM, Livak Ballroom, Davis Center 4th floor

Come ready to get to know new students, learn about UVM, and start your orientation week with lots of energy!

 

Going to University in the US (Required - Undergraduate & Exchange Students Only)
11:00AM-12:00PM, Livak Ballroom, Davis Center 4th floor

Get tips for how to succeed academically in an American university, and learn how to get involved outside of the classroom.

 

Being a Graduate Student in the US (Required - Graduate Students Only)
11:00AM-12:00PM, Handy Family Room, Davis Center 4th floor

Going to university in the US is different than going to university in other countries.  Even if you were an undergraduate in the US, you'll find the graduate experience very different. Come learn about expectations for graduate students at UVM and get some tips for success.

 

Health and Safety (Required)
1:30PM-2:15PM, Livak Ballroom, Davis Center 4th floor

Learn about how to stay healthy and safe, including where to go when you're sick, and who to call in an emergency.

 

Campus Rec Tour
2:30PM-3:30PM, Meet in lobby of Patrick Gym

Tour UVM's athletic facilities and learn how to access and enjoy everything it has to offer, including fitness classes, the fitness center, indoor ice rink, pool, rock climbing wall, and much more. 

 

Shopping Trips
3:00PM-5:00PM, Meet in Living/Learning B-180 - Office of International Education

Join other new students to get the things you need to start your life in Burlington. There will be the opportunity to set up cell phones on this trips as well - bring your immigration documents if you wish to do so. 

 

Writing Centers and Library Tour
3:45PM-4:45PM, Meet in front of Howe Library

Tour the UVM Library and the various support services it houses. 

 

International Trivia Night
6:30PM-8:00PM, Living/Learning Fireplace Lounge

Join a team for an evening of friendly competition. We will be asking questions about everything from UVM history to world pop culture. The winning team will get some prizes, and everyone will meet new friends! Food will NOT be provided - eat dinner first!

Thursday, January 8

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Your Immigration Rules (Required)
10:00AM-10:45AM, Livak Ballroom, Davis Center 4th floor

Learn about the rules of F-1 and J-1 status, including enrollment requirements, work options and how to re-enter the US after traveling internationally. 

 

Cultural Life in the USA (Required)
11:00AM-12:30PM, Livak Ballroom, Davis Center 4th floor

Let's talk about the unwritten rules of living in the US and tips for success living away from your home country. 

 

Scavenger Hunt
1:45PM-2:45PM, Meet at Living/Learning B-101 - Office of International Education

With a group of other new students, follow clues to learn more about places on campus.

 

Campus-wide New Student Orientation (Required)
3:00PM-Sunday, Locations vary

See your New Student Orientation schedule for details. Please note that event details will vary depending on the orientation group you are in. Not all new international students will be in the same group. You will receive orientation group details in closer to arrival.

 

Friday, January 9

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Walk-in Hours Advising
1:00PM-4:00PM, Living/Learning B-101 - Office of International Education

Stop by the Office of International Education for quick questions and support from our advising staff.