September 2025 SISS Newsletter
Information and Updates
Proposed Rule Would Change Duration of Status
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) proposed a new federal rule that would replace the current duration of status with fixed time periods for the length of stay for F and J visa holders, along with a formalized process for requesting extensions, which DHS would oversee. This proposed rule is not yet in effect. It is open to receive public comments through September 27, 2025. After the comment period ends, the proposal will be reevaluated and may be revised based on the public comments received.
Along with our colleagues across the UC system, we are assessing the details and potential impact of this proposed rule change. SISS will continue to provide updates on this topic as information becomes available.
Information from the DHS about the proposed change
Federal Government Updates for International Students and Scholars
As SISS becomes aware of updates to important visa and immigration-related matters, we will publish the information on our website.
While immigration and visa changes are often discussed online, we encourage you to rely on us for verified updates.
University of California Guidance
With numerous, quickly evolving federal policy shifts underway, the University of California is working diligently to monitor these developments and seek clarity on a range of issues.
Visit the UC Federal Updates webpage
Read and download the "Know Your Rights if Approached by Immigration Enforcement Agents" card
Getting Settled at UC Davis
With fall quarter approaching, you are probably preparing for the upcoming academic year. Whether you are a new or current student or scholar, we encourage you to connect with campus and build your community of support. SISS offers guidance and information about housing, settling in Davis and Sacramento, campus activities and clubs, transportation, nearby shopping, and more.
Browse the International Student and Scholar Handbook
Beware of Job Scams
With the start of the academic year approaching, reports of fake job scams have increased. These scams often involve emails that seem to be from a UC Davis faculty member offering remote work jobs that do not actually exist.
If you get an email about a job you did not apply for, be cautious; it could be a scam. Do not respond, click on any links or open attachments from the email.
Learn more about how to identify a job scam
Follow us on Instagram
Follow the Global Affairs Instagram account for programs, events, updates and more.
Find Global Affairs on Instagram
Programs and Events
Scholar Coffee Break
We invite international scholars (visiting faculty and researchers) to connect 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: September 4, 9–10 a.m.
Orientation for Students Who Are Parents
Incoming students who are parents and their families are invited to an in-person orientation. Attendees will enjoy an opportunity to network with other student parents, connect with campus and community resources, and introduce their families to UC Davis. Lunch and children's activities will be provided.
Date and time: September 21, 12–3 p.m.
Location: Putah Creek Lodge
Global Ambassador Mentorship Program Meet and Greet
Undergraduate students, join the Global Ambassador Mentorship Program’s welcome event! Meet peer mentors, connect with students from around the world, and learn about our quarterly events. Enjoy free food, fun activities and a chance to win gift cards in our raffle. Bring a friend—everyone is welcome!
Date and time: September 26, 5:30–7 p.m.
Get Matched with a Global Ambassador Peer Mentor
Incoming international undergrads, are you ready for UC Davis? Apply now for a Global Ambassador mentor. Get matched with a peer mentor and ask about classes, campus clubs, cultural adjustment, and U.S. student life. Make a friend before you arrive and join our fun social events!
Pal Program Accepting Registrations for Fall Quarter
The Pal Program pairs up international and domestic undergraduate students for intercultural conversation experiences. Participants can use these sessions to increase their intercultural awareness, learn about a target language, and develop friendships. Add new skills to your resume, contribute to a welcoming UC Davis campus community and make new friends. Fall quarter registration is open now.
Learn more, including how you can earn credit toward graduation
Fall Internship and Career Fairs
The UC Davis Career Center has several virtual and in-person fairs planned for this fall, from August to October.
Learn more and find dates and times
Opportunities and Announcements
ASUCD Office of the International Student Representative is Hiring
The Office of the International Student Representative within ASUCD is hiring students for the Head of Staff and two Director positions. The office strives to provide a safe, equitable and informative space for all international students on campus. International students are encouraged to apply.
Deadline: September 14
Students Can Sign up for Global Pathfinders: Charting a Path to Global Learning in Fall 2025
This seminar (CRN: 32740) is an excellent way for you to meet other first-year students, build community, get to know campus and explore how to engage in global learning while at UC Davis. Meeting Tuesdays from 10 to 10:50 a.m. during fall quarter at the International Center, 3119.
EAP 001: Global Thinking Offered in Fall Quarter 2025
This interdisciplinary course aims to develop students’ skills as global actors and change-makers—from critical thinking and problem-solving, to creative research, effective writing and public speaking, strategic project management, and intercultural communication. This course can also satisfy Global Studies Minor requirements.
Getting Involved with a Student Organization
Students are encouraged to connect and engage with student organizations on campus. UC Davis has many options to get involved and make friends. Find a student organization through the Center for Student Involvement. Search by interest or schedule a virtual meeting to learn more.
Visit the Center for Student Involvement
Join Club-I
Club-I is a group for internationals and locals in Davis. The group meets, makes friends, finds people to travel with and has fun with various social activities. Club-I meets once a week, usually on Friday evenings, for group dinners and other events.
Learn more by emailing club-i@internationalhousedavis.org
Welcome Dinner for Newly Arrived Visiting Scholars
Community Friends of Scholars is a local organization of volunteers sponsored by International Students, Inc. (ISI), with staff and volunteers from area churches. They hold monthly Welcome Dinners for newly arrived visiting scholars. At the dinners, scholars can sign up for other activities, like Zoom cooking classes and farm tours. For more information, email Simon Zeigler with ISI at szeigler@isionline.org.