Welcome to the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign!
Our New International Student Orientation will introduce you to life at Illinois, provide you with essential information, and help you make the most of the resources available on campus. Orientation consists of two parts:
- Reviewing information and watching the pre-recorded videos from campus units so that you are prepared to ask your questions during the virtual session.
- Attending the virtual orientation session on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, from 10:00am-12:30pm CST.
Please note: Orientation and International Student Check-In are two separate processes.
Orientation Videos
All new students are expected to watch the orientation videos provided by our campus partners ahead of time. Come prepared to ask questions during the live Zoom session!
Virtual Orientation Session Schedule
During the orientation, speakers from across campus shared information and answer questions about important topics to help students succeed at the university.
- 10:00-10:05 Welcome
- 10:05-10:25 International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS)
- 10:25-10:40 University of Illinois Police Department, Counseling Center, Women’s Resource Center
- 10:40-11:00 University Library, Writers Workshop, Media Commons, and Research Data Service
- 11:00-11:10 Technology Services, The Career Center
- 11:10-11:20 Break
- 11:20-11:35 University Bursar
- 11:35-12:00 McKinley Health Center, Student Health Insurance
- 12:00-12:05 Break
- 12:05-12:30 Academic Expectations Breakout Rooms: Graduate College / Undergraduate
Registration
New international students may register for Spring Orientation via Zoom. The orientation is scheduled for Tuesday, January 13, 2026, from 10:00am-12:30pm CST.
Recording
A recording of the Spring 2026 orientation FAQ session will be posted here after the event.
Welcome Events
In addition to virtual orientation, we invite you to attend social events at the beginning of the semester. All new undergraduate and graduate students are welcome to attend.
Coffee Across Cultures Hour
Thursday, January 22, 2026, from 12:00-1:50 PM CST (No registration required)
Join us for coffee, tea, and snacks at the first meeting of the semester of this monthly program that brings people together over coffee, tea, and pastries to explore global traditions and the diverse ways communities connect through shared rituals. Each session centers on a unique theme that opens space for conversation, storytelling, and cross-cultural exchange, celebrating the richness of perspectives and practices from around the world.
Virtual Resource Fair
We are excited to offer a Virtual Campus Resource Fair! This Box folder includes a wealth of information about our campus partners’ services that you can view at any time. Our campus partners are excited to welcome you to campus!
Contact Us
If you have any questions, please contact International Student and Scholar Services via email at isss-programs@illinois.edu.