If you’re an F-1 or J-1 international student, you may need to apply for a Social Security number (SSN) while studying in the U.S. This number is used by the U.S. government to track your earnings over your lifetime. It is not a work permit, but rather a unique identifier that stays with you permanently once issued. SSN vs. ITIN If you work in the U.S., you must have proper work authorization and an SSN. However, if you don’t work…
Category: Newsletter
Weekly updates and notices.
Protect Yourself from Scams Targeting International Students
International Student Services (ISS) has recently seen an increase in scams targeting F and J international students. These scams can be very convincing, and scammers often pretend to be government officials, immigration officers, or even University of Washington employees. They may claim that your visa will be canceled or that you’re in trouble with the law unless you pay immediately or share personal information. These messages can sound urgent and frightening, but it’s important to remember: Real government agencies and…
Jeff Shih Student Loan Now Open for the 25-26 Academic Year
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 and completing their degree objectives. Eligibility: Graduate students must be enrolled for 5 credits or more during the quarter in which they receive the loan. Undergraduate students must be enrolled for 6 credits or more…
Campus Spotlight: UW CIRCLE
The Center for International Relations & Cultural Leadership Exchange (CIRCLE) is here to help international students thrive at the University of Washington. Whether you are looking for 1:1 support, new friends, or opportunities to connect with campus life, CIRCLE offers programs and services designed with international students in mind. Personalized Support CIRCLE provides 1:1 coaching and case management to help you succeed at UW. From student success and wellbeing coaching to personalized support with challenges you may face, CIRCLE staff…
All about MyISSS
As an F or J international student, staying on top of your immigration requirements is an important part of your student experience. To help you manage this, the University uses MyISSS, your dedicated online immigration portal. What is MyISSS? MyISSS (pronounced “my I-triple-S“) is your resource for immigration-related request forms and information. This resource allows you to submit requests to the ISS office, view information related to your F or J immigration record, and receive communications from our office. What…
Autumn 2025: A Warm Welcome to the UW
As autumn quarter begins, I want to warmly welcome all of our international students to Seattle and the University of Washington! Autumn is one of the most beautiful times on campus with the changing leaves, crisp air, excitement and energy of a new academic year. This makes UW a truly special place to be. For those of you returning, I hope you had a restful summer break and you are re-energized to continue your studies. For those of you joining…
Reminders and Tips for Registering for Classes
As we kick off the quarter, it’s important to stay on top of class registration to ensure you’re meeting visa requirements and academic goals. Here are a few tips to help you navigate the process smoothly! Full-Time Enrollment F-1 and J-1 students are required to enroll in full-time coursework each quarter: 12 credits for undergraduates 10 credits for graduate students Be sure you’re registered for the correct number of credits by September 23rd. Maintaining full-time status is critical for your…
Things To Know About ISHIP for Autumn 2025
Each Autumn quarter the ISHIP Office receives many questions about enrolling in ISHIP, getting your LifeWise insurance card, and questions about the coverage ISHIP provides. Here’s what you can expect from ISHIP as you start Autumn quarter. Important information for new students enrolled in ISHIP: ISHIP coverage begins on 9/1 BUT you must register for Autumn quarter classes to activate your ISHIP coverage. LifeWise will send you a Welcome Email the week after you register for Autumn quarter classes OR the week…
Preparing for your Return to the UW
As you get ready to return to the UW for the 2025-2026 academic year, here are a few important reminders to help you stay on track with your immigration and have another successful year. 1. Prepare Your Documents for Entry When you travel back to the U.S., make sure you carry (not pack in checked luggage) the documents you’ll need to show at the port of entry: A valid passport (valid for at least six months beyond your entry date)…
5 Things to Know as a New International Student
Starting your journey at the University of Washington as a new international student is exciting, but we know it can also feel overwhelming, especially if you’re moving to the U.S. for the first time. To help you prepare, here are five important things every new F or J international student should know as they begin their studies at the UW. 1. Prepare Your Documents for Entry When you travel to the U.S., make sure you carry (not pack in checked…