Welcome to the University of California, Merced!
We are thrilled that you have decided to join our community of scholars from around the world. As the Office of International Students & Scholars, we are here to support you throughout your journey at UC Merced.
Here are the next steps you need to take to make sure you are ready to start your academic journey:
1.
Newly admitted students applying for their F-1 student visa must submit the Request for Form I-20 and Financial Support Verification Form to the International Students and Scholars Office (ISS). Both forms must be submitted to obtain your Form I-20. After receiving these forms, a copy of your passport and proof of financial support, your Form I-20 will be created and mailed to you. This generally takes two to three weeks. J-1 visa students have a separate process to obtain their Form DS-2019. If you are eligible for a J-1 student visa, the appropriate forms will be emailed to you.
2.
After you receive your Form I-20 or Form DS-2019, you are ready to apply for your U.S. student visa. Visit our website for instructions on how to apply for your F-1 or J-1 student visa. You must pay your SEVIS I-901 fee before you make your visa appointment.
3.
After receiving your visa approval, reserve your airfare in time to arrive for the mandatory international student orientation and arrange for your housing. The UC Merced Housing and Residence Life website and our Arrival Guide provide help with your pre-arrival planning.
4.
Register for your courses. You can email your academic or faculty advisor if you are unable to attend the campus-wide orientation. You can also visit the Registrar's website for instructions on how to register for courses.
5.
Put our mandatory New International Student Orientation on your calendar. No registration is required. Both the university-wide orientation and the OIA international student orientation are essential to a successful beginning at UC Merced. Further information on our orientations can be found on our orientation web page by clicking here.
6.
Be sure to review the International Student Handbook for important information.
