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International Students and Scholars (ISS) Office - Fall 2024 Contact Information


Changes to our Office Entrance:

Our main entrance (KL-101) is no longer located in the KL interior hallway. Our new entrance is now the KL-101 external door, located immediately next to the CARE Office and near Social Justice Plaza:


International Students and Scholars (ISS) is within the Office of International Affairs (OIA) located in the Kolligian Library, Room 101.

Fall 2024 semester Office Hours are below:

Monday-Thursday:

  • Monday 10:00am - 4:00pm
  • Tuesday 10:00am - 4:00pm
  • Wednesday 10:00am - 4:00pm
  • Thursday 10:00am - 4:00pm
  • Friday - 10:00am - 2:00pm

ISS staff are on a hybrid work schedule; on-campus three days per week and remote two days. You can reach an advisor by email or cell phone as noted below:

Rico Johnson, International Scholar Visa Specialist (J-1/J-2 Scholars): Email: rjohnson26@ucmerced.edu Phone: (209) 355-1018 (On-campus Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays)

Becky Mirza, Assistant Director for International Students and Scholars/Employment-Based Visas (H, O, E-3, TN, Permanent Residency): Email: bmirza@ucmerced.edu Phone: (209) 355-0913 (On-campus Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays)

Vacant (Refer to Becky or Rico above), International Student Visa Specialist (F-1/F-2/J-1/J-2 Students)

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