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Graduate Orientation

Day of Arrival and Orientation Information

Fall 2025 International Student Graduate Orientation In-Person Arrival and Orientation Schedule

Wednesday, August 20, 2025: International Graduate Student Orientation:

  • 8-9 a.m.: Coffee and mingling, Graduate Life Center, Multipurpose Room
  • 9 a.m.-12 p.m.: Orientation program, Graduate Life Center, Multipurpose Room

Campus Tours:

  • 1-2 p.m: We will offer campus tours, starting outside the Graduate Life Center Auditorium.

Global Dance Party:

  • All students are welcome to enjoy a dance party that celebrates music and dancing from around the world!
  • Wednesday, August 20, 8-11 p.m. in Squires Ballroom.

Details

Pre-Arrival Orientation:

  • Please make sure to check the Pre-Arrival Canvas Course for all your pre-arrival questions.
  • Also, please attend our Pre-Arrival Webinar Series. All webinars will be recorded and loaded into the Canvas Course for your reference.

Grad School orientation and welcome events:

  • Grad School will offer orientation to all new graduate students, please check their website to see updated information.

Departmental orientation:

  • Each academic department will hold orientation, dates and times vary. Please check with your department to confirm.
  • If there is a time conflict between the international student orientation, please prioritize your departmental orientation.

Pre-Arrival Webinar Series

If you missed one of these webinars, the recordings live on the Pre-Arrival Canvas Course.

Securing Your Visa Status

Learn about the process for obtaining your F-1 or J-1 visa as well as some basic immigration information to make your transition to VT as smooth as possible.

Transportation

Learn the transportation options for getting to campus from your arrival flight as well as Blacksburg’s transit system so that you can pick routes that work for you.

Off-Campus Housing

Learn from VT’s Office of Off-Campus Housing about all the ways you find an apartment, things to consider when renting, and different lease options.

On-Campus Housing for Undergraduate Students

Learn about the advantages of learning living centers and how you can successfully live with roommates in VT on-campus housing.

Student Medical Insurance and Immunizations

Learn the requirements for medical insurance while being a VT student. Schiffert Health Center will go over all of you required immunizations and important, upcoming deadlines.

F-2 and Family Preparation

Coming to the U.S. with dependents? Learn about community resources, school enrollment for kids, and public health basics.

Financial Wellness

Learn the basics of American banking and best practices for managing your money while being a VT student.

It’s Your Career

Learn the resources and processes that will help you start your career journey at VT. Join the Career and professional Development Office the Co-Op Program from The Graduate School to learn more about internships, job opportunities, resume building, and more!

Campus Life

Learn about the many possibilities to get involved with campus- student organizations, upcoming events, and recreational sports!

Student Panel Discussion and Q&A

Connect with current international students about their experiences finding a home at VT!