Mandatory J-1 Exchange Visitor Orientation

We recommend that you arrive before the start of the Orientation Program in order to find housing and become acquainted with KSU. The U.S. Department of State requires us, as your program sponsor, to provide you with an orientation program. After you attend the orientation, International Affairs will validate your arrival in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) database. This validation notifies the Department of Homeland Security that you have arrived and begun your J-1 exchange visitor program and changes your SEVIS record to “ACTIVE” status.

What to Bring

You will need to bring the following documents to your orientation session for you and any accompanying J-2 dependents:

  • Passport(s)
  • I-94 Arrival/Departure Record records(s)
  • DS-2019(s)
  • Proof of insurance
  • Local U.S. Address
  • Emergency Contact information
  • Local Frankfort phone number or the number of your hosting department at Kentucky State University.


Topics Covered at Orientation

  • Maintaining immigration status
  • Medical and evacuation/repatriation insurance, and University Health Services
  • Employment
  • Finance and banking concerns
  • Security and safety
  • Obtaining a Kentucky Driver’s License and Tips for Safe Driving, University ID, Social Security Number (SSN)
  • Travel procedures
  • Intercultural programs and activities
  • Understanding American life and customs
  • Local transportation and shopping options to consider
  • Services provided by KSU/OIA


IMPORTANT: Orientation is mandatory and a part of your J-1 visa requirement. Failure to attend orientation and have your SEVIS record validated may result in future immigration complications as well as problems obtaining a Social Security Number.

Your J-2 dependent family members are welcome to attend the orientation with you if space permits; however, the J-1 Visitor is the only one who is required to attend. If your family members do not accompany you to orientation, please remember to bring their documents and insurance for verification.