Exchange Visitor Welcome Guide

Applying for a J-1 Visa

Here is a list of the required documentation to apply for your J-1 visa from the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA). ECA is a part of the Department of State, and they have a website with information for Exchange Visitors which holds useful information: https://j1visa.state.gov/.

Steps to Take Before Coming to Campus

1. Pay the SEVIS I-901 Fee
2. Get your J-1 visa
3. Select Health Insurance
4. Book your travel tickets
   • Don't forget about arriving in time for your orientation dates
   • You can enter the U.S. up to 30 days before the start date on your I-20
5. Contact your hosting academic department to ensure open lines of communication between you, the department, and ISSS.
6. Confirm housing arrangements or book a hotel in Troy while you look for permanent housing.  
   1. Franklin Square Inn
   2. Hilton Garden Inn

Steps to Take After You Arrive in the U.S.

1. Email isssoffice@rpi.edu to schedule an Exchange Visitor Orientation Session.  Include a copy of each of the following in the email (This must be completed within one week of arrival):
   1. DS-2019
   2. Passport
   3. J-1 Visa
   4. Proof of Health Insurance
   5. Most recent I-94 record (found online at https://i94.cbp.dhs.gov/home)
2. Within 1-2 weeks of completion of the above you will be assigned a RPI Identification Number (RIN)
3. After you receive your RIN you can set up your RPI Email (RCS Account) - Follow these instructions