Welcome!
Orientation is crucial for you to be informed and confident as you navigate a new academic system, cultural environment, and daily life at JMU. During orientation, you will be introduced to important information and resources, as well as begin to build your network that will support you through your time at JMU.
International student orientation sessions will be held in the Center for Global Engagement in Holland Yates Hall on the second floor.
- Adjust physically by recovering from travel, settling into housing, and obtaining necessary supplies.
- Adjust socially by building connections, finding community, and becoming familiar with a new cultural environment.
- Adjust academically by finalizing course registration, obtaining required materials, and preparing for coursework.
- Complete onboarding requirements, including employment paperwork, Social Security Number (SSN) application processes (if applicable), and Graduate Assistantship (GA) requirements.
- Attend orientation sessions with ISSS, TGS, and your academic program, which provide essential information and resources to support your transition to JMU.
Orientation Schedule
All orientation events and sessions will be held at the lounge in the Center for Global Engagement (second floor of Holland Yates Hall) unless otherwise noted.
Day 1 | Monday, January 11, 2027
9:30 a.m. – Welcome Session & Breakfast
10:15 a.m. – Campus Tour & Useful Information Session
12:15 p.m. – Lunch
1:30 p.m. – Shopping & Opening a Bank Account (off-campus trip)
Day 2 | Tuesday, January 12, 2027
9:45 a.m. – Student Experiences & Campus Resources
11:00 a.m. – Check-In & Required Paperwork Session
12:15 p.m. – Lunch
1:00 p.m. – ISSS & Immigration Session
2:00 p.m. – Health Insurance Session
Day 3 | Thursday, January 14, 2027
9:00 a.m. – Social Security Number (SSN)
1:30 p.m. – Complete Form I-9, Section 2 Verification
