Information for International Students
Check out steps, links, and resources for international students.
Immigration Documents
Rackham Admissions is the U-M office that processes immigration documents (I-20 or DS-2019).
Track the processing of your immigration documents
To review immigration information and track the progress of immigration documents select “View I-20 or DS-2019 Status” link in Wolverine Access.
Arrival
- Mandatory Immigration Check-in is a required appointment with the International Center to maintain visa status.
- You will receive specific personal information from Rackham Graduate School about when to arrive. The Rackham I-20 start date for Fall 2020 term is: August 24, 2020.
- View your reporting date on the “View Documents Page” link in Wolverine Access after your immigration document is issued.
- Make travel arrangements after you have been informed of the reporting date on your immigration document (I-20 or DS-2019).
Resources
- International Students’ Guide to Campus and Community
- UM’s International Center’s Information for Incoming International Students
FAQs
- Q. Where do I find the latest updates about the U.S. government travel restrictions and updates on COVID-19 for international students?
A. Authoritative, up-to-date information and resources about U.S. government travel restrictions, and updates on COVID-19 for students on F-1 and J-1 visas, is available through the U-M International Center. Also, check out International Center: COVID-19 Update: FAQs for Newly Admitted Students
- Q. As an international student, do I need a visa if I am going to take online classes for the Fall term?
A. No, you do not need a visa if you won’t be traveling to the US for the Fall term. You will need a visa when you enter the US.
- Q. I am an international student taking Fall classes online. How do I obtain an I-20 for the Winter 2021 term?
A. Winter 2021 immigration document processing will begin in July 2020. You may also wish to check the website of your nearest U.S. embassy or consulate regarding visa processing: Travel.state.gov U.S. Visas
- Q. I am a master’s student waiting for a visa appointment. If I do not get my visa in time to arrive for the start of Fall classes, could I arrive mid-semester after I get my visa?
A. Aero Master’s students cannot arrive mid-term. Instead, international students may start their program in their home country taking online classes in the Fall term. Then Rackham will issue them a new I-20 to apply for a visa, to arrive on campus by the first day of winter term classes, January 18, 2021.
Questions
- Rackham Graduate School Admissions— Email: rackadmin@umich.edu | Phone: (734) 764-8129
- International Center—Phone:(734)764-9310 | Email: icenter@umich.edu | website: internationalcenter.umich.edu
Denise Phelps
Graduate Student Services Coordinator
Aerospace Engineering
dphelps@umich.edu
(734) 615-4406
2049 FXB