Pre-Arrival Information for Scholars
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Pre-Arrival Information for Scholars
Before arriving at the University of Delaware, you must complete a few important tasks, described below. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact the Center for Global Programs & Services (CGPS) by email at oiss@udel.edu.
Use your passport and the enclosed SEVIS DS-2019 form (for J-1 visa) and schedule your visa appointment. Take all the previously mentioned documents along with your original admission letter, SEVIS fee receipt, and financial documentation (ex: Stipend letter from the department, financial support letter, sponsorship letter, current bank statement) to the U.S. embassy or consulate in your country to apply for your visa. The U.S. Embassy website provides links to all U.S. embassies and consulates worldwide.
Once approved, the visa is stamped in your passport. Canadian citizens are exempt from having to obtain a visa but must use their DS-2019 to enter the U.S. and must obtain a Form I-94 clearly indicating J-1 status. You are permitted to enter the U.S. for personal reasons up to 30 days prior to the start date noted on your DS-2019. You are required to report to the program sponsor (University of Delaware) designated on your visa stamp and DS-2019 form.
Please note: You should have U.S. currency available for travel expenses and any emergency that might occur between arrival at the port of entry and arrival in Newark, Delaware.
Find information about J-1 and J-2 health insurance on the CGPS Healthcare & Insurance webpage.
For the latest guidance about traveling to the U.S., including transportation and quarantine requirements upon your arrival, visit the CGPS COVID-19 Updates webpage.
For information about travel options to the U.S. and in the area, visit the CGPS Transportation webpage.
If you are delayed
If your trip to the University of Delaware is delayed more than one week and you are unable to enter the U.S. by the start date shown on your DS-2019 form, USCIS requires that you notify CGPS.
Email: oiss@udel.edu
Phone: (302) 831-2115
We will electronically amend your start date in the SEVIS system and send you a new DS-2019 form if necessary.
If you decide not to attend
If you decide not to join the University of Delaware, please notify CGPS and your Host Department as soon as possible so that we may close out your file.
CGPS has developed the following webpages to help you prepare for your life at UD:
Get current travel guidance and learn about what to bring and what to expect at the port of entry to the U.S.
Learn about housing, health insurance, social security numbers, driver's licenses and other practical information to prepare for your new life.
ISSS Disclaimer: The information contained on this web site is provided as a service to international students, faculty, staff, employees, and administrators at the University of Delaware, and does not constitute legal advice on any immigration, tax, or other matter. As legal advice must be tailored to the specific circumstances of each case, and laws are constantly changing, nothing provided herein should be used as a substitute for the advice of official counsel. For assistance on your immigration status, we encourage you to contact an ISS advisor for specific guidance at oiss@udel.edu.