Prepare for your Stay at Mason (J-1 Scholar)

The information below will help you to prepare for your trip to the US and George Mason University:

Once you have received your Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor (DS-2019 Form), please check the dates carefully.  You can enter the United States up to 30 days before the program begin date listed on your Form DS-2019.  If your plans change and you have to arrive 10 days past the start date on the form, please contact your hosting department and J-1 advisor, Irina V. Chizhova at ichizhov@gmu.edu.

Pre-Arrival Guide and Other Resources

Pre-Arrival Information

We have prepared the Pre-Arrival Guide for you to use as you make your preparations for arrival to George Mason University. It includes information about the SEVIS fee, visa interview, finding housing, banks, day care facilities, and schools.

We also encourage you to explore the following before arrival:

DS-2019 Frequently Asked Questions

Welcome Brochure of the U.S. Department of State
J-1 Scholar Check-in Form
Health Insurance Agreement
Be Aware of Scams

Dear J-1 Scholars:

After your arrival to the U.S, please reach out to ichizhov@gmu.edu for your Online SEVIS Validation Appointment and mandatory Orientation.  You do not have to visit the Office of International Programs and Services (OIPS) in-person.

Please send a copy of your DS-2019 Form (s), J-1 and J-2 visa (s), most recent I-94 record, and proof of health insurance for the duration of your DS-2019. Read, complete, and sign J-1 Scholar Check-In Form and Health Insurance Agreement. Send all the documents via secure link. You are welcome to reach out with your questions and concerns.  Your email will be addressed in 24 -48 hours hours.