Mandatory Check In and Orientation
Validation of Program Participation - Mandatory ISS Check In
When an exchange visitor enters the US for the first time, s/he is in “Initial” SEVIS status. The process of converting an exchange visitor from “Initial” to “Active” is the Validation of Program Participation. Once in the United States and in Oklahoma, the exchange visitor must report to Oklahoma State University’s Office of International Students and Scholars (ISS) immediately after arrival. The Responsible Officer will validate program participation in the SEVIS system. If an exchange visitor is not validated in this system within 30 days of the program start date (or 30 days after a transfer effective date), the exchange visitor will be considered a “no show” and program participation is effectively cancelled or “terminated.” If terminated, an exchange visitor must go through a lengthy process (up to several months) of requesting re-instatement through the U.S. Department of State. Such errors may limit exchange visitors from inviting dependents or traveling while corrections are pending. Hence, validation within a few days of arrival is extremely important.
To validate program participation, exchange visitors must bring the following documents to the ISS Office and complete several forms:
BRING:
- Passport
- I-94 Card
- DS-2019 Form
- Current US Address & Contact Information
COMPLETE:
- Data Information Sheet
- OSU Change of Address Form
- Confirmation of Insurance Coverage Form
- Acceptance of Responsibility
- Other forms as required for specific program
Exchange visitor registration and orientation
The Office of International Students and Scholars (ISS) provides initial assistance to Exchange Visitors as they begin their adjustment process. ISS assists scholars in their efforts to navigate OSU systems and the greater Stillwater community. This includes assistance with bursar accounts, banking, transportation, housing and web access.
After checking in with the Office of International Students and Scholars, scholars are required to establish a bursar account, obtain an OSU ID card, and register for a mandatory J-1 Scholar Orientation Session provided by the Office of International Students and Scholars. Should a scholar not be able to attend one of the formal J-1 Scholar Orientation Sessions, they will receive a personal, one-on-one orientation.
The International Tax Coordinator, located in ISS, will advise the scholars on employment and taxation procedures before referring the scholar to the administrative official in the hosting department.
Departments are required to provide further in-depth administrative, technical and cultural orientation and support throughout the program. Also, departments and scholars alike should make available diverse opportunities for intercultural exchange beyond the office and classrooms.