| | What are my next steps? | |
Proof of Financial Resources | international@uwf.edu
| Request a DS-2019 The first step is to submit a copy of your passport and proof of financial support for your study program. When this is complete, you will receive an email with your steps and a scanned copy of your DS-2109. Print all pages of the document, and sign/date in ink. You need a signed, printed copy for your visa appointment and for travel.
| We recommend that you complete this step as soon as possible so that you can schedule a visa appointment. If your plans change, please email international@uwf.edu with details. |
Apply for your J-1 VISA |
international@uwf.edu | Schedule a Visa Appointment There are several steps to apply for a J-1 visa. You need your DS-2019 to make the appointment. Please consult the instructions on the embassy or consulate website for information for that location. If the earliest visa appointment is too late for you to arrive on time: 1 Schedule the first available appointment 2. Follow the instructions to schedule an emergency visa appointment You can find more information on the website of your embassy or consulate | Four Steps to Help You Apply for a Visa Five Ways to Prepare for your Visa Interview 10 Points to Remember When Applying for a Student Visa This resource also has videos available through some US Embassy websites.
You are able to enter the US up to 30 days before your program start date of August 17, 2023. |
J-1 Check-in | Check In Steps for J-1 Students | All exchange students must complete check in with UWF International Affairs. Most of the check in steps can be done before you arrive in Pensacola. | After you complete check in, you will get an email to confirm that your check in is complete. If your home university needs forms completed to confirm your courses, arrival or completion of classes, please email them to international@uwf.edu or drop them off at the International Center.
US Phone NumberJ-1 students must have a US phone number to maintain their status.
Students must have a US phone number for university mobile notifications used for emergencies.
One option is studentSIMS
You can also look into other affordable options after you arrive.
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Health Insurance | international@uwf.edu Maintaining Required Insurance as an F-1 or J-1 Student You can enroll in a Pre-approved insurance plan by the UWF. OR You can Use your Own Insurance, as long as you complete a waiver form by the deadline. | As an exchange student to UWF, you are required to have health insurance that meets the State of Florida requirements - these requirements are higher than the basic J1 visa insurance requirements.
PLEASE NOTE: Travel insurance policies or policies that state they meet minimum J1 visa holder requirements for insurance in the US DO NOT MEET State of Florida requirements for international student insurance. More information on the requirement will be emailed to students in May 2023. The deadline to opt out of the UWF insurance and use your own insurance will be August 15. - Please go here to review State of Florida J1 insurance requirements.
- UWF will send detailed information about options to meet insurance requirements in a separate email.
| After the posted waiver deadlines: - alternative insurance WILL NOT be accepted. Students will need to enroll in the IFS plan for UWF students.
Resources to understand US Healthcare and Insurance UWF Student Health Services Frequently Asked Questions Local Urgent Care and Emergency Room Facilities - If you are experiencing an emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room (ER).
- For non-emergency care, visit Student Health Services, an urgent care or doctor's office.
Overview of the US Healthcare System for International Students
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Arrive in Pensacola | international@uwf.edu | If you arrive by plane, you can take a taxi, Uber or Lyft to your room. UWF International Affairs is not able to provide airport pick up.
If you plan on using bank cards and accounts from abroad, make sure they will work in the U.S. before travel. You will only need cash for food, taxi services, and emergencies. Do not travel with large amounts of cash. After you have your new address, you may open a checking account at a local bank.
| You are able to enter the US up to 30 days before your program start date of August 17, 2023. UWF Campus Map If you are confirmed to live on campus, enter the building number or the name of your residence hall. Google Maps If you are living off campus, be sure to have the correct street address. |
