ACES International Students

Welcome to ACES! We recognize the value and diversity that our international students bring to the UConn community, and are looking forward to supporting you during your transition to UConn! Many international students begin their UConn journeys in the ACES program; some students wish to take some time to explore their options before they commit to a major, while other students will spend their time in ACES taking the appropriate steps to apply to their selected major of choice. ACES advisors will seek to learn more about your goals and priorities, and will collaborate with you to explore your options.

What is ACES? Why am I in the ACES program?

Many common questions we receive from students are addressed on our ACES FAQ page. Start there to learn more about the ACES program and your ACES experience.

If you have questions about your UConn application or why you were placed into ACES, please contact the Office of Undergraduate Admissions by calling 860-486-1111 or emailing onestop@uconn.edu. ACES advisors are not involved in admissions decisions.

When will I meet with an ACES advisor?

New students will first meet with an ACES advisor and discuss course registration during a New Student Orientation session. You will receive more information about registering for an Orientation session after you have paid your enrollment fee.

During your first two semesters in the ACES program, you will be required to schedule at least one advising appointment with your ACES advisor each semester. The purpose of these appointments will be to check in on your transition to UConn and discuss future academic course planning.

How is my ACES advisor different from my international advisor?

Your ACES advisor helps with:

  • Major exploration
  • Academic course planning
  • University/campus navigation

Your international advisor helps with:

  • Services related to immigration, government procedures, and University/community resources
  • Administering UConn’s F and J visa programs on behalf of the University
  • Applying for OPT/working in the U.S.
  • Changing visa type
  • Complicated immigration scenarios

You can connect with your international advisor on the CISS Advising Services page.

What are some advising tips I should know?

  • Check your UConn email account every day. This is how the University will communicate any important information or deadlines. When you send an email to a University representative, please include your 7-digit Student ID number or NetID. It is also important to note that most University representatives (including ACES advisors) do not work on the weekends; if you send an email on the weekend, please allow time for the University representative to respond.
  • To maintain your visa status, you must be enrolled in at least 12 credits every semester; this is typically 4-5 classes.
  • It is important to attend every class, even if you are in a very large lecture. If you are unable to attend class for an extenuating circumstance, email your instructor to let them know you will not be attending so they can provide you with any information you may be missing.
  • Communicating with your instructors and advisors is beneficial to your success! The more that you communicate, the better your instructors and advisors can support you. Do not be afraid to ask questions if you do not understand something or wish to gain more information. We are here to help!
  • If you are struggling in a class, it is okay to ask for help or use UConn support services. If you are not sure where to seek help, you can always ask your instructors or advisors for assistance.
  • Our advisors love to learn about our students! Please feel welcome to share information about your experiences, background, and culture so we can best support you.

How can I meet other students and get involved at UConn?

Get Involved On and Off Campus through resources such as UConn's cultural centers, student organizations, community service, and recreation!