msu travel website

Office of Admissions

• Travel and accommodations

Enjoy your stay in Greater Lansing! 

Michigan State University is located in East Lansing, just minutes away from Michigan’s capital city, Lansing, and in close proximity to Chicago, Detroit, Toronto and the beaches of Lake Michigan.

Area lodging 

Visitors to campus can select from a variety of local hotels. The Kellogg Hotel and Conference Center  is located on campus. Many other hotels are located in the East Lansing and Lansing area. A list of recommended hotels and inns (including rates) is provided by the MSU Office of the Controller.

Airports and public transportation 

The MSU campus is a 15-minute drive from Capital Regional International Airport . Taxicab service costs approximately $15.  It is a 75-minute drive from Detroit Metro Airport . The Michigan Flyer Airport Shuttle offers bus transportation to East Lansing for approximately $30. Buses run several times a day, and travel takes approximately two hours.  The Capital Area Multimodal Gateway on campus houses the Amtrak Blue Water train stop as well as Greyhound  and  Indian Trails  bus services: .  Local CATA bus routes stop at the station, and the facility also offers taxicab and bike-sharing services.

Exploring East Lansing 

East Lansing is a vibrant, classic college town. Tree-lined streets dotted with patio eateries, cafes, live music venues, shops and galleries complement the energy of campus. Visit the Greater Lansing Convention and Visitors Bureau for details on local flavor and dining options.

Campus events 

Want to know what’s happening on campus during your visit? The MSU events calendar provides a daily list of campus events. Explore everything from art exhibitions to varsity sports, and more!

• Prospective first-year events
• Admitted first-year events
• Transfer student events
• Academic department visits
• Virtual experiences
• Self-guided campus tours
• Maps and directions

Welcome to the Travel Clinic

The Travel Clinic promotes safe and healthy travel by providing counseling to travelers about appropriate vaccines and preventive medication.

The Travel Clinic utilizes national and international travel expertise to provide current travel information and recommendations. The Clinic is a designated Yellow Fever vaccine site. The Clinic health care providers are certified by the The British Global and Travel Health Association .

For Students

The Travel Clinic supports our students' international educational experiences by promoting safe and healthy travel.

For Employees

The Travel Clinic supports faculty/staff's global research, educational programs and international partnerships by providing comprehensive travel consultations.

For the Community

The Travel Clinic welcomes all members of our mid-Michigan community to receive travel health and wellness services.

For Families

In order to better serve families traveling with young (under 12 years of age) children, the Travel Clinic offers family travel consultations.

CDC COVID-19 Travel Recommendations

COVID-19 Travel Recommendations by Destination

Current Travel Alerts

Travel notices are designed to inform travelers and clinicians about current health issues related to specific destinations.

Appointment info

The Travel Clinic provides information, immunizations, medications, and consultation for adult and child travelers.

Travelers are seen by appointment only.  To schedule an appointment, please call (517) 353-3161.

Family Travel Consultations (children under 12 years of age)

Family consultation offer families with young children a comprehensive and cost effective way to receive travel counseling, as well as appropriate vaccinations and preventative medications.

Maps and Parking

Maps and Parking for the Travel Clinic

Costs for travel consultations and immunizations

• Call us: (517) 353-8933
• Contact Information
• Privacy Policy
• Site Accessibility
• Call MSU: (517) 355-1855
• Visit: msu.edu
• MSU is an affirmative-action, equal-opportunity employer.
• Notice of Nondiscrimination
• Spartans Will.
• © Michigan State University

Travel at State – Office of the Controller

Travel Card

Table of Contents

Proper travel card use, roles and responsibilities, card reconciliation, eligibility and online application, requesting changes to travel card accounts, card renewals, cancellations and suspensions, online card account management (global card access website).

• Card Usage Chart

Quick Contacts

Cardholders.

• Cardholders are responsible for the proper use of the card and reconciliation of expenses in Concur
• Cardholders are responsible for retaining and submitting appropriate receipts to their expense reports
• Cardholders are expected to abide by all University business travel, group travel, and expenditure policies and procedures (refer to the MSU Manual of Business Procedures)
• The Cardholder’s Dean, Director, Chair or other authorized departmental approver/manager is required to approve the cardholder’s account request before it is processed with the bank
• Cardholders and Fiscal Officers are responsible for reviewing all card transactions when submitted on an Expense Report.
• Travel Card transactions will appear in your Available Expenses Quick Task in Concur. From there, they must be assigned to an appropriate Expense Report
• All expenses from the same trip should be combined and submitted on a single Report
• Purchases made on a Travel Card must be submitted on an Expense Report in Concur within 90 days from the trip end date
• For more information on how to assign credit card transactions to an Expense Report, please visit the Concur training guide
• Card Delivery: Once the application is approved and the required online training is completed, applicant will receive an email requesting their preferred delivery address for the physical card. The back of the card should be signed upon receipt.
• Normal card processing time is 14 business days after approvals are obtained and training/application are completed.
• Card Validity Period: Travel Cards are valid through the expiration date printed on the card.

Apply for a Travel Card

Examples of changes.

• Card status change – close, suspend, activate
• Increase weekly credit limit
• Cardholder no longer with MSU

Lost/Stolen cards

• If the MSU Travel Card is lost or stolen, please notify Bank of America and the Accounting Office immediately
• If lost or stolen outside of the United States, call Bank of America collect at 011-1-636-722-7111
• The credit card will be automatically suspended, and a replacement card sent to the Accounting Office (usually within one week)
• The Accounting Office will notify the Cardholder when the new card is received
• If the card is stolen on campus property, Cardholders must also contact the MSU Police Department at (517) 355-2221
• Cardholders are responsible for all purchases up to the point of cancellation and should still reconcile charges, attach receipts, and submit expense reports
• The Travel Card had no transaction activity for 18 consecutive months.
• The university has found improper use of the Travel Card.
• Travel Card charges have not been reported in an expense report within the Expense Requests system in a timely manner, no later than 90 days after the completion of travel.

International Studies & Programs

Office for Global Health, Safety and Security

MSU Global Travel Registry

All faculty, staff, and students traveling on MSU sponsored international travel  must, before their departure, register their travel in the MSU Global Travel Registry . Registration is an essential tool in supporting the health and safety of MSU travelers abroad.

Click here to enter an MSU-sponsored international trip into

the MSU Global Travel Registry

Registration in the MSU Global Travel Registry activates MSU-provided international health insurance, evacuation and repatriation insurance, facilitates the university's emergency support services, and provides you with important pre-departure information.

Access to the MSU Global Travel Registry

Anyone with an MSU NetID may access the MSU Global Travel Registry. Travelers may register their itineraries or may have a fellow traveler or administrative support person register travel on their behalf. All travelers are encouraged to log in to the MSU Global Travel Registry to update their personal profile.

Travel Registration

MSU faculty, staff, and students traveling on MSU sponsored international travel (not related to an Office for Education Abroad program) must register their trip with MSU. Review this guidance on what is considered MSU sponsored international travel .

Education Abroad participants, including program directors and assistants, are already registered in the Office for Education Abroad system and do not need to register that travel in the registry. 

MSU units or departments registering international travelers should use the information provided on the Pre-Trip Authorization Form . Once the international trip is successfully registered, the traveler(s) and travel arranger (if applicable) will receive a confirmation email.

Editing or Deleting a Trip

If you are listed as a Trip Editor, you can edit trip details up to the trip departure date. Beyond that date, please email globalsafety(at)msu.edu for assistance making edits.

If you need to delete a trip from the MSU Global Travel Registry, for example, because the trip was cancelled, please email globalsafety(at)msu.edu for assistance.

High Risk Destinations

MSU policy requires additional review of faculty, staff, administrator, and MSU-sponsored guest travel to high risk (elevated or extreme) destinations. Those planning travel to a high risk destination should submit their trip to the MSU Global Travel Registry as soon as possible to begin the review process. More information can be found on our webpage for faculty and staff travel to high risk destinations .

FAQs and Help

What is the msu global travel registry.

What is the purpose of the new MSU Global Travel Registry?

The new travel registry offers MSU travelers and travel arrangers a tool that is more secure, user-friendly, and faster, while enhancing the Office for Global Health, Safety, and Security’s ability to offer travel safety support to MSU travelers. The new system provides additional reporting functions for university leadership to aid in long-term planning, identification of new grant opportunities, and collaboration of international projects across units.

What is the URL for the new MSU Global Travel Registry?

The URL is https://travelregistry.msu.edu . Anyone with an MSU NetID can access the system.

Is the MSU Global Travel Registry available as an application for my phone?

Yes! Mobile apps are available for download:

Android:  https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=edu.msu.travelregistry

iOS:  https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/msu-global-travel-registry/id1258890436

What’s new about the MSU Global Travel Registry?

• Travelers may register their own MSU-affiliated travel or choose to have a unit administrator enter their travel
• Simplified log-in process (no need to request access to the system – anyone with an MSU NetID will have access)
• Faster registration - registering a trip takes, on average, 2-5 minutes
• Facilitates group travel – individuals no longer need to be registered separately
• Enhanced integration with Google Maps
• Creates a traveler profile to avoid re-entering the same information on subsequent trips
• Trip information is easy to edit prior to departure

What happened to the old Travelers Abroad Database?

The MSU Global Travel Registry replaced the Travelers Abroad Database.  All web links to the Travelers Abroad Database were redirected to the new MSU Global Travel Registry, effective April 19, 2017.

Who Should Register?

Who should register in the MSU Global Travel Registry?

All MSU faculty, staff, students, and approved guests (e.g. consultants) traveling on MSU sponsored international travel . Only individuals with an MSU NetID can register travel.

I am participating in an education abroad program for credit (formerly known as study abroad), do I need to register in the MSU Global Travel Registry?

No. The MSU Global Travel Registry is for non-credit, MSU sponsored international travel only.

Do I have to register domestic travel?

No.  Only international travel should be entered in the MSU Global Travel Registry.

If you would like to learn more about domestic insurance for a visitor coming to MSU from outside of the United States, please visit Risk Management and Insurance information for Inbound Travel .

Can I register my own travel in the MSU Global Travel Registry?

Yes, if you have an MSU NetID.

Can I still register travel on behalf of someone else?

Yes. If you are part of a team from MSU or an administrator or leader arranging a group trip, you can register others on that trip. Please follow the guidelines below.

Can we register group travel?

Yes. The MSU Global Travel Registry simplifies the process for registering group travel. One trip registration may be entered for travelers following the same itinerary and using the same accommodations. You will be asked to list the names of each traveler and the contact information for each traveler.

Should travelers coming to MSU from a country outside the United States be registered in the MSU Global Travel Registry?

No. The registry is only for outbound international travel.

Travel Information and Resources

Will I have access to the itineraries that I registered previously in the Travelers Abroad Database?

No. We think you will find that the new system makes registering so easy this won’t be a problem. Going forward, you will be able to copy any trips registered in the MSU Global Travel Registry if you need to register a trip similar to one previously undertaken.

Will I be able to search for and see travel itineraries for others in my department or unit?

You can search for and see any travel itineraries that you have created or for which you are a traveler or trip editor. Unit administrators will receive training and access to such data for their department or unit. ISP and Global Safety will administer cross-unit requests for data.

What if I am going to a high-risk destination? 

MSU does not support undergraduate or graduate student travel to high-risk destinations a waiver is reviewed by the Risk and Security Assessment Committee and approved by the Provost. If you register a trip to a high-risk destination that includes a student or students you will receive an email advising that travel cannot be registered until a waiver is approved. We recommend submitting a waiver request at least 4 weeks before departure and before the purchase of airline tickets. For more information on the waiver request process, please see the Office for Global Health, Safety, and Security website .

MSU requires additional review of faculty, staff, administrator, and MSU-sponsored guest travel to high-risk destinations . In cases where travel to an extreme risk destination is proposed, travelers must obtain a waiver. 

Will registration in the new system still automatically enroll travelers in international health and political unrest/natural disaster evacuation insurance coverage

Email notification from the registry will confirm travel registration and enrollment in International SOS . Note that students traveling to a high-risk destination  and faculty/staff traveling to an extreme risk destination must obtain a waiver before registration may be confirmed and coverage activated. 

Will Global Safety reach out to travelers while they are abroad?

It's possible. Global Safety is constantly monitoring events oversees and if Global Safety determines there is a need to communicate with travelers, we will reach out by email. Travelers should therefore keep an eye on their MSU email while traveling internationally.

Sometimes when a health, safety, or security incident occurs abroad, Global Safety will reach out to travelers to share travel safety information and to confirm travelers' well-being. Global Safety may not reach out every time there is an incident for a variety of reasons including if it is clear that an incident is unlikely to have affected travelers. If you are traveling abroad and looking for travel safety information, do not hesitate to reach out.

What if I have programmatic or administrative questions about using the MSU Global Travel Registry?

Please contact MSU’s Office for Global Health, Safety and Security at globalsafety(at)msu.edu or 517-884-2174.

Operational Guidelines

What type of information will I need to register a trip?

Traveler(s)’s location

Travel dates (for each leg of the trip, if applicable)

Travel Funding Source (select primary or largest source of funding)

• MSU-Funded : traveling on MSU business using MSU general and/or designated funds (preceded by a “G” or “D” in the MSU financial system)
• Externally-Funded : traveling on MSU business using funds from grants, contracts, cooperative agreements, endowments, or auxiliary sources (preceded by an “R” or “A” in the MSU financial system)
• Invitational Travel : traveling on MSU business using funds provided by a non-MSU third party outside the MSU financial system (e.g. consulting, sponsored travel, hosted travel)
• Self-Funded : traveling on MSU business using personal funds

Travel Reasons (select 1 or 2)

• For Credit Learning : (Not registered with the Office for Education Abroad) Includes graduate student thesis work, enrollment in institution or program outside the US for credit based learning that will be transferred back to MSU, internships that are credit based, including Mastercard Foundation Scholars.
• Not For Credit Learning : Includes service learning, engagement projects, internships that do not generate credit, but are affiliated with MSU via RSO’s, Alternative Spartan break, etc.
• Teaching : Faculty, Staff, Graduate students, or guest faculty who are travelling internationally for the purpose of teaching/supervision at another institution or international site. This includes faculty accompanying graduate students or student groups that are going for service learning or community engagement trips that are connected to MSU via RSOs and other affiliated MSU groups.
• Research and Creative Endeavors : Undertaken in connection with enrollment or employment at MSU. This includes international research teams employed by MSU on team research projects, based internationally.
• Conference or Meeting Attendance : Includes attendees, presenters, or organizers.
• Site Visit : International travel undertaken primarily to visit an actual or prospective MSU international location. Example: study abroad program proposal site visit.
• International Capacity Building : International travel undertaken in connection with international development priorities or projects in which MSU is a partner or stakeholder.
• Administrative : International travel undertaken to fulfill administrative duties related to employment at MSU.
• Recruitment : MSU recruitment of either faculty or students outside of the United States.
• Advancement: International travel undertaken to fulfill institutional advancement responsibilities relating to employment at MSU.
• Consulting : International travel undertaken in order to consult with international partners related to traveler’s work as an MSU employee.

In-Travel Contact Information (such as local cell phone number, Skype username etc.) for as many travelers as possible.

I am having technical issues with the MSU Global Travel Registry, what should I do?

If you are using Internet Explorer, try switching to a different browser such as Firefox, Chrome, or Safari. If you continue to experience issues, contact IT Services at 517-432-6200 or ithelp(at)msu.edu . 

I have feedback about the MSU Global Travel Registry. Who should I contact?

Please feel free to email feedback to globalsafety(at)msu.edu . We appreciate your feedback! If we need more information from you, we will be in touch. 

MSU Global Travel Registry Training Video

International SOS Emergency Assistance

1-215-942-8478

MSU systems access from sanctioned countries

Mental Health Resources

on campus and while abroad

Travel Security Update:

Russia Ukraine Conflict

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International Studies & Programs

Office for International Students and Scholars

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions for F-1 Students

The below Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) are intended for Continuing Students who are returning to the U.S. to continue their studies at MSU. Some of the information may apply to all students and scholars. New and Initial Students should visit the OISS website under Orientation. 

What is the definition of “continuing” students for I-20 purposes?

A “continuing” or “active” student is a student who established their F-1 status by entering the U.S. with an F-1 visa stamp, maintained their SEVIS record (I-20), and remained in valid immigration status. Examples of “continuing” students include:

• A student who entered the U.S. before fall 2021 with an F-1 visa stamp and maintained their status.
• A student who completed their program at MSU at one level of study and completed a level change while maintaining the same immigration record. For example, a bachelor student who completed their program and received admission to a master’s or Ph.D. level at MSU.
• A student who transferred their immigration record (I-20) from another institution to MSU. 

What are the enrollment requirements for continuing students?

Students with ‘active’ status must enroll full-time. Typical standard enrollment requirements are below-note that some programs may be exceptions: 

• Undergraduate: 12 credits 
• Masters: 9 credits 
• Masters with assistantship: 6 credits 
• Doctoral: 6 credits 
• Doctoral with assistantship: 3 credits
• A Doctoral student who is coded “all but dissertation”: 1 credit

How can I apply for Curricular Practical Training (CPT)?  

Students who have maintained ‘active’ status for at least one academic year may be eligible to apply for CPT.  Students should email the completed CPT application with the academic adviser’s signature and supplementary materials directly to their assigned OISS adviser . Standard processing times for OISS are 8-10 business days. Students must plan accordingly and should submit their requests in a timely fashion.

Can I apply for OPT from outside of the U.S.?

No, students must be in the United States to apply for OPT.

Do I need COVID testing to enter the U.S.? Am I required to quarantine?

Information about policies and protocols for all MSU travelers (domestic and international) coming to campus can be found at the Together We Will website.

Additional information can be found on the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website.

Do I need to be vaccinated to attend MSU for Fall 2021?

On July 30, 2021, MSU President Samuel L. Stanley Jr. announced updated COVID-19 requirements for the fall semester. Read the full statement on the Office of the President's website .

All MSU travelers - domestic and international - who are returning to campus are asked to follow MSU health protocols for inbound travelers . Information about measures on campus can be found on the  Together We Will Website.

Can OISS help me secure a visa appointment?  

Unfortunately, OISS is unable to assist in securing a visa appointment or an expedited request for a visa appointment. U.S. embassies and consulates are reopening around the world. Per the State Department, student visas are being prioritized. Students are encouraged to check their local embassy or consulate services' websites. Embassies and consulate services operate independently and their visa appointment availabilities depend on the public health situation in their locality.

Can MSU provide me with a letter for entry to the U.S. or for my visa appointment?

A standard letter of support can be found on the OISS website at Travel Letter for F-1 Students

What documents are required when traveling to the U.S.?

Students must have a valid I-20 (active students must have a valid travel signature), a valid (unexpired) F-1 visa, and a valid passport to enter the United States. Students are encouraged to have a printed copy of their schedule showing full-time enrollment and a printed copy of their I-901 SEVIS fee receipt . 

What is the five-month rule?

The five-month rule applies to students who have been out of status or away from classes for more than five months. Information about the five-month rule can be found on the Study in the States website .  The five-month rule has been waived due to COVID-19 and until further notice, this will not apply to students who have been out of the US for more than five months.

Will the five-month rule apply to me, since I might be away from MSU for more than five months?  

The government recently provided guidance regarding the five-month rule. It states, "Under current conditions, if an active F student leaves the United States to complete the spring semester online, their SEVIS record should remain in Active status and not be terminated." 

While these temporary measures related to COVID-19 are in place, students will be considered as maintaining status if they are maintaining full-time enrollment and making normal progress in their course of study. Because of this, the five-month rule addressed in the regulations will not apply to students who remain in Active status.

I have a valid F-1 visa stamp. Does that guarantee my entry into the United States?

An F-1 visa does not guarantee entry into the United States. An F-1 visa only allows a student to travel to a U.S. port-of-entry (generally an airport) and request permission to enter the United States. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officials at the port-of-entry have authority to permit or deny admission to the United States.

After you present your passport, visa, and Form I-20 (endorsed for travel) at the port-of-entry, a CBP official will make the decision to allow/deny you entry to the United States. Once you are allowed to enter the United States, the CBP official will provide an admission stamp and electronic Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record.

Can I enter the United States with a valid F-1 visa stamp even if I have a new SEVIS ID?  

There is inconsistent information about traveling with a new SEVIS ID and with a valid/unexpired F-1 visa stamp between the U.S. Department of State (the agency that issues visa stamps) and the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (the agency that interacts with international travelers at various airports) admits you to the U.S. 

The Department of State states that students who receive a new SEVIS ID should get a new visa stamp. The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has indicated that a valid visa stamp and a new SEVIS ID will not be a problem. Students have been allowed entry with a new SEVIS ID and a valid/unexpired visa stamp. 

OISS encourages all students in this situation to contact their local embassy or consulate service for clarification. 

Health and Wellness  

Where can I find information on health insurance and COVID-related questions?

OISS recently conducted a webinar on insurance and COVID restrictions. Visit the International Family Orientation Program website.

For information about the U.S. Health Care and Insurance visit OISS' Health and Wellness page . 

Additional information can be found on the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website . 

I'm having financial challenges. What financial support is available for international students and scholars?

Another problem the COVID-19 pandemic may create for international students and scholars is financial hardship. If you are struggling to pay rent, pay for your tuition, or are experiencing other financial distress, please make an appointment with an OISS advisor to discuss your options. OISS has limited financial assistance available to help international students and scholars facing financial challenges as a result of the pandemic. Please visit the Financial Assistance web page for other funding options across campus.

Do I have health insurance? Will it cover me for COVID-19 related tests and costs?

The MSU Student Health Insurance Plan coverage is not disrupted by the change to online classes. Questions about MSU's Student Health Insurance Plan can be directed to the HR Solutions Center , or by calling 517-353-4434. Currently, the COVID-19 test is 100% covered.

If you need help understanding health insurance policies, contact OISS Community Health Team at ihealth(at)msu.edu . If you have waived out of the MSU Student Health Insurance Plan, you must contact your respective health insurance company for health insurance coverage and details.

Is the Olin Health Center on campus still open?

Health Services are still available for students at Olin Health Center. The Health Center is operating a bit differently to protect students. The medical clinic is open at Olin Health Center for students who are ill. Students must schedule an appointment before they arrive. Students can call (517) 353-4660 or, if they are an established patient, they can make an online request for an appointment through the MyMSUHealth patient portal .

The laboratory at Olin Health Center is also open. The Pharmacy is closed temporarily during the COVID-19 situation. MSU Pharmacy services are available at the Clinical Center location. 

As Olin Health Center medical services are considered essential, Olin will remain open during the summer and into the fall. Current hours to call for an appointment are Monday through Friday, from 8:30 to 11:45 am and 12:45 to 4:50 pm.

Is there a way to access health care remotely?

For students with the MSU Student Health Insurance Plan, you and your dependents now have access to online medical and behavioral health services anywhere in the United States.

That means you can access the following health providers online:

• A doctor for minor illnesses such as a cold, flu, or sore throat when your primary care physician isn't available, or when staying home to seek care is recommended.
• A behavioral health clinician or psychiatrist to help work through different challenges such as anxiety, depression, and grief (Behavioral health visits are available by appointment only.)

Follow the instructions on the Blue Cross Online Visits worksheet to get started.

A few reminders specific to international students and scholars:

• You do not need to notify your primary care physician, MSU Student Health Services (Olin) when utilizing this program.
• The flier states that normal fees will be charged. Under the MSU plan, students will not be charged anything for the online visits during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• You will need the info on your Blue Care Network insurance card to access the service.

Do you need a card replacement or more info about your Blue Care Network health plan? Contact Sarah Allen with BCN at  SAllen2(at)bcbsm.com .

What should I do if I feel like I'm being treated unfairly, or experiencing harassment or discrimination?

If you are experiencing difficulties in relation to academics, contact the Office of the University Ombudsperson . The office phone number is (517) 353-8830. They are also available via email: ombud(at)msu.edu . You may also contact them through the online "problem report form."

If you have experienced discrimination or harassment on or off-campus, you can file a report with the Office of Institutional Equity (OIE).

Connect with OISS

Is OISS open? 

OISS is open and ready to serve all students and scholars through virtual advising. We are currently offering virtual advising by:

• Appointments : 20-minute Zoom video conference sessions at various times, Monday-Friday

Due to the high volume of advising needs, students are urged to plan and allow at least 10 business days for processing employment authorization requests.

OISS website offers great advising information. Students are encouraged to utilize the OISS website. The LiveChat function will also provide students quick answers. 

How can I get a travel signature?

Students are NOT required to get a travel signature to depart the U.S. Students should request a travel signature electronically. Do not mail OISS your I-20. Complete the travel signature request form below and OISS will issue an updated I-20 endorsed with a travel signature. The updated I-20 will be mailed out to you. 

• F-1 Student Travel Signature Request Form
• J-1 Student Travel Signature Request Form
• J-1 Scholar Travel Signature Request Form

Who is my OISS advisor?

Students on an F-1 visa are assigned to a specific OISS advisor. In order to evenly spread advising caseloads, we have assigned students to an advisor based on the student's birth month. Visit the OISS Advising Team  page to determine your OISS advisor.

For example: If you were born in December, you will click the November & December tab to determine your advisor.

How do I make an appointment with my OISS advisor?

To make an appointment with your OISS advisor, you must visit the OISS Advising Team page . We have assigned students to an advisor based on the student's birth month. Once you determine your OISS advisor, click on the drop-down tap and you will find a link to make an appointment with your OISS advisor. Students are encouraged to meet with their OISS advisor. 

What is MyOISS system?

MyOISS is an online portal that all international students will use during their time at MSU for immigration-related processes. For more information on MyOISS, you can view this video . 

What are the current processing times at OISS?

Standard processing times for OISS are 8-10 business days. Students must plan accordingly and should submit their requests in a timely fashion.

How do I submit immigration-related applications to OISS?

Many requests are located in the MyOISS system . For a list of forms  click here . 

Immigration FAQs for J1 Students

How does the transition to virtual instruction affect my j-1 immigration status.

Prior to COVID-19, J-1 students were limited on the number of online courses/credits in which they can enroll. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the U.S. Department of State is allowing J-1 students to maintain status while attending online courses. While this flexibility will not last forever, there is not currently an end date established.

J-1 students can therefore maintain valid visa status while attending online classes at MSU in the Spring 2020 and Summer 2020 semesters.

Am I allowed to return to my home country while Spring semester is in session?

Yes. President Stanley's email on March 11, 2020, states "During Spring semester, students doing purely remote work can return to their permanent place of residence and we strongly encourage this because there are advantages for social distancing." OISS will continue supporting you while outside the U.S. Your academic advisor and professors will also continue supporting you while outside of the U.S.

I don't know if I should depart or remain in the United States. What should I do?

OISS wants you to be comfortable and safe. The decision whether to return to your home country is a personal one and should be considered carefully. We encourage all students to discuss this decision with your support system. Whether you travel outside of the U.S. or stay in the U.S., OISS will be available to support and advise you.

If I leave the U.S., are there any restrictions on being able to return to campus for spring or the next academic semester?

If you departed the U.S. and want to return to continue your studies in spring, summer or fall 2020, we highly recommend you review current global public health advisories and keep track of any travel restrictions in place. That might mean restrictions put in place by your home country, countries where you are transiting and restrictions put in place by the United States government. Contact OISS to discuss any travel restrictions put in place by the U.S.

What are the COVID-19 travel restrictions? 

The March 14 Presidential Proclamations update suspends entry into the U.S. of all immigrants and Nonimmigrants who were physically present within the following countries during the 14-day period preceding their entry to the United States:

• People's Republic of China (excluding Hong Kong and Macau)
• 26 Schengen Area countries
• United Kingdom

How long will the COVID-19 travel restrictions continue?

Unfortunately, this is unknown. OISS will monitor the situation and will communicate with students as necessary.

Am I allowed to stay in the U.S. during spring semester?

J-1 students are not required to depart the United States during spring semester. Like all J-1 students, you are required to maintain your J-1 visa status and continue full-time enrollment. If you will complete your program in Spring, you must either transfer your DS-2019 to another institution, apply for Academic Training (AT), or depart the U.S. within 30 days of the last day of classes. If you complete your studies in Spring, your DS-2019 will automatically complete within 30 days.

If you are planning to enroll for the fall 2020 semester, you are eligible to remain in the U.S. during the summer semester. Summer is considered a vacation semester if you are full-time during the spring 2020 semester and planning to enroll as a full-time student for fall 2020. Students are required to enroll for in-person courses for fall 2020 as soon as fall enrollment becomes available. Students are limited to one online course towards their full-time course load.

Will MSU terminate my DS-2019 if I depart/departed the U.S. prior to the end of Spring semester?

If you maintain full-time enrollment during the spring 2020 semester and you are planning to continue your studies/enroll full-time for fall 2020, MSU will not terminate your DS-2019.

My DS-2019 program end date is expiring in May 2020. However, I will not complete my studies in Spring. I need to enroll in a course required for my major during summer and/or fall 2020. What should I do?

If your DS-2019 is expiring and you need to continue your studies beyond the program end date, then you must apply for a DS-2019 extension prior to the program end date. Complete the J-1 Student Extension Request and submit to OISS as soon as possible. Once the program end date expires, your DS-2019 will auto-complete. You would then need to depart the U.S. and request a new DS-2019 if you wanted to continue studying in the U.S.

What is the Five-month rule?

The "five-month rule" is a rule that applies to F-1 students. It does not apply to J-1 students. There is no regulatory limitation on how long a J-1 student can stay outside of the U.S. at present.

I have a valid J-1 visa. Does that guarantee my entry into the United States?

A J-11 visa does not guarantee entry into the United States. A J-1 visa only allows a student to travel to a U.S. port-of-entry (generally an airport) and request permission to enter the United States. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officials at the port-of-entry have authority to permit or deny admission to the United States.

After you present your passport, visa, and DS-2019 (endorsed for travel) at the port-of-entry, a CBP official will make the decision to allow/deny you entry to the United States. Once you are allowed to enter the United States, the CBP official will provide an admission stamp and electronic Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record.

J-1 students are not required to get a travel signature to depart the U.S. Students should request a travel signature electronically. Students are required to complete the form and OISS will issue an updated DS-2019 endorsed with a travel signature.

If COVID-19 continues until fall semester, will I be able to continue my studies at MSU?

Due to the fluid nature of COVID-19, it is unknown how long this pandemic will continue. The university is in constant contact with the Ingham County Health Department and continues to follow guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). MSU will base its decision on guidance from governmental entities. OISS will communicate any developments regarding summer or fall courses/enrollment. Students should enroll for in-person courses for fall 2020 as soon as enrollment opens.

I am completing my studies in Spring 2020; can I still apply for J-1 Academic Training (AT)?

J-1 students who are completing their studies in Spring 2020 are eligible to apply for AT. Students must be able to begin AT inside the U.S. between 05/02/2020 and 05/31/2020.

I am completing at the end of the summer semester; can I enroll in online courses?

If you are outside of the United States and wish to complete your final course(s) outside of the U.S., you are eligible to enroll for online courses. If you do not intend to return to the U.S. by 05/31/2020 to undertake Academic Training, then you must complete the Notice of Departure for J-1 Students. Failure to complete the Notice of Departure for J-1 Students/Scholars may cause your DS-2019 to be terminated.

MSU announced that summer 2020 session one, and summer 2020 full sessions will be online. Decisions regarding summer two have not been made as of yet.

If you are graduating in summer 2020 and enroll for your remaining credits, you are eligible to maintain your J-1 student status, regardless of whether those courses are online or in-person.

If you need to enroll in less than full-time, you are required to apply for Reduced Course Load for your Final Semester.

I am currently on Academic Training and my employment has been affected by COVID-19. 

Individuals on Academic Training who have had a material change in employment should notify OISS of the changes via an email sent to jvisas(at)msu.edu .

Material changes include but are not limited to:

• Any change of the employer's EIN
• Any reduction in student compensation that is not tied to a reduction in hours worked
• Any significant decrease in hours per week
• Changes to the employer's commitments or student's learning objectives
• Change of work site address (example: working remotely due to COVID-19)

I am on Academic Training and I have lost my training opportunity. Am I eligible to apply for unemployment?

First, you must worry about maintaining status. If one AT position ends, you have 30 days to start a new AT opportunity. Individuals who have questions related to unemployment benefits should look to the unemployment benefits section of the US Department of Labor website. Additionally, individuals should look to their state of residency for state-specific guidelines on unemployment.

Is OISS open?

OISS is open and ready to serve all students and scholars through online advising. We are currently offering virtual advising by: Appointments: 20-minute Zoom video conference sessions at various times, Monday-Friday LiveChat Advising:Offered 1 – 3 PM (EST), Monday-Friday

Immigration FAQs for H1B Visa Holders

Can h-1b employee be benched during non-productive time at msu.

Just a friendly reminder that H-1B regulations include a "no benching" rule. This rule requires the employer to continue to pay the wage rate to an employee in non-productive status unless the non-productive status is a common benefit such as maternity leave, illness, etc.

An employer is responsible for paying the required wage to the H-1B employee at all times during the Labor Condition Application (LCA) validity period and as specified on the LCA and Form I-129. Even if an employee is "benched," i.e., placed in a non-productive status for reasons such as training, lack of license, lack of assigned work, or any other job-related reason, the employer must still pay the employee the required wage. Furthermore, if the LCA carries a designation of full-time employment, the employer must continue to pay the full amount listed on the LCA even if the employee works less than full time. If the LCA carries a designation of part-time employment, the employer must pay the employee for the time actually worked, but no less than the number of hours indicated on Form I-129.

For example, if a Research Assistant/Research Associate in H-1B status who provides lab instruction to students must now move to online instruction and works less than full time and/or is in non-productive status for extended period of time, they must still continue to be paid full time wages listed on LCA/I-129.

Can I premium process my petition?

The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced a suspension of Premium Process (expedited) service for H-1B and green card applications. This will dramatically slow these applications. In some cases it may delay when a new employee may begin work, and for others it may affect international travel. Each case may be different depending on the start date and travel plans. Please contact OISS advisor to discuss details.

Can I apply for H-1B visa from abroad? 

In response to significant worldwide challenges related to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Department of State is temporarily suspending routine visa services at all U.S. Embassies and Consulates. Embassies and consulates will cancel all routine immigrant and nonimmigrant visa appointments as of March 20, 2020. As resources allow, embassies and consulates will continue to provide emergency and mission critical visa services. Our overseas missions will resume routine visa services as soon as possible but are unable to provide a specific date at this time. For more information, visit the Department of State travel website. 

Can I travel to Canada or Mexico? 

In order to limit the further spread of coronavirus, the U.S. has reached agreements with both Canada and Mexico to limit all non-essential travel across borders. For more information, visit the Department of Homeland Security website.  

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• Most of MSU campus are now live in the Concur Travel Management System (found within EBS). The new travel system will now be used to submit travel requests and expense reports (reimbursements).
• Submission of a Travel Request must be initiated and fully approved prior to the start date of travel.
• Travel Expense reports (reimbursements) must be submitted within 90 days after returning from travel.

For questions regarding the use of the new Concur Travel Management System, please contact [email protected] or visit the new MSU Travel website.

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Highlight links, change contrast, increase text size, increase letter spacing, readability bar, dyslexia friendly font, increase cursor size, recent updates to mgi & msu travel .

• The Colleges of Natural Science, Veterinary Medicine, Human Medicine and Osteopathic Medicine are live in the Concur Travel Management System. Those appointed under these colleges will now use the new travel system to submit travel requests and expense reimbursements. 
• One tool for booking travel and submitting expense reports
• Travel receipts can be added to expense reports just by taking a picture
• Travel can be booked through Concur mobile app
• Electronic approvals and signatures 
• Guide for Concur Set-Up

Know Before You Go: MGI & MSU Travel Policies & Procedures

For questions regarding the use of the Concur Travel Management System, please see the MSU Travel website.

• Completion or submission of a Pre-Trip Authorization form is required for all MSU business travel . ALL travel requests must be initiated and fully approved prior to the start date of travel. Please submit your Pre-Trip Authorization through the Concur system.
• ALL travel expense reports must be submitted within 90 days after returning from travel. 
• Effective June 2019 : MSU faculty and staff are prohibited from sharing hotel rooms with students or subordinate employees. Budgetary considerations do not take precedence over this policy.
• Effective July 2019 : Several travel policies have changed. Please see Section 70  of the MSU Manual of Business Procedures for more information.

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Office of the Controller

Direct Deposit

STUDENT REFUND DIRECT DEPOSITS

Read the following information and then complete the form at bottom of page.

From  MSU  To Your Bank

The Student Accounts Office at Michigan State University has a convenient program for processing your refund. Through Direct Deposit, we can deposit your excess student account funds or fellowship stipend funds in the U.S. financial institution of your choice. It’s simple, safe and convenient.

How Do You Benefit From Direct Deposit?

• No lost or stolen checks or delay with the mail
• No running to the bank to deposit your funds and waiting for the check to clear
• No special arrangements or fear of not receiving your money because you’re not on campus, studying abroad, or not moved into your apartment yet
• You’re in control

Questions and answers about DIRECT DEPOSIT.

Q. If I sign up for Direct Deposit when will it start?

A. Sign up is immediate. Sign up now in the  student information payment portal  (select the Student Accounts tile, click on “Go to My Account”, then “My Account” then "Direct Deposit refunds”)

Q. How will I know when my refund or fellowship stipend is posted to my bank account?

A. MSU will notify you by e-mail to your MSU provided email account. In order to receive this notification you must activate your email account. Notification will include amount, bank name, checking/savings and date of deposit. You must confirm your deposit with your bank. The email is generally sent 24-48 hours prior to the deposit of funds. Do not write any checks using your credit balance until you confirm that the funds are available in your account. MSU is not responsible for bank charges you may incur by writing checks on an unconfirmed deposit.

Q. When will my funds be available to me?

A. At the beginning of each semester, refunds are processed several times the week before and the week classes start. After this, refunds are processed once a week. Fellowship stipend funds will be available on the 15th of each month. If the 15th is a holiday or weekend, stipends will be available on the closest business day prior to the 15th.

Q. Can my refund be deposited in the account of my choice?

A. Yes! You may choose any U.S. bank or credit union account for your direct deposit refund.

Q. What happens if I change banks?

A. You may UPDATE your direct deposit information any time online in  SIS .

Q. If I already have my Grad Assistant or Student payroll check direct deposited, will I need to complete this enrollment form too?

A. Yes. Your Student Account refund or fellowship stipend money is not related to the Payroll Department.

Q. What happens if my refund is not accepted by my bank?

A. If a direct deposit is not accepted by your bank, Student Accounts will be notified and the reason for the rejection reviewed. If the reason for the rejection cannot be resolved, you will be notified.

Q. If I have additional questions who should I call?

A. Please contact Student Accounts at  (517) 355-3343  or Student Accounts - Fees and Sponsored Aid at  (517) 355-5050  , Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. You can also email us at  [email protected]