Winter quarter 2026 is underway, and we wanted to make sure you know how International Student Services can help you with immigration related matters. Whether you have questions about immigration requirements, employment benefits, or general status concerns, multiple support options are available.
Below is an overview of ISS services and how to connect with our team this quarter.
Office Hours
The ISS staff work Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. At certain times, our office doors are closed for staff meetings, trainings, and to allow us time to prioritize processing requests such as travel signature, CPT, and OPT requests. Other times, our doors are open and you can stop by to get quick questions answered at our front desk or meet with an advisor to discuss complex questions.
Front Desk Hours
Starting this quarter, our lobby will be open Monday through Friday, 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. During front desk hours, you can receive general assistance with quick questions, learn about ISS and campus resources, or pick up a document such as an SSN or ITIN letter. Front desk support is available for quick questions and support that does not require a full advising appointment. For advising questions, email us or stop by during our advising hours.
Advising Hours
Virtual advising happens Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday starting at 9:00 AM through Zoom. To speak with an advisor during virtual advising, you will first need to complete our check-in form to reserve a spot. The form typically opens 5 minutes before virtual advising begins and closes as soon as all advising slots have been filled.
In-person advising is held Monday through Thursday, 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM. To speak with an advisor, first check in with our front desk team. They will ask you some questions and determine the best way to assist you. If meeting with an advisor is the best option, we will schedule you for the next available timeslot, but you may need to wait briefly. Each appointment lasts around 10 minutes. Note that timeslots can fill up quickly, especially for a few weeks at the start and end of each quarter. For the best opportunity to meet with our advising team, we recommend you arrive by 1:00 PM when sign in for drop-in advising begins.
Information Sessions
ISS is hosting several information sessions during winter quarter to help you stay informed on a number of topics. These sessions cover common topics such as employment options, taking time off, and filing taxes. Information sessions help students learn the basics in a group setting and get quick questions answered.
- CPT Information Session – January 30th and March 13th
- OPT Information Session – January 16th and February 27th
- STEM OPT Information Session – February 13th
- Taking Time off and Returning to UW – February 6th (Register)
- Employment Options for International Alumni – January 20th (Register)
- Filing Taxes as an International Student – TBD
Other Ways to Contact ISS
You do not need to visit the office in person to get help. You can also reach ISS through the following ways:
- Email: You can email ISS with questions or concerns at any time. Emails are answered during regular business hours and usually take 2-4 days.
- Live Chat: Live chat is available for quick questions and general guidance. Connect with our front desk team by clicking on the icon on our website.
- Phone: We accept phone calls Monday – Friday, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM. Speak with a team member to get answers to your quick questions.
These options are especially useful for students who are off campus, managing busy schedules, or need brief clarification.
ISS looks forward to supporting our F-1 and J-1 international students throughout the 2026 Winter Quarter. We encourage you to reach out early with questions and to take advantage of all our available services.