Prepare to join the K community
Your admission is the beginning of a series of steps to obtain your immigration documents, prepare for arrival and complete required orientation. The CIP will guide you through the process.
Start with these three places
Important information will be shared across the resources below. Check them regularly throughout the summer.
Check your K email
Watch for individualized instructions, deadlines, orientation updates and messages from the CIP.
Complete orientation modules
Use Moodle for required pre-arrival learning, detailed preparation guidance and orientation resources.
Review your status page
Complete admission requirements.
Your pre-arrival roadmap
1
Receive and review your immigration document
Degree-seeking students receive an I-20 for F-1 status. Exchange students receive a DS-2019 for J-1 status. Review the document as soon as you receive it and contact the CIP if your name, date of birth, program dates or other information is incorrect.
2
Apply for your student visa
- Pay the required I-901 SEVIS fee.
- Complete the appropriate visa application.
- Schedule a visa interview, if required.
- Follow the current instructions from the U.S. embassy or consulate where you apply.
- Bring all required original documents to your appointment.
3
Complete your summer preparation
- Complete the required International Student Orientation Moodle modules.
- Check your K email regularly for instructions and deadlines.
- Submit required health, immunization, housing and College forms.
- Review health insurance, banking, phone, weather and packing information.
- Learn about K’s quarter system, liberal arts curriculum and academic expectations.
Plan your arrival
Official Fall 2026 Arrival Day: Saturday, September 5
This is the day new international students should plan to arrive and move into campus housing. Students arriving earlier must arrange their own temporary accommodations until the official arrival date.
- Free transportation will be available from the Kalamazoo-Battle Creek International Airport, Kalamazoo Transit Center and designated local hotels between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.
- Students arriving outside that window should contact the CIP before finalizing their plans.
- Submit the Travel Plans and Arrival Form after your complete itinerary is confirmed.
- If your plans change or you experience a delay, notify the CIP as soon as possible.
Attend required orientation
International Student Orientation
Sunday, September 6–Tuesday, September 8, 2026
Required for new F-1 and J-1 students. Sessions address immigration responsibilities, academic expectations, health care, finances, cultural adjustment, safety and community life.
New Student Orientation
Wednesday, September 9–Sunday, September 13, 2026
Required for all new Kalamazoo College students. International students transition directly from International Student Orientation into the College-wide program.
The CIP will send the detailed schedule, packing information and additional preparation instructions by email and through Moodle.
Questions about preparing for K?
Contact the Center for International Programs at ISA@kzoo.edu.