This Online J-1 Exchange Visitor Handbook has been prepared by the West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission (WVHEPC) and its Exchange Visitor Program Consortium member institutions:
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Bluefield State College
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Concord University
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Fairmont State University
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Glenville State College
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Shepherd University
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West Liberty University
All of us join in welcoming you to West Virginia! We hope that your stay at our consortium member institutions will be both pleasant and successful. This online handbook has been prepared in an attempt to provide you with the information you will need to begin your program. Please take the time to read the online handbook carefully. It is important that you understand the regulations you must follow.
All new exchange visitors must schedule a check-in with the WVHEPC institution he/she will be collaborating with immediately upon arrival in West Virginia. At your check-in, your SEVIS record will be made active. Bring all your immigration documents with you (passport, DS-2019, and I-94 card). You must arrive and check-in NO LATER than 30 days from the start date indicated on your DS-2019. If it becomes clear that you won’t arrive within this time period, please contact the appropriate Responsible/Alternate Responsible Officer so a new DS-2019 can be made. At the time you check in, you will receive information about obtaining a U.S. Social Security number. You will also receive information about a mandatory orientation you must attend.
Again, welcome to West Virginia and best wishes for a successful professional and personal experience.