OIS Operations and Document Requests
OIS Operations and Document Requests
Although our physical office is closed, OIS remains open remotely. We are continuing most of our functions virtually via email, phone, and video conferencing, and we are still able to process requests and provide advising and programming services.
Virtual Drop-In Advising Hours: Virtual drop-in advising hours have replaced in-person walk=in advising hours. Keep in mind that drop-in advising hours are for shorter (5-7 minute) advising questions. If you have a situation that will likely take more time to discuss, please email your assigned OIS advisor with your question and your advisor will provide an answer via email or schedule a phone or video appointment to discuss your question.
Schedule An Appointment: Students can schedule an appointment directly with their OIS advisor for assistance with more in-depth or personal immigration concerns. OIS works on a liaison model with each advisor being assigned to a specific academic department, program, and student population. You may find your assigned OIS advisor and their contact information on our website here.
Most requests are still being accepted via email by filling out the appropriate paper form and emailing your request to ois@ncsu.edu. However, OIS is currently transferring many of our request processes to GlobalHome. If a request has been moved to GlobalHome this will be indicated next to the request name on the forms page. I-20s are being issued electronically for the most part and DS-2019s are printed and made available by mail or pick up appointment.
Below we have outlined how some of our major services have transitioned while we are operating remotely:
F-1 Students: Per SEVP Guidance, I-20s issued and signed electronically during the COVID-19 pandemic are considered valid, original documents. Therefore OIS is creating I-20s electronically and will email F-1 students the electronically issued and signed I-20. The only exception to this is in the event that the I-20 is needed for an SSN application.
J-1 Students and Scholars: Per SEVP Guidance, the physical DS-2019 is the original, valid document so OIS is still issuing paper DS-2019s and will arrange to either mail the document or make an appointment for pickup, depending on what is convenient for the student or scholar. If OIS created a DS-2019 for you that you have not yet received, please email ois@ncsu.edu to arrange to have the document mailed to you.
Distribution of OPT related mail received in OIS: If you believe your OPT mail was delivered to OIS, please email ois@ncsu.edu to confirm and arrange shipment of your mail.
OIS events and programs will be held virtually until further notice. Several programs, including English Conversation Club and the IMOM Spouse Club, will take place through Zoom beginning the first week of classes. We are committed to finding new virtual ways for our campus community to connect and engage with each other. Follow OIS on Instagram and Facebook for more details!