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Eastern Illinois University

New Student & Family Programs

International Student Orientation – Spring 2026 Admit

Welcome to EIU, Charleston, and the United States–we’re so excited that you’re here!

Your success at Eastern Illinois University is determined not only by the quality of your academic work, but also by how quickly you connect to the campus. To assist you in your transition, EIU requires you to participate in Orientation.

International Orientation

EIU hosts an Orientation specifically for our newest international students. Continuing your education in another country is a major transition and we want to make sure we’re helping you be successful. You might be asking yourself, What is Orientation? We’re glad you asked. Orientation is the process of helping new students getting welcomed and acclimated to campus so that you can start your EIU journey off on the right foot. It is designed to address the most common questions and concerns that international students have, as well as cover important information such as immigration regulations about your visa, academic expectations, and cultural adjustment. Orientation is required for all new international students who are F-1 and J-1 visa holders.

Registering for a Program

Once you have submitted your visa information, you can sign up for an Orientation date through MyEIU. You will receive an email inviting you to register for Orientation. The invitation will contain a program reservation link to myEIU. Students will need to complete the reservation form online to secure a program date.

Students Entering Summer or Spring 2026

Thursday, January 8, 2026

*Please plan on arriving to campus before January 8. Orientation is required for all new international students who are F-1 and J-1 visa holders.

 

 

CONTACT THE DEPARTMENT

New Student & Family Programs

McAfee Gym, Room 1302
(217) 581-6435
nsfp@eiu.edu

Office Hours

Monday-Friday 8 am-4:30 pm