Graduate International Connection

Graduate International Connection (GIC) is a peer-to-peer mentoring program designed to support incoming international graduate students at UC Irvine. Those who register as a participant in GIC will be assigned a knowledgeable peer mentor to guide by email throughout the summer. They will share valuable information and personal experiences to help ease your transition to life at UC Irvine. 

If you’re an incoming international graduate student who would like to participate in GIC, please check back for the interest form in April 2027.

In addition to the option of one-on-one mentoring, GIC also offers a range of remote and in-person student panels and activities during the summer and Fall Quarter. These activities are an excellent opportunity to connect with other students, learn more about the campus, and build a supportive network. 

Follow us on Instagram to stay updated on all our latest activities, meet our incredible team of mentors, and get information about campus resources and the surrounding community. You can find us @uci_gic. For questions or more information, contact us at gic@uci.edu 

*At this time incoming students in the School of Medicine, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, and the School of Business master programs are not eligible for the GIC program. We apologize for the inconvenience. 

Calling all UC Irvine graduate students interested in making a difference in the lives of incoming international students by becoming a GIC Peer Mentor!  

You’ll have the rewarding opportunity to be a part of a program that will allow you to share your valuable experiences and insights, guide new international students through their transition to UC Irvine, develop your leadership and communication skills, and expand your global network? Roles within GIC are flexible and primarily conducted via email during the summer. Plus, you’ll have the chance to organize or participate in engaging remote student panels, activities throughout the summer and Fall Quarter and you will receive a stipend for your participation. Your knowledge and experiences are invaluable. Help create a welcoming community for our new international graduate students by joining GIC today!

***For returning GIC Peer Mentors: Are you interested in being part of the GIC Leadership Team? If so, please complete the GIC Leadership Team Application. 
 
Applications for the GIC Leadership Team and GIC Peer Mentor are now closed. Applications will re-open in December 2026 for the 2027 GIC Team. 
Stay connected with upcoming GIC panels, workshops, and community events designed to support incoming international graduate students and engage the broader GIC community. Events may be offered virtually or in person throughout the summer and academic year.     
Date & Time  Event  Location 
June 17, 2026 | 8:00 AM (PST)  GIC June Panel – hear from current graduate students about transitioning to UCI.  Zoom:  Access the Recording and Notes 
July 14, 2026 | 6:30 PM (PST)  GIC July Panel – hear from current graduate students about transitioning to UCI.  Zoom:  Access the Recording and Notes   
August 1, 2026 | 8:00 AM (PST)  GIC Online Social – Come meet your incoming cohort!  Zoom: To join, email GIC
August 14, 2026 | 9:30 AM (PST)  GIC August Panel – hear from current graduate students about transitioning to UCI. Zoom:  Access the Recording and Notes
September 19, 2026 | 5:30PM (PST)  GIC Fall Welcome Event Verano Community Center
September 25, 2026 | 11:00AM – 12:30PM (PST)  International Coffee Hour, Hosted by the UC Irvine International Center with GIC as collaborator Science Library Terrace
September 29, 2026 | 11:00AM – 1:00PM (PST)  Graduate Student Welcome Resource Fair (hosted by Graduate Division) Gateway Study Plaza
September 30, 2026 | 10:00AM – 11:00AM (PST)  Bagel Breakfast (hosted by Graduate Division) Graduate & Postdoctoral Scholar Resource Center (GPSRC)
November 4, 2026 | 10:00AM – 11:00AM (PST)  Bagel Breakfast (hosted by Graduate Division) Graduate & Postdoctoral Scholar Resource Center (GPSRC) – Register to attend. 

Use these helpful tools for managing your move to campus.

The International Student Resources page is a centralized guide for current international graduate students at UC Irvine, connecting them to essential campus resources and services. Whether you need support with academics, career development, community engagement, wellness, housing, or immigration-related guidance, this page helps you find the right office and resources to support your success throughout your graduate journey.

Are you looking to improve your academic English? Please check out courses for graduate students in the Global Languages & Cultures program:  

https://www.humanities.uci.edu/glc/graduate