Check-in is a mandatory process for all J-1 exchange visitors, per the U.S. Department of State.

It is separate from any other UF new student/graduate orientation.

New Students

New J-1 students are required to complete the entire check-in process within 30 days of the start date printed on their Form DS-2019. An email with detailed instructions for completing the check-in process is sent directly to the student’s email address.

Students should be prepared to show the Form DS-2019, visa, and passport for themselves and any J-2 dependents. Their SEVIS record will be validated after the drop/add period for the current semester.

Transfer Students

J-1 students transferring in from another U.S. institution must complete the entire check-in process within 15 days of the start date printed on their Form DS-2019. An email with detailed instructions for completing the check-in process is sent directly to the student’s email address.

Students should be prepared to show the UF-issued and previous Form DS-2019s, visa, and passport for themselves and any J-2 dependents. Their SEVIS record will be validated after the drop/add period for the current semester.

Non-UF-sponsored Students

J-1 students with a non-UF sponsor (e.g., AMIDEAST, IIE, FORD, OAS, USAID, or VED) must complete their check-in with Claire Anumba - canumba@ufic.ufl.edu.

An email with detailed instructions for completing the check-in process is sent directly to the student’s email address. For additional information or questions, please email canumba@ufic.ufl.edu.

Holds

Each semester, UF students must review and clear any holds in ONE.UF before they can register for courses.

Below are some of the most common holds international students will encounter:

  • No Drop Activity – Add Allowed: All international students will always see this hold.
    • Its name will change slightly to reflect the current semester. It is there to prevent students from dropping courses after drop/add and accidentally violating their visa status.
  • Administrative – Mandatory Health Insurance: This hold will appear every semester.
    • It is separate from the J-1 visa requirement to submit proof of health insurance to the UFIC.
  • Emergency Contact Information: This hold will appear every semester.
    • Non-U.S. phone numbers and addresses are allowed.
  • Immunizations: This hold will appear if there are any immunizations missing from your record.
  • Local Address Information: This hold will appear every semester.
    • It is separate from the J-1 visa requirement to notify your EVS advisor within 10 days of any change of your U.S. address or contact information.
  • Registration Preparation: This hold will appear every semester.

Social Security Numbers

Students with an assistantship, fellowship, or other form of employment must obtain a Social Security Number (SSN) before they can be officially hired or paid.

The SSN application cannot be processed until after check-in. Detailed information is provided during check-in.