Who do I contact?

What are my next steps?

Additional Information

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.

Learning Agreements and Other Forms

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 Number

J-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.

Health Insurance

international@uwf.edu 

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.

There are 2 options for Fall 2023 and Spring 2024.

Option 1

The UWF Policy with LewerMark Student Insurance.

Payment Deadline:  August 28

UWF F-1 students are automatically enrolled. The fee for this policy is added to your UWF student account.

You must pay this fee in full by August 28.

Failure to comply with the payment deadline will result in immediate removal from all class enrollment.

Click here for 2023-2024 Fees

Payment options:

• In person at the UWF Cashiers Office - cash or check only
• In CashNet - This is a two step process.

1. Make payment in CashNet
2. Email stuacct@uwf.edu to complete insurance payment.

Option 2

Use your Own Insurance Plan

Deadline:  August 15

Submit a waiver request form by August 15, 5 pm Central Time

To submit the waiver request form: Click Here

If your waiver request form is not approved, you must pay for the UWF policy. 

Please note that ISI, ISO and many other less expensive plans will not be approved.

Check carefully before purchasing!

Click here for more information on using your own insurance 

Email waivers@lewer.com if you have additional questions about submitting a waiver request form.

After the posted waiver deadlines:

• alternative insurance WILL NOT be accepted.

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

Arrive in Pensacola

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.