The checklist to help guide you as you begin your New Paltz journey!
❶ Activate & Access Your New Paltz Email
✓ Activate your New Paltz email address. A one-time activation email will be sent to your personal email address within 24 hours after you have been admitted.
✓ After activation, access your New Paltz email account one of four ways:
Click here for more information about getting started with your New Paltz email.
Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) for International Travel: MFA for International Travel
For questions, contact the IT Service Desk: servicedesk@newpaltz.edu | 1-845-257-4357
❷ Preparing Your Immigration Documents For Your Interview
✓ The information on the Applying for an F-1 Visa site will help you plan your arrival and next steps in obtaining your F-1 student visa.
✓ The information on the Applying for Your J-1 Visa site will help you plan your arrival and next steps in obtaining your J-1 student visa.
❸ Initiate your Campus Housing Request
✓ Submit a Housing Request via the International Student Platform using the On-Campus Housing request.
This step is required for all students, even if you plan not to live on campus.
Once submitted, your request will be forwarded to the Office of Residence Life. Please keep in mind:
Living Learning Communities (LLC): Learn more here.
Off-Campus Housing: Make your own arrangements. Info here. SUNY New Paltz does not endorse any landlord.
❹ Request JFK Airport Shuttle Service
✓ Airport Pick up Request: Tickets can be purchased online. This shuttle is optional.
If you arrive on or before the official pick-up date, use the direct shuttle from JFK (arrive no later than 3:00 pm EST). Details sent one week prior.
Shuttle is only on official date. Taxis/public transit are expensive. If traveling independently, see Transportation From New York Airports.
❺ International Student Orientation
✓ Mandatory — All new international students must attend orientation.
✓ International Student Orientation: Meet staff, learn about services, immigration check-in, and campus life.
For questions, email: international@newpaltz.edu
❻ Student ID Card
✓ Order your Student ID Card using your Banner ID.
Deadline: At least one week before Orientation.
Your ID is essential for dorm access, gym, events, and more.
For questions, email: international@newpaltz.edu
❼ Submit your Immunization and Health Information
Log into Medicat to submit:
✓ Immunization records in English (or certified translation). MMR required by NYS.
✓ Read Meningococcal Fact Sheet + submit Response Form if no vaccine in last 5 years.
✓ TB Screening Questionnaire — test before arrival if high-risk country.
Health Insurance: All international students are automatically enrolled in SUNY’s student health insurance upon registration.
For questions: Student Health Service | healthservice@newpaltz.edu | 1-845-257-3400
Failure to comply with NYS Public Health Laws 2165 & 2167 can result in de-enrollment and loss of tuition.
International Student Services:
E-mail: international@newpaltz.edu
Phone: +1-845-257-3595