We are looking forward to welcoming you to campus! Our office is here to help you adjust to life at Puget Sound by connecting you with our internationally-minded community and campus resources that will help you thrive.

International Orientation: Fall 2024

International Orientation for the 2024-25 academic year will take place on Friday, August 23. International Orientation is compulsory for all undergraduate students with F-1 or J-1 visas. This orientation is also designed for TCIs, or third culture individuals, who are U.S. citizens who have spent a substantial time living abroad. International Orientation will cover topics like transitioning to life in the U.S., the American college classroom, how to access health care, practical resources on and around campus, and where to find the best coffee!

For transfer and graduate students, a one-on-one or small session orientation and registration will take place during the first week of classes. It is not required to attend International Orientation.

Notice! Invitations for the 2024 International Student Orientation & Move-in have been sent out. If you are an incoming international student who has not received an email from us, please reach out to our office as soon as possible.

International Student Move-in Day

New international students participating in International Orientation are invited to move into their campus dorm one day early, on Thursday, August 22, 2024. You must communicate your arrival plans to OIP in advance to have an early move-in confirmed.

All new international students who move in early are expected to arrive by Thursday, August 22 to ensure they are able to attend the International Orientation on Friday, August 23.

Airport pick-ups for solo international arrivals

Need a ride? If you will be arriving at the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) on your own we would be happy to arrange your transportation from the airport to campus on Thursday, August 22.

If you will be arriving with your family we recommend that you take a shuttle, rideshare, or have your family rent a car to bring you to campus. See more information and a partial list of local hotel and transportation options.

Puget Sound Orientation “Passages”

  • Passages is our university’s weeklong orientation week! During Passages, there are many orientations going on, including degree program orientations, graduate student orientation, and transfer student orientation. Our International Orientation is the first orientation to take place, leaving plenty of time to participate in other Passages events!
  • International Orientation will include time for Passages check-in and will finish before Commencement (4 p.m.).
  • International students who matriculate in the Spring semester will receive a one-on-one or small group orientation with our office during the first week of classes.
  • Learn more information about the Passages Schedule.