Getting Started Information for New Students

Getting Started Information for New Students#

Before Arriving on Campus#

  • Activate your Loyola UVID. See the UVID Information page for instructions.

  • Read the current CS Graduate Student Handbook.

  • Communicate with your faculty advisor to discuss your degree requirements, course selections, and funding opportunities (if applicable/desired).

  • Receive an invitation to enroll email message from the Office of the Registrar containing important information about your enrollment appointment time for the upcoming semester. Your enrollment appointment time should also be listed in your Student Center (accessed through LUC Locus).

  • Enroll in courses after consulting with your faculty advisor. See Course Enrollment.

  • If you have a need related to a disability, contact the Student Accessibility Center.

  • Research and plan necessary vaccinations and health insurance coverage (see Student Health Insurance Coverage).

    • Vaccinations are available at nearby pharmacies.

    • The State of Illinois requires all students to provide the university with proof of immunization for Flu, Tdap, MMR and Meningococcal before the 10th day of the term. International students must also provide TB test results. The Wellness Center records proof of immunization.

    • The wellness center also recommends COVID-19 vaccination and boosters.

    • When an international or domestic student receives funding and accepts appointment(s) totaling a minimum of 33% FTE, the university offers health insurance – see the Office of the Bursar’s health information page for eligibility and cost details.

  • Pay your tuition and fees.

Upon Arrival on Campus#

  • International students should check in with ISSS within 1-2 days of arrival.

  • Get your Loyola photo ID card in Sullivan Hall.

  • Pick up your U-Pass, which provides unlimited rides on the CTA. The U-Pass can be collected from the Damen Student Center information desk.

  • Verify/update your mailing address, email address, and other contact information in your Locus Student Center.

  • Submit final transcripts and degree verification to the Graduate School, if necessary.

  • Attend all necessary orientations.

    • Information and details about orientations will be emailed to students.

    • Students are encouraged to attend the Graduate School’s new student orientation, generally held in mid-August before the beginning of Fall semester.

    • Students should also attend the CS department’s informal lunch for new graduate students, generally held in the first two weeks of class during Fall semester.

    • New TAs and RAs should attend the graduate school’s New Research and Teaching Assistantship Workshop.

    • International students on F-1 and J-1 visas must also attend the International Student and Scholar (ISS) Orientation.

  • When a student receives funding for an appointment, the Payroll and Benefits Specialists will send the student an offer letter to accept or decline and return.

  • Students are encouraged to check in with their CS Graduate Program Director.

  • Students must check in with their academic advisor.

  • Complete the required online sexual harassment training, required by the State of Illinois.