The Office of International Education (OIE) is excited to invite you to our Welcome Series, designed to help new international students like you get started at Georgia Tech. Our orientation program features both virtual and in-person events covering crucial topics such as pre-arrival preparations, navigating life and academics at Georgia Tech, and maintaining your F-1/J-1 visa status. This series is a fantastic opportunity to meet fellow new students, engage with campus representatives, and ask questions to our international advisors. For more details on the Welcome Series, visit isss.oie.gatech.edu/welcome-series. 

To assist with your arrival preparations, this email includes essential information on check-in requirements, arrival resources, and details about our first webinar. 

After receiving your F-1 or J-1 student visa, you are eligible to enter the United States no more than 30 days before the Program Start Date listed on your I-20/DS-2019. 

All F-1 and J-1 visa holders must complete the OIE Check-In e-forms as required by U.S. federal regulations. These e-forms will be available online starting December 8, 2025, for the Spring 2026 semester. You can complete the OIE Check-In through iStart by navigating to istart.gatech.edu and selecting F/J Student Arrival and Check-In > Spring 2026 OIE Check-In. 

Our International Student Orientation, known as Welcome Series, includes engaging sessions on various topics crucial for your success. Attendance is highly encouraged for all new, readmitted, transfer, and change-of-status students. Find the Orientation Schedule for details on dates, times, and access information. 

As an F-1 or J-1 visa holder, U.S. law requires you to complete an international student check-in process with your Designated School Official (DSO) or Alternate Responsible Officer (ARO). At Georgia Tech, this process is known as OIE Check-In, and your DSO/ARO will be an OIE International Student and Scholar Advisor. 

OIE Check-In is completed entirely online through the iStart portal at istart.gatech.edu. You do not need to physically visit OIE to complete this process. 

Begin the OIE Check-In process before your arrival in the U.S. by completing the Arrival Confirmation e-form in iStart, available under the OIE Check-In e-form group within the F/J Student Arrival and Check-In menu. If you are transferring from another U.S. institution, please indicate your transfer status and SEVIS release date in the Arrival Confirmation e-form. 

After arriving in the U.S., complete the remaining e-forms and upload your immigration documents into iStart. For more information, visit OIE’s Check-in Page. 

We’re excited to welcome you to Georgia Tech in January! For any further questions, please email us at info@oie.gatech.edu or attend one of our Virtual Drop-in Advising Sessions.

Best Regards, 

Office of International Education 

Georgia Institute of Technology 
631 Cherry St. Savant Suite 211 
Atlanta, GA 30332-0284 
oie.gatech.edu