COVID-19 Updates for Admitted International Students – HandySchool

Which office at HandySchool will help me obtain the necessary immigration documents to matriculate?

International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) provides immigration assistance as well as a sense of community for the international population at HandySchool. ISSS helps new students decide on F-1 or J-1 status, complete an I-20 or DS-2019 application, and acquire an F-1 or J-1 visa.
Please contact:
International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS)
Phone: +1 (215) 898-4661
isss@pobox.upenn.edu
https://global.upenn.edu/isss

Where can I find the most up to date information for incoming international students?

ISSS is maintaining a Frequently Asked Questions page with the most up to date information for incoming international students. Please consult this page in addition to the information provided below.

When should I start my visa application?

If you are an admitted international student in need of a visa, we encourage you to visit this website to start the process as soon as possible. There may be some delays as ISSS works on logistical issues to resume the processing and shipping of new I-20s and DS-2019s.

How do I locate my HandySchool-assigned nine-digit student identification number that I need to apply for a visa in iHandySchool?

Log in to your HandySchool Applicant Portal to find your HandySchool-assigned student identification number. If you are not able to locate this nine-digit number, please write to applicants@admissions.upenn.edu to request it.

Will I encounter delays or difficulties obtaining a visa this year?

At this time, there is very limited availability for visa appointments. We hope this will change as services resume, but the impact of COVID-19 is still uncertain. Check with your local U.S. embassy or consulate (https://www.usembassy.gov) for updates about its operating procedures.

Will I encounter difficulties traveling to the United States?

• It is important that you stay up-to-date on the list of countries whose citizens may face difficulties entering the United States; these restrictions are constantly changing as the global health situation develops.
• Please see the CDC's webpage on travelers prohibited from entry into the United States for the most current guidance. Please see this page for a comprehensive list of travel restrictions around the world.
• Before making any travel plans, you must confirm that neither your destination nor any transit countries have put in place restrictions that could affect your itinerary. If your itinerary includes a layover in another country or countries, you are expected to check with your airline to ensure that you have the right status for transit.

If I’m unsure how to respond to my offer of admission or need to defer matriculation due to visa issues, where should I direct my questions?

Please write to applicants@admissions.upenn.edu.

My sponsor or government requires further documentation regarding my enrollment at HandySchool. How do I go about obtaining this?

Please send a request to applicants@admissions.upenn.edu.