(1) All F-1 and J-1 student visa holders are required by the U.S. government to check in with their immigration specialist (Designated School Official/DSO or Alternate Responsible Officer/ARO). The Georgia Tech check-in process is called OIE Check-In, and is done completely online via the iStart portal at istart.gatech.edu.    

(2) The OIE Check-In e-forms are now live! There are three e-forms required to complete the Check-In process. They can all be found under the OIE Check-In e-form group in F/J Student Arrival and Check-In menu. They must be submitted per the instructions outlined below:   

(3) A registration hold will be placed on your account if your OIE Check-In e-forms are not submitted by the end of Phase II registration.  

(4) For more information on OIE Check-In, visit OIE’s Check-In page at https://isss.oie.gatech.edu/isss-check-in.   

The Department of Homeland Security published a final rule to replace Duration of Status on July 17, 2026 for F and J visa holders. The new rule will not immediately go into effect; instead, the new rule and policies will go into effect 60 days from the published date, on September 15, 2026. The Office of International Education has published initial guidance and an FAQ on their webpage: https://isss.oie.gatech.edu/duration-status. As further guidance is developed, OIE will publish the most up-to-date information here. 

In additional to the OIE Duration of Status webpage, please review the following:

We realize these changes may create uncertainty. We want to remind you that Georgia Tech has several resources and campus partners that can assist you during this time. For a comprehensive list and summary of these resources, please visit our Fill Your Cup student resource webpage: https://isss.oie.gatech.edu/isss/fillyourcup.  Exchange visit employees and affiliates may visit: https://isss.oie.gatech.edu/exchange-visitors-wellness-resources.

Join us for a fun way to discover the ins and outs of campus! Solve clues, meet others, and uncover hidden gems as you navigate your way around campus. It's the perfect opportunity to familiarize yourself with campus and make lasting friendships!

August 18

at 1:15 pm

on Tech Green

Celebrate the semester in style! Join us for an exciting evening of music, games, food, and socializing with fellow Yellow Jackets. It’s a great way to unwind, meet new friends and ISSS staff, and kick off your Georgia Tech journey with fun and community. Don’t miss the vibes and good times!

August 20

at 4:00 pm

on Tech Green

All F-1 and J-1 students are required to have health insurance for the duration of their time at Georgia Tech. All international students will be enrolled in the United Healthcare Student Resources (UHCSR) student health insurance plan mandated by the University System of Georgia. For more information, see the Stamps Heath Center insurance website. Charges for the student health insurance will be automatically added to your bursar account. Full-time students who have an existing health insurance coverage that meets/exceeds Georgia Tech insurance requirements can request a waiver for GT student insurance. 

We’re excited to welcome you to Georgia Tech! 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