Pre-Arrival & Orientation
Frequently Asked Questions
Am I required to attend Orientation?
Yes, Orientation is mandatory and a part of your UIC experience. Orientation helps you get started in your semester successfully.
When will I receive my UIN and Token?
You will receive your UIN and Token to your personal email account that you listed on your application and after you are fully accepted to UIC Global. You will receive this email to activate your student account several weeks before your program starts.
Again, if you have not received your information about activating your account, and it has been longer tan 7 days after you been fully admitted, please submit a Help Ticket
When will I be enrolled in my Orientation Blackboard course?
After you activate your NetID, you will be notified through your personal email address when your Orientation course is ready. This can range from 3-5 business days. The orientation course is ready several weeks before your program begins so you have enough time to complete all the steps.
Where do I locate Blackboard?
You can find your Blackboard course by following the steps:
1) Log into your Student Portal at my.uic.edu
2) Click on for the UIC Blackboard icon on the “Welcome” tab.
Where can I find my Orientation Schedule?
Your orientation schedule will be available to you in your Blackboard Orientation course.
When the schedule is ready, it will be posted under “Orientation Schedule”.
My Orientation Blackboard course says I have to take iTEP, but I already took this for Admissions. Do I need to take this again?
Yes! If you are in the Extended or Academic Accelerator programs, you will take iTEP as part of your placement testing. Please consult your Blackboard Course for more information on when you will receive this testing information and how to take it.
Where do I locate my UIC placement testing?
The second part of your experience with placement testing is completing all the placement tests found in your Student Portal at my.uic.edu. Depending on your program and academic major, placement tests found in your Student Portal can range from 1-5 tests. These tests are available to you now! Please consult your Blackboard Orientation course on the types of tests for more information.
Welcome to UIC Global! We are getting very excited to welcome you to campus! To help assist your transition to campus, we are providing you steps to complete before you arrive to campus!
- Activating your Student Portal
- Complete your placement testing
- Submit your flight arrival details
- Complete your Blackboard Orientation Course
- Orientation Information and Registration
What is a Student Portal?
At UIC, your Student Portal is the main landing page you will use to help navigate UIC. Before you arrive at UIC, you can use your student portal to access your placement tests and your UIC Global Orientation Blackboard Page.
During your UIC Global Orientation Week, you will learn how to navigate the other tools that are available on your student portal like viewing your registration information, connecting with resources on campus, and viewing your final grades.
Activating your Student Portal will allow UIC Global to enroll you in your Orientation Blackboard course to provide you important information on getting started on campus. The first step in getting you started to assist with an easy transition to campus is activating your Student Portal. You will need to have your UIN and Token.
What is a UIN?
UIN stands for “University Identification Number” and is unique to you and your account. You will use this number frequently through your time at UIC. A good practice is to include your UIN in your UIC email signature as you will be asked for this regularly.
What is a Token?
The Token Number is a number you will only use one time to create your account. You do not have to remember this number.
When you receive your UIN and Token through your personal email address, there will be link to activate your NetID and create your password. Make sure you remember your NetID and password!
If you ever forget your password, this process will allow you to set up recovery options.
Once you have activated your NetID, you will be eligible to get enrolled in a Pre-Arrival Orientation course through the learning system Blackboard. After activating your NetID, you will receive a notification of when you have been enrolled. This can take between 3-5 business days. Completing all the steps found in the Blackboard course will assistance you with your transition to start your academic program smoothly.
What if I didn’t receive a UIN and Token?
You will only receive a UIN and Token after completing all the admissions steps are accepted to the university. If you have completed all admissions steps, please complete this Help Ticket
Depending on your program and major, you may have several tests to complete in order to determine the correct course placement at UIC. Please follow the steps below to access and complete all necessary placement exams prior to arrival:
Step 1: Activate Your UIC Student Portal
Step 2: Access placement exams in your UIC Student Portal.
Step 3: Complete all placement exams in your UIC Student Portal.
Pre-Arrival Exams
*Note: Academic Accelerator and International Direct students will only be required to take Chemistry and Physics tests if their major requires these courses for their degree.
Please visit our Testing FAQs page and your Orientation Blackboard Course for more information on completing your placement exams.
Important Disclaimers:
- Accelerator Students: Your placement in English composition or English language classes will depend upon the results of the writing tests and the iTEP exam. You may also be required to take additional English language courses as part of a UIC Global accelerator program or enroll in full-time English language study at UIC.
These exams are not a pass or fail, but helps determine your skill level with language to make the best decisions for your degree path.
All students are required to submit arrival details before they depart for UIC.
Please provide your arrival details by July 23rd for your Fall 2023 semester start.
We need to know when you are arriving so we can confirm your housing and enrollment, it also helps the campus team prepare for your arrival and make your big day go as smoothly as possible.
Also, we offer free rides from O’Hare International Airport (ORD) to campus on the scheduled arrival day of August 10th.
If you are arriving early, there is information in your Blackboard Orientation course on Chicago transportation services and hotels before your official Orientation program begins on August 10th.
We are excited to have you start with UIC Global very soon!
Please note the scheduled Arrival Day for Fall 2023 semester below. Your Orientation experience will also begin during this time.
Your Orientation schedule will be posted in your Blackboard Orientation course when it is available.
If you are experiencing any error when trying to activate your Student Portal, please fill out a help ticket in our Report an IT Program feature.
To help resolve your issue in a timely manner, please be ready to:
- Provide a detailed description of the issue.
- Provide a screenshot to upload to the ticket – this will help IT determine the issue.
- Your email address
Once you submit your help ticket, please monitor your email address for a response. Tickets are usually resolved between 2-3 business days.
Academics
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I have to take General Education courses?
That is a very common question from all students that are in our UIC Global program. In the United States, it is an expectation for all students to receive a holistic education. What does this mean? It means that students are expected to take classes outside of their major to learn about other topics that are beneficial for students to help them think critically and provide a well-rounded education. ! It also fulfils your General Education Requirements that are required for every degree at UIC
What is a GPA?
GPA stands for “Grade Point Average”.
At UIC and colleges throughout the U.S, grades for a class will be assigned using letters like A, B, C, D or F. So, your GPA is calculated by adding the number of points you’ve earned from your classes and dividing it by the number of total points of all your classes. To make it a bit simpler, a 4.0 is getting all A’s, a 3.0 is getting all B’s and so forth.
I have a hold on my account, what should I do?
Having a hold on an account isn’t the worst thing, but it’s something that should be taken care of sooner rather than later. Having a hold on an account can do quite a few things to you as a student, like not being able to register for next semesters classes. The first step to take is to reach out to a UIC Global staff member so that they can clarify why you have a hold. Afterwards, they will be able to guide you on how to get this hold removed in a timely manner.
https://catalog.uic.edu/ucat/academic-calendar/
As a university student, you will need to always know when your classes begin and end. Please consult the academic calendar as it will show the future start and end dates for future semesters so you can make your arrangements accordingly.
Based on the length of your program, your placement tests help determine your final program placement. At the end of your program, you will be evaluated to see if you have met with your program requirements for UIC.
You will learn more about your program requirements in your Blackboard Orientation courses and during Orientation. UIC Global is here every step of the way to help assist you in your academic journey.
As part of your degree path, you are required to complete general education requirements.
There is a wide range of tutoring support available at UIC to help you be successful in all classes! All UIC students frequently use these resources to assist in subjects like academic writing, math, science, and more!
You will be taking academic writing courses in your first year, so it is important to make sure use the UIC Writing Center! You can find how to schedule an appointment here
Once you begin your program, you will have access to your weekly Drop In Advising schedule showing all available advising times and staff members who can help answer questions, provide support or guide you through your program. We offer Drop In advising times Monday – Saturday every week of the semester. Staff and Peer advisors also happy to schedule a one-on-one advising appointment. Throughout your program, you’ll be contacted by advisors to check in on your program, success and support you through your first year.
Student Health
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find the latest updates and recourses for international students?
For information regarding coronavirus/COVID-19 and the UIC international community, including immigration status maintenance, travel guidance, support resources and frequently asked questions (FAQs), visit the Office of International Services’ coronavirus/COVID-19 update page.
Is UIC requiring vaccination?
As of June 21, 2021, UIC is requiring students who plan to be on campus to be fully vaccinated by the beginning of the 2021 fall semester. For employees, there is currently no vaccine requirement.UIC will accept all vaccines currently authorized for emergency use by either the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or the World Health Organization (WHO).
Given the current student vaccination requirement at UIC, is it advisable to take the vaccine in my home country or can I take it upon arriving at the university?
As of June 21, 2021, UIC is requiring students who plan to be on campus to be fully vaccinated by the beginning of the 2021 fall semester. For employees, there is currently no vaccine requirement. UIC will accept all vaccines currently authorized for emergency use by either the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or the World Health Organization (WHO). If you can complete a vaccine series for one of these approved vaccines, it is advisable to take the vaccine in your home country. Please see below if you only have time to complete one dose of a two-dose series. If none of these approved vaccines are available to you in your home country, you will be able to receive an accepted vaccine upon arrival to Chicago.
What happens in case I’m able to take only one dose of a vaccine not available in the United States at my home country?
If there is high level of transmission in your home country and you have access to one of the vaccines currently authorized for emergency use by either the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or the World Health Organization (WHO), it is recommended that you get vaccinated even if you cannot complete a series. With a two-dose series COVID-19 vaccine there is some protection with the first dose.
https://www.fda.gov/emergency-preparedness-and-response/coronavirus-disease-2019-covid-19/covid-19-vaccines
Can I come to the USA and take the second dose? Or will I be required to vaccinate again? Also, are there any health concerns regarding mixing vaccine types?
If you do choose to get one dose of a vaccine not available in the USA prior to departure and have to get another type of vaccine here, please know that there is good evidence that mixing vaccine types is safe. Some evidence regarding mixing the Pfizer/BioNTech and AstraZeneca vaccines were more likely to report side effects than those who received two doses of either vaccine, but all reported adverse reactions were short-lived, and there were no serious safety concerns or hospitalizations.
If the first dose you get in your home country is not currently authorized for emergency use by either the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or the World Health Organization (WHO), the CDC recommends you receive the full series of an FDA-approved vaccine. You can do so once you arrive in Chicago, as long as 28 days have passed since your last dose of a non-WHO/non-FDA approved vaccine.
What happens if I take both doses of a vaccine not approved in the USA?
If the vaccine you take is not currently authorized for emergency use by either the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or the World Health Organization, the CDC recommends you receive the full series of an FDA-approved vaccine. You can do so once you arrive in Chicago, as long as 28 have passed since your last dose of a non-WHO/non-FDA approved vaccine.
UIC will continue to monitor data on the effectiveness of different global vaccines against currently circulating COVID-19 strains in the US. If these strains are demonstrated to evade the protection afforded by the vaccines that you received in your home country, you may be subsequently advised to receive booster doses or other approved US vaccines that have greater efficacy against emerging vaccine-resistant strains.
Do I need to quarantine or are there any restrictions in place when I reach the USA/UIC (without taking the vaccine); either at the port of entry or at UIC?
What proof of vaccination will I be required to bring in case I get vaccinated in my home country?
Student COVID-19 vaccination records must be provided prior to the beginning of the fall semester.
Vaccination records may vary by country. Further information with instructions on how to provide authorization for disclosure of vaccination records or to upload a copy of the Vaccination Record Card will be communicated soon.
What if I cannot access an approved vaccine in my home country?
If none of the approved vaccines are available to you in your home country, you will be able to receive an accepted vaccine upon arrival to Chicago.
All students are required to receive the COVID Vaccine and Booster.
The Illinois Department of Public Health requires that all incoming students present documented proof of immunity (pdf) against the following diseases:
- Measles (Rubeola) – two (2) doses at least 28 days apart
- Rubella (German Measles) – two (2) doses at least 28 days apart
- Mumps – two (2) doses at least 28 days apart
- TD (Tetanus and Diphtheria) – at least one (1) dose within past 10 years
- Meningitis – Required for students under the age of 22 – Must be given on or after 16th birthday
- COVID Vaccine and Booster (see below for additional details)
How to comply
- Visit the Med+Proctor website directly or via my.UIC.edu.
- Click “Register” and use your UIC email address to create either a standard Med+Proctor account or a Med+Proctor Pro account.
- With a standard Med+Proctor account (free), you do not retain access to your uploaded immunization documentation.
- With a Med+Proctor Pro account ($10), you receive lifetime access to your uploaded immunization documentation.
- Complete required personal information, download the immunization certificate, and follow the directions provided.
- Upload a copy of your immunization forms to your Med+Proctor account. Make sure your forms are complete and legible. If you are uploading your own copy of your immunizations instead of the forms provided by Med+Proctor, please be sure it has your medical provider’s office stamp and signature, along with your UIN. Once the immunization forms are received, you will receive an email confirmation.
- If more detailed instructions are required, consult the step-by-step guide, Med+Proctor’s Getting Started document, FAQ page or UIC Flyer.
All immunization documentation must be in English. Med+Proctor is unable to translate documents. If your documents require translation, please use a professional translation service.
Student Health
There are several location on campus that accommodate students when they are sick. https://studenthealth.uic.edu/family-medicine/
In their first year, students will have UIC Global Cigna insurance via Wellfleet. This insurance can be used on campus. Students will receive guidance on creating their insurance accounts during their orientation experience.
Immigration
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I complete Check-in?
To complete check-in, you will need to visit here.
What if I do not complete Check-in?
It is very important to check-in once you arrive in the U.S. as the check-in process can take 3-5 days to review.
Failure to check-in will prevent you from registering for the semester and will result in termination of your nonimmigrant status.
Where do I find my I-94?
Air and Sea travelers will be issued I-94s during the admission process at the port of entry. After your arrival, you will also be able to access this here.
I arrived in the US, but I cannot find my I-94 on the website. What should I do?
In some cases, a student may not be able to find their I-94. It is important to try these trouble-shooting tips:
- Make sure you match your full name as it is seen on your passport. Partial name entries will not produce a matching I-94 record.
- Try switching your “Last Name” and “First Name”. It’s possible they switched your name at the port of entry.
Still can’t find your I-94?
Email the Office of International Services immediately at OIS@uic.edu with the following information:
- Your full name as seen on your passport.
- Your UIN.
- Inform them you are attempting to complete your university immigration check-in and cannot retrieve the I-94.
- Wait 3-5 days for a response from OIS on next steps.
Upon immediate entry into the United States, you will need to check in with university’s Office of International Services.
You will not be able to register for courses unless the university check-in is complete.
Fortunately, you can complete the check-in virtually!
For F-1 status students, please have the following documents ready in digital images of each one: (.pdf, .jpeg, .img and .png are all acceptable formats)
- Signed I-20 or DS-2019 for study at UIC (F-1 or J-1 status only.)
- Passport biographic and expiry page
- Passport Visa Stamp or Form I-797 for change of status
- I-94 Record
- I-901 SEVIS Fee Receipt
Your I-94 record will be available on the website after you physically arrive to the U.S.
For more information on completing the check-in, please visit this website.
As an international student, you will become familiar with the Office of International Services at UIC throughout the duration of your study. It is important to always note your program start and program end dates on your I-20.
Questions related to your status, I-20, or anything related to your immigration will be through this office. You can click here to learn more about the Office of International Services.
Student Universe
Discounted Flights
Use Student Universe for discounted international flights as well as flights within the US on trips with your friends!! Get the best deals when you need them and benefit from 24-hour risk-free cancellation.
Arrival Documents by Region
Failure to submit officially to the university listed below will prevent registration.
Translations must come from recognized bodies such as a school, embassy, overseas EducationUSA Advising Centers, or other certified translation agencies. Translations alone will not be accepted.
Students who have taken post-secondary credits must also submit the transcripts for all credits taken. If the school requires stamped and sealed envelopes for all documents, they will be required for post-secondary transcripts as well.
Undergraduate student guidance
Two methods to officially submit your transcripts
Official electronic documents are accepted through the following services: The Common Application, Parchment, Naviance, Escrip-Safe, and The National Student Clearinghouse. The electronic delivery method will be determined by your sending institution’s agreements with one of these third-party servicers. As is the case with all three servicers, you should select The University of Illinois at Chicago as the recipient. No email address should be provided. We have database accounts with each of these providers and will receive access to the transcripts through our database.
Your school can also send an electronical to UG-intl@uic.edu. The email must be from the official school email account.
Official paper documents can be mailed the Office of Admissions in the originally sealed envelope. Official documents that have been opened and/or resealed or repackaged will not be accepted as official.
Office of Undergraduate Admissions, MC 018
University of Illinois at Chicago
Suite 1100 Student Services Building
1200 West Harrison Street
Chicago, Illinois 60607-7161
Graduate student guidance
All documents must be issued in the language of instruction and accompanied by a certified translation if the language of instruction is not English.
Translations must come from recognized bodies such as a school, embassy, overseas EducationUSA Advising Centers, or other certified translation agencies. Translations alone will not be accepted.
Students who have taken post-secondary credits must also submit the transcripts for all credits taken. If the school requires stamped and sealed envelopes for all documents, they will be required for post-secondary transcripts as well.
Any submission to UIC Admissions will NOT be returned to the student.
The official method to offically submit your transcripts
Official paper documents can be mailed the Office of Admissions in the originally sealed envelope. Official documents that have been opened and/or resealed or repackaged will not be accepted as official.
Office of Admissions, MC 018
University of Illinois at Chicago
Suite 1100 Student Services Building
1200 West Harrison Street
Chicago, Illinois 60607-7161
Job & Career Services
Frequently Asked Questions
How many hours can I work on-campus?
International students can only work upto 20 hours per week during the semester and 40 hours per week during official school breaks only.
Can I work on multiple positions on-campus?
Yes, you can but it should sum up to no more than 20 hours a week.
Can I get a job in my freshman/first year?
Absolutely, keep applying and editing your resume.
Check with OIS for eligibility
Virtual Internships + Professional Certificates
Master the in-demand skills global employers seek that you won’t learn in the classroom. Boost your portfolio — and save money — with certifications and projects that demonstrate your new qualifications and make you a competitive candidate in today’s job market.
Enroll today for an incredible value: Many bootcamps and courses can range up to $14,000 per course* — but with UIC Global you can upskill in as many available courses as you like during your studies, all included in your enrollment fee!
Professional Certificates
Designed for computer science, engineering, and business students, each certificate program was inspired by elite university preparatory programs tailored for growing careers. Student internship projects have included software development, website design, virtual reality, digital content creation, project management, AI, and more at leading employers.
Certification 1 : Design Thinking – develop effective approaches to problem-solving
Designed for business/MBA, computer science, data science, engineering, information systems, and marketing majors
Certification 2 : Social Entrepreneurship** – foster widespread positive change
Designed for business/MBA, engineering, entrepreneurship, finance, and marketing majors
Certification 3 : Global Citizenship** – thrive in diverse environments
Designed for business/MBA, computer science, engineering, finance, and international business majors
Completed internships include
Credentials + certification prep offered include
- Agile
- Scrum
- PMP
- Java, Python, PHP, C++ , Ruby
- AWS, Google Cloud, Microsoft Azure
- DP-203 Microsoft Exam dp-203
- Site Reliability Engineering
- Security Operations
- Reverse, Social, Chaos and Network Engineering
- Consulting
- Project Management
- Marketing
- Software Developer
- UX Designer
- Mobile App Developer
- Information Security Analyst
- Systems Architect
- Video Game Developer
- AI Engineer
- Engineering Manager
- Product Engineer
- Data Engineering
- Mechanical Engineer
- Civil Engineer
*Stanford Executive Education Design Thinking Bootcamp
**Endorsed by the University of Peace – UN Charter
Scholarships & Finances
Frequently Asked Questions
Once I progress from UIC Global, were can I find my bill for the next semester?
- Select Login from my.uic.edu portal.
- Select “Student Self Service Login Student Account Billing”.
https://paymybill.uillinois.edu/Access
Once I progress, can I make a payment from an international account?
Yes, UIC accepts Flywire: https://paymybill.uillinois.edu/payments/InternationalPayments
Once I progress, What are the payment due dates?
Payment is due on the 28th of each month. Tuition and fee charges for fall and spring terms are billed in September and February respectively. Summer term charges are billed in June and/or July depending on enrollment. Please see below for more details or visit University Bursar Announcements.
What if I am a sponsored student? Do I need to do anything once I progress?
To begin the Sponsor Billing process, the student is required to submit a Sponsor Payment Plan (SSP) Application. The SSP Application is required in order to participate in the Sponsor Billing. It also serves as a FERPA release for the University, as well as verification that the student understands the responsibilities of participating in Sponsor Billing.
I don’t see how much next semester will cost, once I progress, can I make a calculation?
Yes! This is a great website to help you calculate next semester’s costs: https://admissions.uic.edu/undergraduate/tuition-financial-aid
How do I pay my tuition and fees?
Students need to pay all tuition and fees in a timely manner to avoid late fees, potential loss of scholarships, and delays in registering for classes. Click here for instructions: global.uic.edu/prepare-for-your-program/before-you-arrive/#Payment.
If you are a student who has received a scholarship from UIC Global for your first year, this is not something that Global can extend. That being said, you should research the opportunities here.
This link not only contains internal UIC scholarships, but external scholarships as well The UIC Office of External Fellowships (OEF) assists current UIC undergraduate and professional school students in searching and applying for nationally competitive scholarships, fellowships, and external scholarship awards. They provide information about available awards, advice on application preparation, and assistance throughout the scholarship application process. OEF services are available to current UIC undergraduate and professional students only.
If you have received a 4 year scholarship from UIC Global, there are a few steps that you need to complete every semester in order to maintain the scholarships:
- The UIC Global Diversity scholarship is a merit based award for UIC Global students. The scholarship may be awarded for up to four years of study for students meeting all requirements necessary to maintain the scholarship.
- Scholarships are awarded for the Fall and Spring semesters but not for the Summer terms (8 fall or spring semesters or 4 years).
- Please note that this scholarship amount will be a credit on the tuition that you will be paying for the Spring and Fall semester. If you complete your program early, you will not receive a payment for the semesters that you have not attended.
- Students must maintain a cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.0 from coursework taken at UIC only, or above in order to meet the requirements. All students will be reviewed annually to determine if the current GPA standing meets the requirements.
- Students may be granted a one semester grace period for the scholarship if the Institutional Level GPA is below 3.0 but is 2.5 or above. This is not guaranteed. If a grace period is granted, you will have one academic semester to raise your GPA to 3.0 in order to meet the terms of probation and continue to receive the scholarship.
- If after the grace period, a student fails to restore their GPA to a 3.0 or higher, they will forfeit their UIC Global Scholarship.
- Students must maintain full-time status (12+ hours) in order to remain in immigration status and receive the Diversity Scholarship.
- If you do not enroll in consecutive Fall or Spring semesters for any reason you will waive any missed semesters from the total remaining eligible semesters of Scholarship.
- The only exception to full-time enrollment will be for students in their final semester if approved by the Office of International Services (OIS).
ATM:
Using an ATM card is a common way to withdraw money in the U.S. ATM machines are very common. ATM stands for Automatic Teller Machine, and is a machine that allows you to withdraw cash from your bank account, without having to be at your bank. Be aware that most banks will charge a fee if you use ATMs of another bank on their machine. This can add up quickly – so be careful!
Credit Card:
It is also common for people to pay for items by credit card. Visa, MasterCard and American Express cards are usually accepted in most grocery stores, retail shops and restaurants.
Exchanging Currency:
Most money can be exchanged at major banks and at most Currency Exchange Stores. In addition to exchanging currency, this store provides other services, such as sending money through Western Union, and providing CTA passes for purchase.
The following information may be helpful to those unfamiliar with United States currency: One dollar ($1.00) equals “100” cents. Paper money or “bills”, come in denominations of $1, $5, $10, $20, $50, and $100. Coins are in denominations as follows:
To avoid delays and cash-flow problems, you may want to open a bank account with a U.S. bank before you arrive.
Banking
The two banks which are accustomed to working with Internationals and that you can find on-campus are Credit Union 1 and PNC Bank. There are also many banks around Chicago including Citibank, Chase Bank, and Bank of America, to name a few.
Following are UIC’s on-campus resources:
Credit Union 1
Complete banking services are offered by Credit Union 1, which has three convenient locations on campus. Credit Union 1 members can get free checking accounts and saving accounts with a minimum balance of $5, ATM/Debit cards, money orders, and traveler’s checks. Clients must show a photo identification (I.D.) to qualify for opening an account.
PNC Bank
PNC Bank is the banking partner of UIC. PNC Bank offers the Student Checking Account with online banking, bill pay, and mobile banking. PNC also offers international wire transfers. To open a PNC Bank account, visit the nearest branch with your valid passport and UIC ID card.
Make sure that you are always referencing the enrollment contract: which will give you up to date information regarding the terms and conditions of your program.
Embarking on your educational journey in the United States shouldn’t come with the roadblock of finding a co-signer for financial aid. Shorelight recognizes this hurdle and has proactively partnered with premier financing organizations such as Fly Finance, MPower Financing, and Prodigy Finance. This strategic collaboration eliminates the traditional barriers international students face, such as the need for a co-signer, collateral, or an established US credit history, streamlining your path to securing educational funding.
Find the right loan organization for you on Shorelight.com.
Progression
College of Engineering
2.75 Cumulative GPA AND successful completion of English 160
College of Business
2.5 Cumulative GPA AND successful completion of English 160
College of Architecture, Design and the Arts
2.5 Cumulative GPA and successful completion of English 160 (Theater, Music, Acting require audition)
All other colleges
2.5 Cumulative GPA and successful completion of English 160
Parking and Transport
Clubs & Organizations
Center for Academic Success
A website with access to virtual tutors, career advisors, and online resources to help you throughout your university studies
Do you need help adjusting to your new life or just have a question about the courses you are enrolled in? Maybe you need to improve your academic skills or study habits or need help preparing for an exam or presentation? Perhaps you are you confused about CPT/OPT options or are confused about your major or career field?
Shorelight’s Center for Academic Success (CAS) has many free resources for you! For example, you can use the Live Chat button to reach one of our highly-trained support staff, or you can schedule a Zoom session with one of our friendly Student Success Coaches, Professional Tutors, or Career Services staff—all of whom are experts at helping international students with anything from pre-arrival support and campus life to academic subject areas and career guidance.
Maybe you would also enjoy completing a short eLearning course at your own pace? Those are available, too, on topics ranging from Citation Basics to Preparing for an Interview—and everything in between! If you’re short on time, try one of our live or recorded academic, social, or career skills webinars.
Give your learning journey the support it needs by activating your free CAS account today!
How to register:
- Click here or scan the QR code to find our Home page.
- Click the orange “Sign up now” button to request access.
- On the signup form, type your given name and family name as you are registered at your university.
- Type any email address that your university has on file for you (it can be a personal or university email).
- Create a password with at least one special character and 6-50 characters total.
- Type your password again. Write it down or save it in your browser.
- Type the full name of your university, not the abbreviation. Your status must be checked.
- Check the first box to accept the Terms & Conditions (feel free to read those first).
- Check the last box if you wish to receive emails from us.
- Click the large orange button that says, “Start your learning journey.”
After you register:
- After self-registering, you’ll receive an email within two business days to let you know that your account is approved (or if not, how to fix the problem). Just follow the link to log in!
- Check your spam folder if you don’t see our email within two days—or just return to the Home page linked above to try logging in with your email and password. If you encounter any trouble, just use the Live Chat button at the bottom of our Home page.
If you were pre-registered:
- Some students may be admin-registered at the request of their university to save you the trouble of signing up.
- If you get an email from Shorelight’s Center for Academic Success saying that your account has been created, just follow the link to complete your registration. You only need to create your password and check the boxes (Steps 5-10 above).
- If you are told that you were admin-registered, but you can’t find our welcome email, just go to our Home page, click “Sign up now” and complete Steps 3-10. If you can’t guess the right email or how your name was entered, use our LiveChat to get help.
Student Health Insurance
Health insurance through UIC Global’s student health insurance plan (provided by Wellfleet) auto-renews every year.
If you are a student who has insurance through UIC Global’s student health insurance plan and you wish to renew, then no action is required. (In addition to enrollment in your current policy, you will also receive the added benefits of vision and dental insurance. The details of your plan can be found here: https://www.universityhealthplans.com/UIC)
In order to stay with your current policy, you will need to waive your Campus Care insurance by following the steps below. Should you not follow these steps, you will be charged for both insurance plans (Wellfleet and Campus Care).
- Sign in using your net ID and password
- Click “Request a waiver for (Semester/Year)”
- Enter your active insurance information
- Check box that states “I have read the CampusCare waiver shown above”
- Click “Submit”
- Check UIC email for tracking number. If you do not receive a tracking number, then your waiver was not successfully submitted
If you do not want to waive your Campus Care insurance, this requires opting out of UIC Global insurance and purchasing Campus Care directly. Please update the UIC Global team as soon as possible by using this form.
Should you have any insurance coverage questions, please contact studentservices@uicglobal.org and an advisor will assist you.