Information about UCEAP and MBA Exchange Orientation

• International Student Pre-Arrival Orientation

  • Virtual; Required
  • Hear from fellow international students and learn about UC Davis and life in the U.S.
  • Prepare for coming to UC Davis. Topics include Arriving in the U.S., Life in the U.S. and on Campus, Culture at UCD, and more!
  • You must complete Pre-Arrival Orientation to receive your Form DS-2019. 

• International Student Arrival Orientation

  • Virtual; Required
  • Learn about UCD academic policies and international student visa regulations.
  • Prepare to be a successful international student at UC Davis. Topics include enrollment requirements, reporting requirements, travel, and more.
  • You will receive access to the virtual arrival orientation by email after you arrive in the U.S. and complete the online check-in.

• SISS Welcome Events and Information Sessions

  • Virtual and In-Person; Highly Encouraged
  • Wednesday, Sept. 17, 2025
    • UC SHIP (Student Health Insurance Plan) Information Session, 9 a.m.–10 a.m.
      • Register for Zoom
      • Learn more about your Student Health Insurance Plan and how to access its benefits.
    • Biking in Davis Information Session, 10:10 a.m.–11:10 a.m.
      • Register for Zoom
      • UC Davis is a Platinum-Rated Bicycle Friendly University, recognized by The League of American Bicyclists for its exceptional cycling infrastructure and culture. With bicycling as the #1 mode of transportation on campus, our Bicycle Program is here to support the Aggie community with education, resources, and services to keep everyone riding safely and efficiently.
  • Thursday, September 18, 2025
    • Prioritizing Health & Well-being for Success Webinar, 9 a.m.–10 a.m.
      • Register for Zoom
      • Your success starts with a healthy body and mind. Hear from multiple support service professionals in our UC Davis community about how to prioritize and support your health for ultimate success at UC Davis.
  • Monday, September 22, 2025
    • Campus Walking Tour, 1 p.m.– 2:15 p.m.
      • Meet at the entrance of the International Center
      • Meet your fellow new community members on this tour led by ASUCD’s Office of the International Student Representative.
  • Tuesday, September 23, 2025
    • Global Ambassador Mentorship Program Community Building for Undergrads, 1 p.m.–2 p.m.
      • RSVP for the event
      • Starting your first year in a new country is an exciting adventure—but it can also feel a bit overwhelming. In this session, a panel of current international undergraduate students will share their experiences and insights about adjusting to life at UC Davis. You’ll hear firsthand how they found community, navigated campus resources, and overcame challenges. Bring your questions and join the conversation—this is your chance to learn what they wish they had known and discover ways to build meaningful connections as a global Aggie.
    • Undergraduate Ice Cream Social, 2 p.m.–3 p.m.
      • RSVP Here 

When to Arrive

All students coming to the U.S. to study on a 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.

Transfer students may travel and re-enter the United States any time while between school programs. However, transfer students must re-enter with their UC Davis 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.