New Students
We’re thrilled to welcome you to your new home at Central Michigan University! As you begin your journey in the United States, this page is here to guide you through your first weeks on campus. Whether it’s your first time in the U.S. or you're returning, the International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) office is here to support you every step of the way. Welcome to the CMU community!
New student orientation
Before the start of each semester, Central Michigan University hosts a series of arrival and orientation programs for all new international students. During the mandatory orientation, you will become familiar with the campus and available resources. The program covers:
- ISSS services.
- Immigration regulations.
- Campus safety.
- Health insurance.
- Student employment.
- Local transportation.
- Campus activities and resources.
- Student organizations.
More information about orientation will be provided during your check-in session. You will receive access to the online Pre-Arrival Information when your I-20 is issued. This Pre-Arrival Information will contain information about the visa process, housing, health insurance, and many other important topics.
Check-in process
All new-arriving international students must complete the check-in process with International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS). To do so, please complete the following steps in order:
- Log in to the International student portal with your CMICH email (Global ID) and password.
- Under the "Requests" page, click on the "International Student Check In" request option. If you do not see this option, please email arrival@cmich.edu.
- In the check-in request, you will submit the following documents:
- Your signed I-20.
- Your visa.
- Your entry stamp.
- Your passport biography page.
- Your most recent I-94 (After entering the US you can download your I-94 using the link: https://i94.cbp.dhs.gov/I94/#/home).
- I-94 Travel History (click on the "View Travel History" button after downloading your I-94; print to PDF to save to your computer).
- U.S. physical address (where you are/will be living).
- U.S. phone number (if you have one).
If you have any questions about these documents or following your check-in, please email arrival@cmich.edu for assistance. Note that you will not be able to check in if you are not in the U.S. You may also schedule an appointment with an advisor.
Important dates and reminders
Fall 2025
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| August 21 | New Student Orientation |
Stay tuned for other important dates to be updated.
Frequently asked questions
How many credits do I need to register for?
Undergraduate students: You must be enrolled in a total of 12 credits. You must have 9 in-person/hybrid credits to maintain your status.
Graduate students: You must be enrolled in a total of 9 credits. You must have 6 in-person/hybrid credits to maintain your status.
Graduate students with GA: You must be enrolled in a total of 6 credits. You must have 3 in-person/hybrid credits to maintain your status.
How do I transfer from CMU to another school?
To transfer out as a student who has never attended classes, please complete the following steps:
- Check in the ISSS portal.
- Pay orientation fee (in person with exact cash: 330 Ronan Hall or online).
- Complete the transfer-out request in the ISSS portal.
After all these steps are completed, allow 5 business (working) days to process your transfer request. If you have any questions or need further assistance, please contact us.