About the Office of International Services (OIS)
Diversity is at the heart of Governors State University, where a global community of students, faculty, and staff creates a vibrant environment in Chicago’s South Suburbs. The Office of International Services (OIS) welcomes and supports international students, scholars, and their families by providing guidance on admissions, immigration matters, and campus resources, while also promoting cultural, academic, and social engagement. OIS plays a key role in advancing internationalization across campus through events, programs, and curriculum support, and is committed to being accessible, friendly, and responsive to your needs. Whether your time at GovState is short or long, our team is here to help you succeed and make your experience both rewarding and meaningful.
International Student Support
OIS supports international students before arrival, during their studies, and through graduation. Our office helps students navigate immigration processes such as visas, maintaining legal status, and travel regulations. OIS also offers mandatory orientation programs to introduce new students to campus resources and compliance rules, along with ongoing advising on academics, employment options, and program extensions. In addition, students benefit from services like cultural integration support, and access to campus resources such as counseling and wellness services, all aimed at promoting academic success and easing the transition to studying in the United States.
Study Abroad
The study abroad team in OIS provides students with opportunities to gain international academic and cultural experiences through programs such as faculty-led trips, exchange programs, and third-party study abroad options. The office supports students throughout the entire process by helping them explore programs, apply, understand costs and financial aid, and prepare for travel. It also promotes global engagement on campus by coordinating international partnerships and ensuring students have safe, meaningful experiences abroad that enhance their academic and professional development.
International Faculty and Scholars
OIS supports departments throughout the process of inviting international faculty and scholars on the J-1 Exchange Visitor visa by serving as the program sponsor and primary compliance resource. We guide departments in selecting the appropriate J-1 category, collect and review required documentation, and issue the DS-2019 form necessary for the visa application. We ensure all federal regulations are followed, including verifying funding, insurance, and eligibility requirements. We also advise incoming scholars on the visa application process, pre-arrival planning, and maintaining status, while providing ongoing support to both the scholar and host department throughout the duration of their program.
Contact OIS
- Office of International Services
- Governors State University
- 1 University Pkwy, GMT 168, University Park, IL 60484
- 708.235.7611
- ois@govst.edu