Orientation

Orientations help new students transition to SF State and connect with current students. Most orientations are mandatory, as they communication important information to new students about the SF State experience.   

Types of Orientation

Hosted by: Office of International Programs (OIP)

Format: In-person and virtual (Online synchronous) at Zoom

How to attend:

Detailed instructions will be emailed to new students (to their SF State students' email accounts) 2 weeks before the orientation date.

Dates: January 24 & 25, 2024

Description: This FREE orientation helps introduce new international students to life at SF State. It is a chance for F-1 and J-1 exchange students to learn about campus services, meet their OIP advisors, and ask questions about immigration and other concerns.

Reasons to attend International Student Orientation:

  • You will learn about the Office of International Programs (OIP) and campus services
  • You will meet your international student advisors and have a chance to ask questions
  • You will connect with other international & exchange students and learn about various international student organizations at SF State
  • ISO attendance is mandatory for J-1 exchange students. 

 

Hosted by: Office of International Programs

Format: Asynchronous (which means "not live"), fully online orientation on Canvas: 
https://canvas.sfsu.edu/ 

Description: This online workshop covers topics that include U.S. regulations that apply to F-1 students, navigating SF State, U.S. classroom expectations....and more!  Only F-1 students who have completed their Accepted Admissions Offer (AAO) will be able to access this workshop. Students should complete the this workshop prior to entering the United States.

Students who have AAO'd but do not see the workshop on their Canvasaccount should contact f1@sfsu.edu for assistance.

Designed by: Office of International Programs (OIP)

Format: Asynchronous (which means "not live"), fully online orientation on https://canvas.sfsu.edu/ 

Description: This mandatory online orientation provides J-1 exchange students with important information about the Exchange Visitor Program, immigration requirements, program activities, SF State academics, and advice about housing, employment, and other topics. Students must complete the Pre-Arrival Orientation prior to entering the United States.

Hosted by: New Student Program (NSP)

Format: Synchronous (which means "live") at Zoom

Description: The New Student Orientation is an academic advising orientation for incoming undergraduate students who plan to obtain their Bachelor's degree at SF State.

Hosted by: Division of Graduate Studies

Format: Online and in-person (to be determined)

Description: Visit Division of Graduate Studies website for the latest information.

Hosted by: Academic colleges or departments

Format: To be determined by academic departments

Descriptions: Some academic colleges and departments host their own orientation for new students.  Be sure to check your SF State email account or your academic departments' website for their specific new students' information. 

Past Orientation

Last updated: September 2023

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