View the
Arrival Guide
to find more information about housing, banking and living in College Park.
Orientation for J-1 researchers, short-term scholars, professors, interns and trainees is held every Wednesday morning from 10:00am - 12:00pm*. Attendance at orientation is required as soon as possible after your arrival at the university.
The session will cover the immigration regulations associated with your J-1 status, including time limits, health insurance, keeping your SEVIS information current, and travel outside the United States. We will explain restrictions on your employment, and how to apply for a Social Security number.
The orientation will also introduce you to the UMCP campus and to the wider Washington metropolitan area. We'll talk about how to use public transit and suggest local places of interest to visit during your time here.
We look forward to meeting you at orientation.
*Orientation is held every Wednesday of the year, except during Winter and Spring breaks, and during international student orientation in August and January.