Grinnell’s active F-1 students and J-1 Exchange Visitors should visit the OISA’s GrinnellShare site (log-in required) for up-to-date information related to immigration status and regulatory compliance.
One of the most important ways that the OISA supports international students and Exchange Visitors is to teach them about the benefits and limitations of their non-immigrant status. We are fluent in these issues, and we maintain relevant professional networks like NAFSA and the Presidents’ Alliance. We also rely on specialized legal counsel via Ware Immigration and Dentons Davis Brown.
The OISA manages institutional compliance with the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS), which includes:
- Grinnell’s I-17 certification, which allows the College to enroll F-1 students throughout the F-1 lifecycle: from I-20 issuance and initial entry; throughout the full four-year degree program; and for up to three years following graduation for eligible alum who use Practical Training benefits to gaining work experience in the U.S.
- Grinnell’s Exchange Visitor Program designation, which allows the College to host J-1 visitors in Professor, Research Scholar, Short Term Scholar, Specialist, and non-degree Student categories.
We also prioritize Compliance With Care for students and scholars via robust educational resources, including:
- On arrival, The OISA facilitates mandatory trainings (including IPOP) that are specific to F-1 or J-1 compliance.
- Throughout the year we offer weekly e-mail announcements via “FYI from OISA”; regular “F-1@4” Information Sessions; and easy-to access individual advising appointments.
- F-1 students have access to a GrinnImmigration Portal (Terra Dotta ISSS) through which they submit immigration related benefits and requests to the OISA.
- The OISA GrinnellShare Site (login required) offers easy-access advising materials on a range of topics including: Document Maintenance; Travel Advisories; Curricular, Optional, and STEM Practical Training Authorization; Non-Resident Tax Compliance; REAL ID Application Procedures; Local Banking Options; Scam Alert & Prevention; Volunteer Service vs. Unpaid Work; F-1 Status and Academic Decisions; etc.
- The OISA includes three full-time staff who are dedicated to international student success. In addition to direct student support, we actively collaborate with a multitude of staff and faculty partners who are also essential to the international student journey.
Related questions can be directed to oisa@grinnell.edu.