(updated as of 06/26/2025)

What is UIO?

Undergraduate International Orientation (UIO) is a mandatory program taking place from August 15–17 for students entering Rice on F-1 or J-1 visas. During UIO, we will cover important topics such as F-1 and J-1 visa regulations, the role of OISS, and how we can support you throughout your time at Rice.

If you are on a different visa type or are pending U.S. permanent residency, you are not required to attend UIO.

What is the UIO Schedule?

Over the summer (May–August), new and transfer international students will be invited to join monthly Zoom calls to help prepare for their transition to Rice. In addition, F-1 and J-1 students are required to complete an online orientation program before arriving on campus.

UIO final schedule coming soon!/p>

How do I plan for arrival in the U.S.?

OISS is very excited to launch Homebase, a platform where we can provide easy access to online courses that will educate you on important immigration processes. When you receive your I-20 or DS-2019, you will get instructions to register for the following courses for incoming students:
1) F-1 (or J-1) Student Pre-Arrival & Immigration Compliance
2) New Student Visa Tracking

The F-1 (or J-1) Student Pre-Arrival & Immigration Compliance course is a mandatory part of your immigration check-in process. In addition to covering important information about your F-1 status and how to maintain it, it also provides valuable pre-arrival guidance to best prepare you for your arrival. Therefore, we recommend that you start the course at your earliest convenience.

The New Student Visa Tracking course consists of a simple online form, where you can keep Rice informed on where you are in your visa application process. We ask that you return to update this form as you progress on your journey to Rice.

We also look forward to launching some Community features during the summer. Stay tuned for more information!

You’ll also receive biweekly emails from our Assistant Director for International Undergraduate Students, Marjorie Cerejo, with important updates and helpful information to guide you through the process.

UIO Advisors

The UIO Advisors are a team of international undergraduate students who will serve as your guides during your first few days at Rice. They will lead you through the UIO experience and help you get acclimated to campus life. Each advisor is not only an outstanding student and a strong leader, but also a friendly and welcoming presence.

To learn more about your UIO Advisors, visit https://oiss.rice.edu/uiostaff.

Additional Frequently Asked Questions

Is UIO mandatory?

Yes, for all F-1 and J-1 visa students.

Is there a cost for UIO?

Yes, a fee of $395 will be charged to your student account. UIO is for F-1 and J-1 students only. If you are on another visa type and are charged, please email oiss@rice.edu and we will work to get the charge removed from your account.

When do I need to arrive in Houston?

Friday, August 15th, between 8:00 am and 5 pm, you will move to your residential college for UIO. You can arrive up to 30 days before the program start date on your I-20/DS-2019, but you will not be able to move into your residential college until Friday, August 15. For information on local hotels, please visit https://success.rice.edu/parents-family/new-families-orientation/hotels.

Where can I find a hotel that will allow me to make a reservation since I am under 21 years old?

Hilton Houston Plaza/Medical Center is happy to assist you with your reservation and it is within walking distance of Rice.

Please use the following booking link:
Booking Link: https://secure3.hilton.com/en_US/hi/reservation/book.htm?ctyhocn=HOUMCHF&corporateCode=2777536&from=lnrlink
Hotel: Hilton Houston Plaza/Medical Center
Company Name: Rice University
Contact Information:
HILTON HOUSTON PLAZA/MEDICAL CENTER
t: +1 713 313 4618 I f: +1 713 313 4650

For questions, contact Marjorie Cerejo at marjorie@rice.edu.