Overview

Arriving early may seem like a good option, but keep in mind that your move-in to your residence hall is restricted to specific move-in dates and times that you will be selecting through the One Book steps.  We recommend that you arrive on January 17, or depending on when you can move into your residence hall. Reserve a seat on the 10:40am Megabus, so that you will arrive on campus by 12:50pm! We will meet you (and your bags) at the Megabus stop on campus and from there we will guide you with check-in, the move-in process, and sessions and assistance specifically provided to international students.  Take a close look at the options below as they will impact when and how you arrive to JMU. 

Make sure to complete the Pre-Departure Form once you have figured out your arrival and move-in details!

Airports

We recommend that you fly to Dulles International Airport [IAD]. It is located approximately 2 hours (driving distance) from JMU.

If you choose not to fly into IAD, you could choose to fly into Shenandoah Regional Airport [SHD]. It is the closest airport to JMU/Harrisonburg, located only 25 minutes away (driving distance) from JMU/Harrisonburg. To get to JMU/Harrisonburg, you can arrange (online) for an airport shuttle to transport you to Harrisonburg/JMU. The cost is approximately $50.

Transportation to and from nearby Airports like (Charlottesville Airport - CHO & Richmond Airport - RIC) is challenging unless you have your own means of transportation, or someone can pick you up.

Getting from IAD to JMU

  • The Virginia Breeze/Megabus provides a daily round-trip bus to JMU/Harrisonburg and the Dulles International Airport (IAD). A one-way ride to JMU is approximately $20, and it drops you off right on campus near the bookstore. Please note: to reserve your seat you will need to pay online in advance with a credit card.

  • The IAD - Dulles International Airport Rental Car webpage may provide your family members with access to the right rental vehicle.

  • Other options include getting an Uber/Lyft or a taxi. The cost will most likely be $200+

Overnight Stay

Based on when you land and how long it takes to go through customs, etc., you may not be able to find a ride to Harrisonburg on that day.  

Nearby airport hotel. Our office has connections with the following hotels, which also offer a free shuttle to and from (IAD) Dulles International Airport:

In Harrisonburg. Your ability to stay overnight in Harrisonburg will be limited, as most of the Harrisonburg hotels will be booked by families bringing their new students to campus. 

Luggage

Look for the Office of Residence Life’s detailed list of what to prepare for your residence hall room.  

In your carry-on  

Make sure to have your:

  • Passport  
  • Form I-20 (F-1) or Form DS-2019 (J-1)  
  • I-901 SEVIS Fee Receipt  
  • Credit Card  
  • Travel voltage converter and plug adapter for charging electronic devices
  • Required medicines and/or prescriptions  

In case your checked luggage is lost:

Ask the airline to deliver the luggage to:
JMU’s Center for Global Engagement | 100 East Grace Street | Harrisonburg, VA 22807  

Have them Contact:
Cheryl Helmuth Logan | Cell: (540) 568-7594

If you will be arriving and moving in...
on your own
  • Take the 10:40am Megabus from Dulles, Washington airport to arrive on campus at 12:50pm
  • The ISSS team will greet you in person at the (JMU) bus stop. 
  • Check-in & move-in with the ISSS team and other students who do not have a car 
  • Shopping trip (get bed sheets...), JACard, Dinner, & discovering the campus together 
  • [REQUIRED] Attend international student orientation sessions- January 17-18 

Complete the:

Pre-Departure Form

with a relative/friend

  • Go directly to your assigned residence hall during your specific move-in date & time 
  • Move-in with the assistance of the residence hall advisors and orientation leaders 
  • [OPTIONAL] Shopping trip (get bed sheets...), JACard, Dinner, & discovering the campus together 
  • [REQUIRED] Attend international student orientation sessions- January 17-18 

Complete the:

Pre-Departure Form

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Center for Global Engagement International Student and Scholar Services
Holland Yates Hall (formerly Madison Hall)
MSC 5731
100 East Grace Street
Room 2nd Floor
Harrisonburg, Virginia 22807
Email Us
540/568-5209
Fax: 540/568-3310