DESIGNED FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
We help international students like you make the most of your time at UGA. Whether you want to learn more about student organizations, need help transitioning to the United States, or hope to make new friends before classes start, this program is for you.
Ready to explore your new home in Athens?
WHY SHOULD YOU ATTEND?
- We’ll help you navigate important topics such as immigration, UGA academics, safety, and more
- Learn from peers what it’s like to live in Athens, including where to shop, eat, and have fun
- Lots of different activities and events to help you make new friends before classes start
REGISTRATION COST
Registration covers meals– lunch, dinner, and snacks– orientation materials, t-shirt, and all sessions.
- $250 registration fee is billed directly to your Student Account to be paid at the beginning of the semester with tuition and fees.
- Orientation housing is available to those who register for $290. Additional nights either prior to or after orientation are also available.
BUILD COMMUNITY BEFORE CLASSES START
Moving to a new country can be daunting. Meet international students like you and start your semester off right with new community.
“Student orientation has been a fundamental part of my experience. It has provided me with essential friends and built relationships that I have benefited from. ISO showed us the ins and outs of campus, made me feel welcome and gave me a sense of belonging. ISO will lay the foundation of a great year. Highly encouraged!”
Daan Scheeres
Netherlands
“I came to Georgia alone, not knowing anyone or anything about this place. I keep saying that International Students Orientation set me up for success, and I truly believe in it. Not only was this one of the best weeks I’ve had at UGA, but I also came out with confidence to start the year, and with some of my best friends for life.”
Emily Blecher
Israel
BEFORE YOU COME
Suitcase Series
Immigration Information
This informational series created by Immigration Services and the office of International Student Life provides pre-arrival information. The Suitcase Series gives an overview of the immigration process, housing, transportation, and student life.
Immunizations
Required Documentation
In order to be a UGA student and register for classes, there are certain immunizations that all students on campus must have. If you are able to obtain these in your home country prior to arriving at UGA, please bring a copy of your medical records, in English, to confirm your immunization. You can also obtain these immunizations once you arrive in Athens at the University Health Center. The required vaccines are listed online with the University Health Center. Additionally, you can view the required forms for incoming students related to the Health Center.
UPON ARRIVAL
Getting Here
Flights and Shuttles
When you fly to the United States, the closest airport to Athens is Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport (ATL). Once you arrive in Atlanta, you have several options to consider for getting to Athens. Most Students Arrive via Groome Shuttle. It is the most cost effective and reliable method of transportation. Private Car/Uber/Lift/Taxi are options, but are more expensive and not frequently used by students and can cost over $100.
Orientation Housing
Holiday Inn Express
ISL has coordinated Orientation Housing with the Holiday Inn Express in downtown Athens. You can secure housing through registration. Additional Nights are available, and more information will be provided to you upon confirmation of registration. Check-In is August 5, Check out is August 9 for Orientation Housing. Breakfast is included in this rate.
Arrival Day
Check-in
Orientation check-in takes place August 5 from 10a-2p. If you take the Groome Shuttle, it will take you directly to the Holiday Inn Express (if you are staying in Orientation Housing) or you can choose another location in Athens to get to your final destination. If you are staying in Orientation Housing at the Holiday Inn Express, they will hold your luggage until your room is ready if you arrive prior to hotel check-in.
Shopping Trip
A shopping trip to Target to pick up any necessities is planned for that afternoon.
Banks and Cell Phones
We will have local banks at Orientation Check-in so that you may open a US Bank Account on site. We will have SIM Cards available for free at Check-in if you still need a SIM Card upon arrival.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Workshops
There will be workshops on various topics such as Academic Honesty, Faculty Panels, Mock Class, How to Register for Classes, Health Insurance and US Healthcare System, Safety in the US with UGA Police Department, Well-being and mental health, Financial Systems, Immigration, Career Center, UGA Employment and Taxes.
Squad Time
In groups, we’ll have tours of campus, discuss what it’s like living in Athens, academic tips, and what the UGA experience is like.
Campus & Community Resource Fair
Interact with campus and community resources such as Athens Transit, UGA Transportation, US Banks, Student Organizations, UGA Departments and UGA student resources.
Social Events
Interact and make new friends with other International Students through our Downtown Adventure, Game Night, Ice Cream Social, and Soccer.
A BIG THANKS TO OUR ISO &
WORLD LEADER SPONSORS
WE'RE HERE TO HELP
