Pre-Arrival Checklist

UW NetID and MyUW Account

Your UW NetID and password are tools for accessing your MyUW account. As an exchange student, your NetID will also be your UW email username and will remain with you throughout your program. You will only be able to create your UW NetID after official acceptance.  

You must have your MyUW set up to:

• access your academic schedule and your grades
• access your UW email
• access your tuition and fees statement
• update your mailing address
• apply for housing
• register for classes

International Student Services (ISS) Online Information Session
All new international students are required to complete the ISS Online Information Session. You must complete the ISS Online Information Session before you can register for classes. If you have U.S. citizenship, you are exempt from this requirement.

**Please note that it typically takes two business days for the ISS registration hold to be removed.

MyISSS

MyISSS (pronounced “my I-triple-S“) is your resource for immigration-related request forms and information. This resource allows students to submit requests to the ISS office, view information related to their J status, and receive announcements from the ISS office.

Proof of Funding

When you request your DS-2019 through MyISSS, you’ll need to submit proof of non-tuition related expenses.  Please see the Proof of Finances page for details. 

Immunization Requirements
Before you can register for UW courses, you must submit proof of immunizations. Review the Immunization Requirement information on the Hall Health website and follow the directions to submit the required documents. If you have questions or concerns, please contact the Hall Health Center directly.

International Student Orientation and Travel Arrangements 

An orientation will be held for all new exchange students at the beginning of each quarter. The orientation is designed to help you learn about the University community, U.S. customs and lifestyles, and the Seattle area. It is also a great way to explore our city and meet other UW students. Exchange Students are expected to attend the orientation and you should plan to arrive in Seattle according to the recommendations for your term of entry.

Immigration Information
You are responsible for understanding and complying with all terms of your J-1 visa status while in the U.S. The ISS office will help you navigate immigration regulations and procedures so please review their new student information carefully.

Health Insurance
Federal and state laws require that international students maintain adequate health insurance while attending the UW. All international students in J-1 status are required to purchase the UW International Student Health Insurance Plan (iSHIP) and as a result you must agree to purchase this insurance before you will be allowed to register for courses. However, this requirement may be waived for exchange students as long as you meet certain eligibility criteria and have comparable insurance that meets the J-1 requirements. To see if you are eligible please review the insurance waiver process. If you will be at UW for more than one quarter, select “ANNUAL” insurance when applying for the waiver. Should you be granted a waiver, the charges for the UW Student Health Insurance will be removed from your MyUW account. For health insurance waiver inquiries, please email inswaive@uw.edu.

Register for Classes
After successfully completing the ISS Online Information Session, immunization form approval, and securing insurance you will be able to begin registration during Period II for your quarter of entry. If you will attend UW for more than one quarter you will be able to enroll for subsequent quarters during Period I.