New International Students
Welcome to Whitman College
Whitman College provides resources to help new international students understand the logistics of studying in the U.S. and adapting to a new culture.
Whitman hosts a special orientation program for international students, providing new F-1 students and J-1 exchange visitors an opportunity to learn more about Whitman, Walla Walla, and the United States, and focuses on relevant topics.
Participation in International Student Orientation is required for all F-1 and J-1 visa students.
Orientation Dates for International Students
For the 2026–2027 academic school year, International Student Orientation will take place in late August.
- International Students Arrive: Saturday, Aug. 22
- International Student Orientation: Aug. 23–25
- Residence Hall Move-In Day: Wednesday, Aug. 26
- New Student Orientation: Aug. 26–31
- First Day of Classes: Tuesday, Sept. 1
Arriving to Campus
Important note: The Seattle/Tacoma airport is a 4-hour drive from campus. Whitman will not provide a shuttle from Seattle. We encourage you to book your final destination to either the Walla Walla or Pasco/Tri-Cities airports. You can also find more information about getting to Whitman online.
- Walla Walla airport, code ALW
- This airport is about a 10-minute drive to campus. Whitman will provide a shuttle on Aug. 22.
- Pasco/Tri-Cities airport, code PSC
- This airport is about an hour drive from campus. Whitman will provide a shuttle on Aug. 22.
- If you arrive on a day other than Aug. 22, we strongly encourage you to check the Eastbound Grape Line bus service and book a one way adult ticket (about $25 USD).
- From: Tri-Cities Airport - PickUp
- To: Whitman College Cordiner Hall.
- Please note: Taxis and Ubers will cost more than $100 USD.
Important Information for Families
Since we know how much time, effort and expense goes into traveling to Walla Walla from abroad, we want to help you plan the best possible visit. We strongly recommend that you do not travel to campus for Move-In Day or New Student Orientation. Your student will have a packed schedule from the moment they arrive. We’ve designed a full schedule of orientation activities designed to help your student transition to college life and settle into their new home.
Instead, you should consider visiting during Family Weekend or any of our academic breaks, when students have plenty of free time.
If you choose to travel to campus to help your student move in, please be sure to arrange your own transportation and lodging well in advance. Whitman is unable to provide housing, meals or transportation for family members.
Questions? We’re here to help!
If you have questions about your student’s travel to Walla Walla or want more advice on when to visit, please reach out to Assistant Director of Global Programs Laura Cummings at cumminll@whitman.edu or 509-527-5255.