Below you will find answers to frequently asked questions. If you cannot find the answer here, please contact us at 713-348-6095 or send an email to oiss@rice.edu.

Where do I find the procedures for international student admissions?

All information for admissions processing of new international students can be found on the International Student page. If you have any additional questions, please feel free to contact our office at x6095.

Where do I find the procedures on inviting a scholar on a J-1 visa?

Detailed instructions for inviting a scholar on a J-1 visa can be found on the J-1 Scholars page under the Academic Departments menu. Information regarding other visa options, and a flowchart explaining the J-1 process, is also available on the International Scholars page.

What is the turnaround time for processing documents for students on F-1 or J-1 visas?

OISS strives to provide the quickest turnaround possible when processing immigration documents for incoming students. However, the timeline depends on how quickly the students upload the required documents in their OISS Portal accounts. Most student I-20s and DS-2019s will be processed within 2 weeks of receiving all the necessary documentation.

What is the turnaround time for processing documents for scholars on J-1 visas?

OISS strives to provide the quickest turnaround possible when processing immigration documents for incoming scholars. To this end, we rely heavily on academic departments to provide complete packets including all required documents, without which we cannot proceed. For J-1 scholars, please note that a 90 days lead time is required, to allow time not only for OISS processing, but also for the visa application process the scholar must complete in their home country. Most complete scholar packets will be processed within 2 weeks.