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Office of International Engagement

Orientation

All new international students are expected to attend New International Student Orientation (including students transferring from other U.S. universities).

Orientation begins the week before classes. View Orientation schedule.

ISSS Check-In

All new international students must check-in with ISSS after arriving in the U.S. by following the steps found here.

Orientation is an important, helpful, and fun way to begin your life at Illinois State. Students check-in with OIE staff, meet other students, become acquainted with places and services on campus and in the community, go on shopping trips, and more! Students will also attend informational sessions on a variety of important topics to help them begin their studies successfully.

Fun Social Events During Orientation

Shopping Trip

Just moved in and need some essentials? Join our community organizations for trips to the local Walmart to pick up everything from bed sheets to bread. This will also be a great opportunity to learn about these organizations and the services they provide.

Campus Tours

Learn about important buildings on campus first hand! IOT Leaders will take you on a tour of campus and point out important places and the services they provide!

Welcome Dinner

All NEW international students are invited to attend a welcome dinner with OIE staff to kick off the beginning of the semester and formally welcome new students to the campus.

Bowling and Pizza Event

Join RETURNING international students and IOT Leaders for a night of free pizza and fun! Make sure to wear socks and meet at the ISU Bowling and Billiards Center to put on ugly bowling shoes and knock down some pins! This will be a great opportunity to hang out with other international students in a relaxed environment.

Community Bus Tours

Hop on the Connect Transit bus system and get to know the Bloomington-Normal community! IOT leaders will walk with you from I-House to the bus station, show you how to navigate the buses, and give you some great insights about the local area attractions. Find out where to shop, eat, and have fun!

Explore Orientation

    1. Schedule
    2. To-Do List
    3. Check-in Request

Orientation Team Leaders

Each incoming international student will be assigned an International Orientation Team (IOT) student leader to help answer questions about what life is like in Bloomington-Normal and help guide them as they prepare to travel to Illinois State University. These IOT Leaders are graduate and undergraduate students at ISU and have experience with many of the different programs and services offered by the institution.

IOT Group Photo