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Winter 2026 International Center Orientation

Congratulations on your acceptance to the University of Michigan (U-M)! International Center (IC) staff is excited to welcome you to campus!

See a list of comprehensive resources for new international students, parents, families, and virtual offerings below. If you have any questions, please contact the International Center at [email protected].

Pre-Departure Orientation

To help you prepare for your arrival to campus, the IC will offer a virtual Pre-Departure Orientation session on Thursday, December 18 from 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM Eastern Time. International Center staff will share valuable information about U-M campus life, immigration, and resources. This event will be recorded. You can find more information about the Pre-Departure Orientation and register for the event here.

Canvas Course

Once you have joined the International Center Winter Orientation Canvas course, you will be able to view previously recorded Peer-to-Peer Conversations (presentations by current international students on a number of topics) and additional workshop presentations/videos delivered by U-M departments.

All of the topics in Canvas are designed to help you with your transition to living in Ann Arbor and beginning your studies at the University of Michigan. Below are some examples of the topics that might interest you:

  • Academic Support/Cultural Transition
    • How to use Canvas & Wolverine Access
    • Communicating with Academic Advisors
    • Cultural Differences in the Classroom
  • Practical Matters:
    • Banking & Budgeting
    • Shopping in Ann Arbor
    • Finding an On-Campus Job
    • U.S. Tax Withholding Forms
    • Making the Most of your GSI/GSRA Experience
  • Transportation and Safety:
    • Transportation in Ann Arbor
    • Getting a Driver's License & Buying a Car
    • Personal safety
    • Understanding U.S. and local laws (“It’s Not Just a Good Idea … It’s the Law!”)
  • Social/Wellbeing:
    • Health & Wellbeing at U-M
    • Getting Involved on campus & making friends
    • Healthy Relationships & Dating in the U.S.
    • Things to do in Ann Arbor
Pre-Arrival Communications

The International Center curates a series of emails to help prepare you for your arrival at the University of Michigan. You will receive these emails to your umich email account before your arrival on campus. Archived messages are accessible below:

Blog and Videos

Orientation Peer Advisers (current international students) have written blog posts and created videos to document their personal stories and shared useful tips with new international students.

Winter in Michigan Video

Wondering how to prepare for a Michigan winter? A former UM international student, Matt Wu, created a video with useful tips for surviving winter in Michigan. Matt covers topics such as what to wear, walking and driving in the snow/ice, fun things to do, and more! We will also be offering our biannual “How to Survive (and Thrive!) in a Michigan Winter” presentation in early January. More details will be shared soon!

On-Campus Events

The IC will plan events in January for new international students. These events will also be listed on the IC calendar and shared via email. 

Virtual Events
Additional Resources