What We Do
The Office of International Education's (OIE) International Student Services team supports international students from the time they first show interest in UVM through some of their student-based work authorizations after graduation. We work with students who hold various immigration statuses, as well as US citizens who grew up abroad who wish to be part of the UVM international community. Our work includes immigration advising, student support as they get to know Burlington and UVM, orientation, social and educational programs, and being a resource for students when they don’t know where to find the information elsewhere on campus.
UVM is home to international students from over 60 countries. Within our population we have multiple student types. These include degree-seeking undergraduate and graduate students, exchange students who study abroad at UVM through one of our exchange partnerships, and visiting graduate students who undertake short-term research with individual faculty.
General International Student Support
Information for New International Students
New international students receive frequent communications from the Office of International Education, as well as campus partners. The following links offer key information to prepare for arrival and for the first weeks on campus. New students should additional review the "Basic Life in the US Resources" for other important information supporting their time in the US.
Basic Life in the US Resources
Beyond the core immigration support that our office provides, our team is available to support students through the many different needs they might have in the US - whether logistical, cultural, academic, or otherwise. All of OIE's supports are in addition to the general campus community support available to all students.
We encourage students to meet with our staff as a starting point for needs you might have. While we are not always have the answers, we can help you get on the path you might need.
International Student Immigration
Maintaining Status
To maintain F-1/J-1 status, all students must:
- Enroll full-time (with a few exceptions)
- Update the OIE with address changes, chances of major, level of study, length of study, etc.
- Follow rules for employment/training (see below)
- J-1 Students must also maintain J-1 Compliant Health Insurance
Students are informed about the nuances of their immigration requirements during International Student Orientation and reminded via regular communications from the Office of International Education. By signing a form I-20 or DS-2019, students are agreeing that they understand these rules.
Travel
Travel to and from the US is a common aspect of student experiences while studying at UVM. The following links offer key guidance
Employment and Practical Training
Any work or practical training (paid or unpaid) is highly regulated for F-1 and J-1 students, and any work completed while physically in the US must follow federal regulations. The following types of standard work authorization are available for J-1 students in the US.
Dependent Immigration Regulations
F-1 and J-1 students often have dependents with them in the US. These dependents - spouses and children - are subject to a range of federal regulations that govern their stay in the US.