Checklist for New Students

The Graduate School recommends that new students complete these tasks in the following sequence.

May be completed prior to arrival or upon arrival:

1. Locate and secure permanent housing.
2. Contact your academic department and ask for the name of your graduate advisor. Discuss the classes you will be taking in your first semester with your advisor.
3. Activate your PID.
4. Purchase health insurance (mandatory for international students in F or J visa status, optional for domestic students).
5. Register for classes on Hokie SPA.
6. After you register for classes, you will be billed for tuition and fees. Check Hokie Spa for your balance and make sure to pay by the date indicated.

Must be completed upon arrival:

1. Get your student ID card in the Hokie Passport Office, 100 Student Services Building (540/231-5121).
2. Submit your Health History Form to the Schiffert Health Services by the required deadline (listed on the form). The form should be downloaded from the Schiffert Heath Center website. International students should make an appointment through the Cranwell International Center before submitting the form.
3. Participate in Graduate Student Orientation (optional, but encouraged).

International students also must:

1. Check in with the International Graduate Student Services (IGSS) office in the Graduate School at the Graduate Life Center. (Rooms 111 and 112). Bring your passport, I-94 card and I-20 or DS-2019 form.
2. Check in with the Cranwell International Center.
3. Participate in the mandatory Orientation program. Details will be posted on the Cranwell International Center website.

Continue to Advice from Graduate Students