New Student Overview

Next Steps After Your Admission

• Set up your ePantherID. Use your ePantherID to login to all UWM systems. Use your Campus ID (991-xx-xxxx) from your official admission letter to activate your ePantherID. 
• Set up Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA). MFA is a dual-authentication system required to keep your data secure. Set up MFA and read the information under FAQ > International Students. Bring the device with MFA with you to the U.S. to prevent problems logging in later. 
• Access your UWM email. All important information from UWM will be sent to your UWM email address. Check it frequently. Go to the UWM main website > Quicklinks > Email. Log in with your ePantherID@uwm.edu and password, and open Outlook.
• Access your PAWS account. You’ll use your PAWS account to enroll in classes, update your personal information, and view and pay your tuition. Go to the UWM main website > Quicklinks > PAWS. Log in with your ePantherID and password.
• Join us on social media to connect with other UWM international students.
  • WhatsApp – Connect with other new international students and get important information from UWM about your arrival: Undergraduate Group, Graduate Group.
  • Facebook – Connect with new and current international students for guidance, meet other students from your home country or academic program, look for roommates, and more: UWM International Students Facebook Group.
  • Instagram – Follow UWM’s Center for International Education Instagram page to learn about our events and services on the UWM campus.  
• Get your I-20 and apply for a visa.  
• Explore scholarships and funding opportunities.

Planning Your Arrival

• Determine which orientations you will need to attend: Undergraduate (Bachelor’s) or Graduate (Master’s or PhD) 
• Register for classes. 
• Make your housing arrangements.  
• Consider your initial and ongoing expenses upon arrival to the U.S. View additional considerations for students with assistantships. 
• Plan transportation to UWM’s campus.
• Prepare your final transcripts.
• Download the I-20, print a hard copy, and sign and date it. A digital copy is not sufficient. You will need the hard copy I-20 for passport control when you get to the U.S. port of entry. 
• Upload a photo for your PantherCard (student ID card).  
• View our suggested packing list.

After You Arrive at UWM

• Complete arrival check-in.
• Pick up your PantherCard (student ID card) and activate your bus pass.
• Set up a U.S. bank account.
• Pay your tuition by the first day of classes.
• Understand important information about your health insurance and medical records.
• Explore nearby grocery stores and other stores for essential items.
• Purchase your textbooks.
• Get a U.S. cell phone plan. Visit a cellphone provider to get service to your cell phone from home or purchase a new one. Providers that don’t require a Social Security number are Cricket Wireless, Mint Mobile, T-Mobile and Verizon.
• Get an on-campus job.
• Apply for a social security number.
• Get a Wisconsin state ID or driver’s license.

Students Who Are Unable to Arrive

International students planning to attend UWM in-person must be on campus by the first day of classes. If you cannot be here by then, you must either defer your admission or start your classes online.