About ISO

We are the University’s official contact with:

• the US Department of State,
• foreign and American consulates,
• the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS),
• the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP),
• along with other organizations and government agencies.

We issue the relevant documentation for University-sponsored visa categories, TN programs, petitions USCIS for sponsored nonimmigrant statuses, and advise on immigration matters, including:

• Issuance of I-20 and DS-2019 forms for F-1 and J-1 nonimmigrant student visa programs
• Petitions for H-1B, O-1, and TN categories
• Guidance on maintaining legal immigration status and accessing available benefits
• Mandatory SEVIS reporting and processing
• Employment authorizations and regulations
• Facilitation of US Social Security applications
• Travel advisories, including valid documentation for re-entry and Canadian visitor visas
• Spouse and dependent visa documentation
• Visa application tips and reminders
• Extension or change of immigration status
• Coordination of SEVIS immigration transfers
• Medical evacuation and repatriation insurance
• Verification letters of immigration status
• Routes to US permanent residency status

Our staff can help you adjust to life at Rochester by providing information and referrals concerning:

• Cultural adjustment issues
• Legal rights and responsibilities
• Medical, financial, and other emergencies
• Personal, relationship, and family problems
• Support services for dependents
• US attorneys (immigration, civil, etc.)
• General information on life in the US, such as healthcare, insurance, and taxes

We’re your advocates within the University and the wider community. ISO staff liaise with University departments and Rochester community representatives to advocate for and address the needs of the University’s international students and scholars. Outside of the University, we help our international populations access local services, such as Social Security, New York State drivers’ licenses, and area banks.

Our staff members also belong to professional organizations, including NAFSA (The Association of International Educators).

ISO hosts a variety of programs to welcome new students and to help you connect with the other international students within the University and the wider community. Many activities are sponsored with student and scholar groups and community organizations.

Each year, our main programs include:

• International Student Orientation Program (ISOP), featuring an introduction to ISO, overview of immigration regulations, US culture and customs, understanding the American classroom, taxes and legal issues, as well as a formal welcome to campus and the city.
• Rochester Global Connections (RGC) events that encourage students to engage with the local community and one another through cultural activities. Events include picnics, square dancing, a traditional Thanksgiving dinner, and more.
• Workshops and presentations on topics such as immigration, employment, and Social Security Number application procedures.
• English Conversation Groups meetings to practice conversing in English, are free to University community members.
• Staff development on cross-cultural communications for University departmental representatives and others working with international populations.
• Day trips to local sights such as Niagara Falls and Canadice Lake. Keep an eye on our events calendar for upcoming opportunities!

We’re proud of the diversity of our international student body, with more than 100 countries currently represented in the University’s international community. To learn more about our international student population, contact us for a copy of our most recent ISO Statistical Report (generated each fall).

For information about national and regional trends within international education, see the Institute for International Education Open Doors Report or the National Association for Foreign Student Advisors Economic Value Tool.