Job Description Summary

International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) warmly welcomes and supports all international students, faculty, and scholars at the University of Maryland, College Park. Our experienced team recognizes the vital contributions of international community members to our classrooms, campus, and broader community. As the university’s primary resource for immigration-related matters, ISSS helps individuals maintain their immigration status and successfully transition to life in the U.S. and at UMD. We are committed to fostering a culturally responsive, inclusive environment that supports academic, professional, and personal success. ISSS also offers a wide range of workshops and programs on educational, cultural, and social topics designed to enrich the UMD experience for international students, faculty, and scholars.

The International Student Pre-Arrival Advisor (ISPA) serves as a key resource for newly admitted international students, advising them on immigration status and SEVIS obligations prior to their arrival at the University of Maryland. Reporting to the Pre-Arrival Manager, the ISPA supports students through the immigration document and visa application process, while also assisting with general questions related to preparing for campus life. This position is part of the International Student team, which oversees immigration compliance and support for approximately 6,000 international students.

The ISPA provides accurate, student-centered guidance and acts as a liaison between international students and university departments, addressing regulatory, financial, and personal concerns. The advisor plays an essential role in maintaining institutional compliance with immigration regulations by serving as a Designated School Official (DSO) for F-1 students and an Alternate Responsible Officer (ARO) for J-1 exchange visitors in the SEVIS system. IPSA develops a comprehensive understanding of 8 C.F.R. 214 (F-1 regulations) and 22 C.F.R. Part 62 (J-1 regulations).

Example of Work:
- Advise newly admitted international students on immigration regulations, visa procedures, and SEVIS requirements.
- Serving as Designated School Official (DSO) and Alternate Responsible Officer (ARO) for issuance of certificates of eligibility for F and J visas.
- Maintains compliance with government regulations ensuring a high standard of cooperation with FERPA and Department of Homeland Security regulations with respect to admissions practices (8 C.F.R. 214 for F-1 students; 22 C.F.R. Part 62 for J-1 students).
- Evaluating financial and immigration credentials to determine eligibility for Department of Homeland Security certificates of visa eligibility.
- Assist students with document issuance (e.g., I-20, DS-2019) and support the visa application process.
- Respond to inquiries from students, faculty, and staff regarding immigration and transition-related issues.
- Collaborates with staff and outside agencies in resolving complex prospective student issues relating to admission and all pre-arrival issues (e.g. VISA complications, payment of SEVIS fees, etc.).
- Develop and maintain a thorough understanding of relevant immigration laws, university policies, and procedures.
- Design and deliver pre-arrival programs such as orientation sessions, webinars, and informational workshops.
- Provide specialized SEVIS support for various student cohorts including transfer students, exchange students, English Bridge Program students, MEI students, summer admits, and quarter-term students.
- Collaborate with university departments and admissions offices to improve the efficiency and compliance of the admission-to-arrival process.
- Ensure accurate SEVIS reporting and timely communication with federal agencies regarding student records.
- Identify and escalate compliance issues through appropriate reporting channels.

Physical Demands:
Work is performed in an office environment and requires the ability to operate standard office equipment and keyboards. Must have the ability to lift and carry small parcels, packages and other items, to walk short distances, and drive a vehicle to deliver and pick up materials.

Licenses/Certifications:
Must be a U.S. Citizen or Legal Permanent Resident, per federal requirements for access to SEVIS as a DSO/ARO.

Minimum Qualifications

Education: Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university.

Experience: Two (2) years of professional experience in counseling, advising, or student services.

Other: Additional work experience as defined above may be substituted on a year for year basis for up to four (4) years of the required education.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, & ABILITIES

Knowledge of F-1 and J-1 visa regulations.
Knowledge of business technologies for use in an e