Students - Arrival Information

First Day Arrival to Valencia College

Students cannot arrive more than 30 days prior to their program start date, but you should plan to arrive at least two weeks before classes begin. On the first day of your campus arrival, please report to Ms. Bliss Thompson, International Counselor and Responsible Officer, at Valencia's West Campus, 1800 South Kirkman Rd., Student Services Building, office 146. It is best to contact her in advance to request an appointment. The hours are Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Phone: 407-582-5830 / Email: bthompson@valenciacollege.edu. Please bring the following documents when you check in:

  • Passport with J-1 visa
  • I-94 card
  • DS-2019
  • The documents above for all J-2 dependents
  • Proof of insurance payment (if already purchased)

Exchange Students: Please contact the Study Abroad & Global Experiences Office at 407-582-3188 to be matched up with a Valencia "buddy" who will help acclimate you to campus life and getting around Orlando.

New Student Orientation

Exchange Students Classroom

All new students are required to participate in an orientation session before registering for their first term. This session includes information on education planning, an introduction to college resources, and advising for the first term. You must sign up in advance for the New Student Orientation at Valencia.

J Exchange Visitor Orientation

All J Exchange Visitors are required to attend a J Exchange Visitor Orientation session that covers information specific to this program:

Emergency Messaging System

Upon arrival, be sure to sign up for Valencia's Emergency Messaging System. You do this through your Atlas account. Find VALENCIA ALERT on your Atlas home page and click the link to sign up for alerts. You can receive instant notification via email or text message to your cell phone.