SISS Newsletter

July 2021 SISS Newsletter

Information and Updates

Fall Planning Update

A friendly reminder from Services for International Students and Scholars (SISS) that our Fall Planning webpage can answer some of your questions as you make arrangements for the quarter ahead.

Learn more about fall 2021 planning

Student Visa and Travel Updates and Letter of Support

SISS is here to support you! That is why we are offering students a formal letter of support as an additional document for their visa applications. Students may choose to include this with their documents when submitting visa applications or going for in-person interviews. Download this letter of support in iGlobal when you log into your Term Plan.

Please also be aware that on April 26, 2021, the U.S. State Department announced a National Interest Exception for students from certain countries. This emergency measure grants travel into the United States and is automatically applied when applying for a visa.

If you do not qualify for the National Interest Exception, keep checking visa appointment wait times for consulates and embassies in your preferred city so you can request an appointment as soon as they are available.

SISS Closed for Independence Day Holiday

SISS will close at 2 p.m. (PDT) on July 2 and will be closed on July 5, 2021, for the national holiday.

Summer Travel Not Recommended for Those in the U.S.

If you are in the United States and plan to be on campus for fall 2021, SISS recommends you not travel this summer. Travel is still very unpredictable, and we wouldn't want you to risk your ability to attend classes this fall. Please check with your SISS Advisor if you have any questions.

Submit Your Fall Plan Now

Please help SISS provide and assist you with proper documentation by submitting your Summer or Fall Term Plan in iGlobal immediately. If you have questions about your term plan or other visa issues, please contact your SISS Advisor.

Assistance with Admission at U.S. Ports of Entry

With your correct documentation, students should be admitted into the United States at a port of entry. Should a student presenting their proper documentation be denied entry, please contact the UC Davis Police at 530-752-1727 for assistance.

Finding Your SISS Advisor

SISS Advisors are assigned by last name and/or area of expertise. Visit the Staff Directory to find your SISS Advisor. Schedule a phone or online appointment directly with your SISS Advisor.

COVID-19 and Campus Updates for International Students and Scholars

Please continue to connect with campus resources to stay informed about how COVID-19 impacts operations and new information as it becomes available.

As always, advisors within Services for International Students and Scholars (SISS) are available as resources if you have questions about visa and immigration status. Find your SISS Advisor and schedule an appointment.


Programs and Events

Life After UC Davis Event Recording Now Available

If you missed the Life After UC Davis event for undergraduate students, graduate/professional students, and postdocs who plan to stay in the United States to work after leaving UC Davis, the webinar recording is now available.

Watch the recording

Download the presentation slides

Scholar Coffee Break

We invite international scholars to connect with each other at the monthly SISS Scholar Coffee Break. Whether you are new to campus or have been here for several months, international scholars are invited to join SISS in this welcoming and virtual space. 

  • Date and time: July 8, 2021, 9-10 a.m. (PDT)

Learn more and register

Prepare for Fall Quarter with Aggie Insider-Student Send-off

The Undergraduate Admissions International Aggie Force students will reveal their insider tips on how to make the very best of your UC Davis experience. They will share secrets and strategies around Academics, Social Life, Safety, Jobs, Food, and more!

  • Date and time: August 11, 2021, 5 a.m. (PDT)

Learn more and register


Opportunities and Announcements

Receive Mentorship in 2021-22; Applications Now Open

The Global Ambassador Mentorship Program is designed to help new first-year and transfer undergraduate international students successfully adjust to life at UC Davis. We match new international students with current students based on similar interests to connect them with a community of support and friends. Apply today to be matched with a peer mentor for the 2021-22 year.

Learn more and apply for mentorship

Accessing the Library VPN Now Requires Duo Authentication

The library VPN – which enables access to many journal articles, databases, digital media, and other library resources from off-campus – will require Duo authentication in addition to the user's UC Davis Kerberos (CAS) login.

Learn how to use Duo with the library VPN

COVID-19 Vaccines May Be Available at Some U.S. Airports

Some U.S. airports are currently offering vaccinations to travelers. Please visit the website of the airport you will travel through to learn more.

Learn more about vaccination availability at SFO

Learn more about vaccination availability at LAX

All people aged 16 and older are eligible to receive the vaccine in California. People currently in California can schedule a vaccine appointment through the My Turn website. More information about vaccines for international travelers coming to UC Davis can be found on our Fall Planning webpage.

Employment Workshops Now Available On-Demand Online

Interested in OPT or CPT? We have made F-1 Employment Workshops available online. Select your workshop to get started.


Student and Scholar Spotlight

Global Aggies: Amplifying Global LGBTQ History in the Classroom and Across East Asia

Born in Taiwan and raised in Canada, Howard Chiang is an associate professor and expert in East Asian studies. He is dedicated to advancing LGBTQ history through international collaborations.

"Because the interest of sexual minorities is often neglected in history textbooks and mainstream media, I wanted to do something about that," says Chiang.

Read more

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