Newly Admitted Students

Congratulations—You're in!

So, now what?

We are delighted, and honored, that you will be attending Westfield State University. Our office is your starting point for detailed immigration-related guidelines, resources, and information.

Monitor Your WSU Email

We recommend that you get in the habit of checking your WSU email address daily. Most correspondence from WSU will go to your school email address. We will also send you orientation and arrival emails in the days and weeks prior to your arrival. 

Applying for a Visa

As international students or scholar at WSU, you must apply for the most appropriate visa that will enable you to enter the U.S. to commence or resume your academic activities. The length of the visa will vary depending on your country of citizenship and your visa classification. The visa must always be valid when entering the U.S. but may expire after you have entered the U.S. For more information regarding applying for a visa, visit Applying for a Visa.

Once admitted as a student or scholar at WSU, IPO will help you determine your status and keep track of appropriate documents and procedures. As an international student or scholar, keeping on top of these procedures is integral to maintaining your status in the U.S.

Initial Check-In

New students and scholars must check in with the IPO to ensure all relevant documents and procedures have been processed or have been completed. Check-in provides the IPO the opportunity to review your immigration documents, help you get settled on campus, and provide answers to your questions as you begin your activities at WSU.

Completing check-in is required by immigration regulations. Please plan to complete your initial IPO check-in immediately after you have arrived in the U.S. or, to campus to begin your activities to avoid jeopardizing your legal immigration status in the U.S. and contact us with any questions concerning your immigration status or your adjustment to WSU.

New Student Orientation

Orientation is an important part of starting your time at WSU and is required for both international students and J-1 WSU sponsored international scholars. Orientation offers both students and scholars the opportunity to learn how best to successfully transition to the U.S. and the WSU community. These mandatory sessions feature an introduction to IPO services and include vital visa and immigration information, as well as important tips on cultural adjustment, the American classroom, and health. For more information on orientation, visit New Student Orientation.

Health Insurance

Health care in the U.S. may be quite different from that of your home country. Medical treatment in the Westfield area is very good, but American health care can be expensive—there is no socialized or national health care system in the U.S. Health insurance is necessary to help defray those high costs.

In addition, federal and state regulations have insurance mandates that you will need to be aware of and comply with during your stay in the U.S., including requirements specific to students in Massachusetts, residents of Massachusetts, and J-1 exchange visitors. For more information regarding health insurance and medical care, visit Health Services.

WSU Student Organizations

Student organizations can be a great way to keep up with a favorite activity, find a new one, and make friends within WSU’s community. Many organizations are active in the University and local communities, and organize numerous events, lectures, and cultural performances throughout the year. All student-run organizations at WSU are maintained through Student Activities, Involvement, and Leadership (SAIL). For more information regarding student organizations and resources, visit Student Life.

Throughout the process, we in IPO are here to help make your transition to Westfield easier and more enjoyable.