International Students and Scholars (ISS) is within the Office of International Affairs (OIA) located in the Kolligian Library, Room 101. OIA Office hours are 10:00am-4:00pm Monday through Thursday; 10:00am-2:00pm on Fridays. 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:
Becky Mirza, Assistant Director for International Students and Scholars/Employment-Based Visas (H, E-3, TN, Permanent Residency): Email: bmirza@ucmerced.edu Phone: (209) 355-0913 (On-campus Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays)
Rico Johnson, International Scholar Visa Specialist (J-1/J-2 Scholars): Email: rjohnson26@ucmerced.edu Phone: (209) 355-1018 (On-campus Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays)
Lacey Long-Vejar, International Student Visa Specialist (F-1/F-2/J-1/J-2 Students) Email: llongvejar@ucmerced.edu Phone: (209) 259-8913 (On-campus Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays)
COVID-19 & Travel-related Information:
For information on COVID-related concerns, please see our COVID-19 information page for international students and scholars.
In respect to travel, ISS encourages individuals to use caution when considering international travel due to the current state of the COVID-19. If you are considering travelling abroad, please see international travel updates for important information. All international faculty, students and staff should inform us of any international travel so we can advise on possible implications to study and employment.
Travel Updates (updated 12/24/2021 with new info on Proclamation on travel restrictions to/from African countries)
4/30/2021 - UC Letter to DOS and DHS Supporting International Students and Scholars
4/30/2021 - A Proclamation on the Suspension of Entry - India
1/26/2021 - COVID-19 Testing Required for U.S. Entry (Updated 12/20/2021)
12/9/2020 - DHS Fraud Advisory – Scammers Using SEVP Phone Numbers to Target International Students