The winter season is a time filled with holidays, travel, and reconnecting. Whether you are traveling home or taking a break, careful planning is key to a smooth and stress-free journey. Below, we have highlighted important information to help with a smooth return to the United States if you are planning to travel in the next few months. Required Travel Documents Make sure to carry the following documents with you: Valid Passport: Must be valid for at least six months…
Author: Justin Mellish
Winter Travel Tips for Current Students
As winter break approaches, many of you may be preparing to travel home or explore new destinations. Whether you’re embarking on an adventure or heading back to spend time with family or friends, here are some key reminders and tips to ensure a smooth journey and a seamless return to the University of Washington. Prepare for Re-Entry to the U.S. To return for the start of the winter quarter on January 6, make sure you have the following items in…
Winter Quarter 2025 Enrollment Reminders
As winter quarter 2025 approaches, it’s time to make sure you meet the enrollment requirements to maintain your F-1 or J-1 status. Follow these guidelines to ensure you remain in compliance with immigration regulations: Full-Time Enrollment Requirements F-1 and J-1 students must be enrolled full-time during the academic year. For most students, this means: Undergraduate students: A minimum of 12 credits. Graduate students: Typically a minimum of 10 credits (or fewer if you enrolled in thesis or dissertation coursework). Online…
Reporting Incidents as a J-1 Student
As a J-1 student at the University of Washington, your well-being and success are our top priorities. While your time here may be exciting, unexpected challenges can sometimes arise. If they do, it’s important to let the International Student Services (ISS) team know so we can help. Reporting Incidents As part of our role as a J-1 program sponsor, UW is required to notify the U.S. Department of State about certain situations involving J-1 students. This includes things like: A…
Jeff Shih Student Loan Now Open for the 24-25 Academic Year
The Shih loan is now closed for the 2024-25 academic year. It will reopen again in later summer/early fall for the 2025-26 year. Please contact the Office of Student Financial Aid if you have questions. UW international graduate and undergraduate students are eligible to apply for the Jeff Shih Student Loan. The loans are made possible through a generous gift from Jeff Shih, a Seattle and San Francisco businessman and are intended to help international students in financing their education…
Taking an Alternate Vacation Quarter in Winter 2025
If you’re an F-1 international student at the University of Washington, you typically take your annual vacation during the summer quarter. However, some students may qualify to take their vacation quarter during the winter instead. This is called an alternate vacation quarter. Here’s a guide to help you determine if an alternate vacation quarter is right for you and what steps to take. What Is an Alternate Vacation Quarter? An alternate vacation quarter allows eligible students to take a break…
Enter the UW Global Photo Contest!
The UW is celebrating global experiences this November! The UW Global Photo Contest is open to the entire UW community -students, faculty, staff and alumni. Photos can reflect study abroad, international research, personal global travel and/or cross-cultural experiences. Contest Details: Open to all members of the UW community Four categories: Husky spirit – “Dawgs Abroad,” Day in the Life of a Study Abroad Student, International Research in Action, Cross-Cultural Experiences Deadline to submit photos: November 30, 2024 For more information…
Navigating the U.S. Election Season as an International Student
Election season in the U.S. can feel intense, especially if you’re new to the country’s political climate. From news stories to conversations on campus, it seems like everyone’s talking about it! If you’re feeling overwhelmed or just unsure about what it all means for you as an international student, we’ve got some tips and resources to help you stay informed and keep the stress in check. Mental Health Resources Navigating the heightened tensions of election season can be emotionally draining….
DHS Announces Special Student Relief for Students from Lebanon
Summary On October 17, 2024 the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced Special Student Relief (SSR) to F-1 students from Lebanon experiencing economic hardship due to the current crisis in the country. The designation suspends certain on-campus and off-campus regulations from July 26, 2024 and is set to expire on January 25, 2026. What is Special Student Relief? Special Student Relief (SSR) is the suspension of specific immigration regulations for F-1 students who face unexpected hardship due to a situation…
Employment Options and Limitations for F-1 International Students
As an F-1 student, working in the U.S. can help you gain experience, meet people, and earn extra money. However, you must follow specific rules to maintain your F-1 status. Here’s a quick guide to your options: On-Campus Employment F-1 students can work on campus for up to 20 hours per week during the school year and full-time during breaks (like summer or winter holidays). Jobs might include roles in the library, dining spaces, or university and department offices. No…