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.
- April 16, 2025. 8-9 a.m. EST.
- virginiatech.zoom.us/j/89375969846
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.
- May 6, 2025. 8-9 a.m. EST.
- virginiatech.zoom.us/j/89546105810
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.
- May 14, 2025. 8-9 a.m. EST.
- virginiatech.zoom.us/j/89920142978
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.
- May 15, 2025. 8-9 a.m. EST.
- virginiatech.zoom.us/j/84856865069
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.
- May 20, 2025. 8-9 a.m. EST.
- virginiatech.zoom.us/j/81887934714
F-2 and Family Preparation
Coming to the U.S. with dependents? Learn about community resources, school enrollment for kids, and public health basics.
- May 22, 2025. 8-9 a.m.EST.
- virginiatech.zoom.us/j/83751303755
Financial Wellness
Learn the basics of American banking and best practices for managing your money while being a VT student.
- July 11, 2025. 8-9 a.m. EST.
- virginiatech.zoom.us/j/83020772229
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!
- July 23, 2025. 8-9 a.m. EST.
- virginiatech.zoom.us/j/86733063628
Campus Life
Learn about the many possibilities to get involved with campus- student organizations, upcoming events, and recreational sports!
- July 31, 2025. 8-9 a.m. EST.
- virginiatech.zoom.us/j/88928111491
Student Panel Discussion and Q&A
Connect with current international students about their experiences finding a home at VT!
- August 7, 2025. 8-9 a.m. EST.
- virginiatech.zoom.us/j/81620876887