Four students walk away from the International Center behind them.

Global Aggies Welcome Activities

Global Aggies Welcome Week

We are excited that you have chosen UC Davis, and we are committed to making you feel as welcome and at home as possible. During Global Aggie Welcome Week, you will have the opportunity to join information sessions, attend an international student social, take a tour, and meet your SISS Advisor.

Before You Arrive: Virtual Information Sessions

For Students (Recorded Sessions)

Watch optional recorded sessions covering a variety of topics to help you adjust to life in Davis. (Links to recordings coming this summer.)

  • Understanding UC SHIP
    • Link to recording coming soon
  • Transportation and Biking at UC Davis
    • Link to recording coming soon
  • Banking and Finances in the U.S.
    • Link to recording coming soon

For Students and Their Parents, Family and Supporters (Webinar)

Supporting Your International Student 
  • August 7, 7-8 p.m. (Pacific)
  • New students may face different challenges to adjustment during their first year and beyond. Family members are an essential support network for their students. 
  • Join this virtual webinar to learn how parents and supporters of international students can help support their students while at UC Davis.

Register for the webinar "Supporting Your International Student"

In-Person Welcome Activities

International Student Socials

Graduate Student & Postdoc Social

Enjoy free appetizers at an informal social to meet other international graduate students and postdocs! 

  • Thursday, September 17, 2026, 4-5:30 p.m.
  • Location: Woodstock's Pizza (238 G Street, Davis)
Undergraduate & UCEAP Student Social

Enjoy free ice cream, meet new international students, and learn about ways to get connected!

  • Date and Time: Tuesday, September 22, 2–3 p.m.
  • Location: International Center, Lobby

Campus and Downtown Davis Tours

Join a student-led tour to see different parts of campus and downtown Davis, including the Farmers Market!

  • Open to all international students
  • Departs on Monday, September 21, 2026, 1 p.m.
  • Location: Meet at the International Center Lobby Entrance

When to Arrive

All students coming to the U.S. to study on an initial I-20 or DS-2019 can enter the United States up to 30 days before the program start date listed on these documents. We strongly recommend that students take advantage of this early arrival option to have enough time to recover from jet lag, become familiar with the campus and community, and finalize housing before beginning classes.

SEVIS transfer students may travel and re-enter the United States at any time while between school programs. However, transfer students must re-enter with their UC Davis I-20 or DS-2019, and not the previous school's document. They must also have a passport that is valid at least six months into the future, and a visa in their passport that is valid on the date of return to the United States.

Expectations for F-1 and J-1 Students

Additional information for J-1 UCEAP Reciprocity students

Orientation Resources

Trouble watching the videos? Don't forget to sign into the UC Davis VPN through the Library.

More Information

As always, Services for International Students and Scholars (SISS) is dedicated to helping you obtain and maintain the appropriate legal status. Find your SISS Advisors to schedule an appointment.

Stay up to date on the latest news and upcoming remote programs and events for our international community: