International Orientation

Welcome to Grand View University!

As an incoming international Viking, you are required to attend Grand View’s International Student Orientation. The purpose of this orientation program is to help new international students get acclimated to the campus as well as introduce you to Grand View and the surrounding community resources. We will also review international student policies and SEVP guidelines so that you remain compliant for continued international study. You will need to schedule this individual orientation time with Alex Piedras upon arrival. You may reach out to Alex at 515-263-6107 or apiedras @ grandview.edu.

Spring 2025 Schedule

Check-in
Thursday, January 9, 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
or
Friday, January 10, 8:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Spring Semester Classes Begin
Monday, January 13

As an incoming international Viking, you are required to begin your in-person courses at Grand View by January 13, 2025.

Important Arrival Information:

If you are planning to live on campus, you should plan to arrive and check in at the Henning Student Center before proceeding to your residence hall on Thursday, January 9 between 1:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. or on Friday, January 10 between 8:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. We can accommodate later arrivals on a case-by-case basis. Housing during this time will be at no additional cost to you. Your meal plan will begin with the Sunday evening meal on January 12th, however, dining services  will likely be open prior to that where meals can be purchased.

If this is your first time attending college in the United States, you will receive a welcome basket at your check-in. The basket will include a pillow, blanket, bedsheets, and a bath towel. Please complete the Pre-Arrival form once you have booked your flights but no later than 30 days before your arrival so that we can make arrangements for your airport pick up and check-in to your room.

You will also be required to schedule an individual orientation session upon your arrival with Alex Piedras, International Student Advisor. This session will help you get acclimated to the campus as well as introduce you to Grand View and the surrounding community resources. We will also review international student policies and SEVP guidelines so that you remain compliant for continued international study.

PREPARATION PRIOR TO ENTRY TO THE UNITED STATES

Careful planning and preparation by students can ensure that procedural delays are minimal. If you are a non-immigrant student, here are some things that you should do:

  • Before leaving your country, confirm that your passport and non-immigrant visa are valid for entry into the United States. The passport should be valid for at least six (6) months beyond the date of your expected stay.
  • Check to see that your visa accurately reflects your correct visa classification.
  • If the visa states the name of the institution you will attend, also verify that this information is accurate. If your review indicates any discrepancies or potential problems, visit the U.S. Embassy or Consulate to obtain a new visa.
  • Students entering the United States for the first time under their F-1 non-immigrant visa classification may only be admitted up to 30-days prior to the program start date.
  • When you travel, you should carry the items listed below with you. Do NOT check them in your baggage! If your baggage is lost or delayed, you will not be able to show the documents to the Customs and Border Protection Officer, and as a result, may not be able to enter the United States.
  • Once you have made your travel arrangements, complete and submit the Pre-Arrival Form as soon as possible but no later than 30 days prior to your arrival.
  • All international students must provide proof of health insurance coverage within the United States each year they are enrolled at Grand View and must submit a copy of their health insurance card showing coverage for the entire academic year from August until April. A copy of the insurance card, as well as a health history form and immunization records must be uploaded in to the secure Medicat system. Please review requirements and instructions for uploading on the Student Health Center webpage. 

Arrival

Documents you should carry with you:

  • Passport with F-1 non-immigrant visa
  • SEVIS Form I-20
  • Internet receipt verifying SEVIS Fee payment
  • Evidence of financial resources
  • Certificate of Admission or Acceptance Letter

Additionally, it is recommended that you also carry the following document:

  • Name and contact information for Designated School Official (DSO) at your intended school

Upon arrival at the port-of entry, proceed to the terminal area for arriving passengers for inspection. As you approach the inspection station, ensure that you have: your passport and SEVIS Form I-20 available for presentation to the CBP Officer. Student will be provided with a CBP admission stamp (I-94) on their travel document (passport). If a traveler needs a copy of their I-94 (record of admission) for verification of immigration status, it can be obtained from http://www.cbp.gov/travel/international-visitors/i-94-instructions.

Like all entering visitors, you will be asked to state the reason you wish to enter the United States. You will also be asked to provide information about your final destination. It is important that you tell the CBP Officer that you will be a student. Be prepared to include the name and address of the school or exchange visitor program where you will enroll. Once your inspection is complete, the inspecting officer will:

  • Issue a CBP Admission Stamp (I-94) on the passport.
  • Return the SEVIS Form and passport to student.