New Students

Welcome to the University of Washington! CIRCLE is here to help new international students prepare for UW, connect with community, and find resources for life in Seattle.

Use this page as your starting point. For detailed steps, visit the Before You Arrive, After You Arrive, Transition to UW, and CIRCLE Support pages below.

Start Here

Before You Arrive

Review important steps before coming to the U.S., including immigration, A&O, immunization, UW email, Husky Card photo, etc.

Before Arrival Checklist

After You Arrive

Complete post-arrival steps such as ISS immigration check-in, A&O Part 3 or orientation, Husky Card pickup, and campus transition tasks.

After Arrival Checklist

Explore Key CIRCLE Welcome Resources

Transition to UW

Find practical guides for packing, entering the U.S., move-in, immunization, transcripts, placement tests, banking, housing, transportation, shopping, and more.

Explore Transition to UW

CIRCLE Support

Learn about CIRCLE programs for students that help students connect before arrival, attend welcome programs, and build community at UW.

Explore CIRCLE Support

CIRCLE Programs for New Students

CIRCLE offers programs for both undergraduate and graduate international students. These programs help students connect with peers, learn about campus resources, and prepare for life at UW.

If you are an exchange student, you are welcome to participate in these programs too!

Undergraduate students can join Regional Connection Groups, attend Virtual International Husky Welcome sessions, and participate in International Welcome Programs after arriving.

Regional Connection Groups

Virtual International Husky Welcome

International Welcome Programs

Graduate students can find graduate-specific transition resources, pre-arrival workshops, newsletters, and welcome programs designed for international graduate student needs.

Graduate International Students

Summer Pre-Arrival Essentials

International Welcome Programs

CIRCLE VISION

CIRCLE serves as a resource hub for international student engagement, support,and advocacy. For new international students, CIRCLE helps streamline important information, create opportunities for connection before arrival, support students during welcome programs, and continue offering resources after the first days on campus.

Communication

CIRCLE helps organize key information so students know what to do and where to find support.

Engagement

Students can connect with peers, staff, and campus partners through virtual and in-person programs.

Arrival

Welcome programs help students build community and adjust to life at UW and in Seattle.

Continued Support

CIRCLE supports students through advising, programs, advocacy, and resources.

Questions about CIRCLE programs can be directed to uwcircle@uw.edu.