Global Business Exchange Programs

Incoming Exchange Students: Pre-Arrival Guide

Prior to Arrival

Getting a Visa to come to United States
Along with this brochure or shortly thereafter, you should receive the Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitors, commonly known as the DS2019 form, from the Office of International Education Services. Please note that the process of your application and the issuing of the IAP-66 may take up to four weeks. To apply for your student's visa take the DS2019, letter of admission, valid passport, and evidence of financial support to the nearest United State Embassy or Consulate in your country.

Health Insurance and Immunization
In order to study in the United States, you will be investing a considerable amount of time, energy and money. To protect yourself and your investment in an education, it is important that you maintain good physical and mental health. It is common for students experiencing changes in climate, diet and other habits, to encounter some health problems. The University Health Care Center can provide you, your spouse and your children, or other family members with limited medical care and health education (additional fees may be involved for dependants).

However, a major health problem or accident involving hospital or specialist's treatment will be very costly and require care by an off-campus medical provider. For these reasons, each student must carry health insurance. Additionally, we highly recommend that you purchase health insurance for any dependents. It is important to understand the specific conditions of a policy and the extent of its coverage, especially since most health insurance plans in the U.S. do not cover all medical expenses. If possible, it is advisable to have medical, dental, and optical checkups at home to correct any problems before leaving. Over-the-counter medications are available, but it can be confusing to know which one to purchase; it is advisable to bring sufficient medication that you are taking or anticipate needing.

Upon arrival we will explain the health insurance requirements for F-1 and J-1 students who are not covered by graduate assistantship insurance benefits. You may apply for health insurance coverage at that time. J- I students with assistantships will need to buy a supplementary repatriation and medical evacuation policy to comply with the Federal Health Insurance Regulations. All students must bring complete health records for themselves and their dependents. Records of immunizations (TB, NUAR, DPT, etc.), x-rays, and skin tests should be carried with you to provide to the Health Center with an accurate summary of your health situation. The enclosed "Immunization Form" must be completed by your physician. Failure to submit the required records to the Health Center may lead to a registration block (that is, you may not be able to register for classes in the following semester).