Effective May 15, 2013, all J-1 visitors not covered through UCSHIP, UCLA Medical Benefits, or the Postdoctoral PSBP plan, will be required to obtain mandatory health care coverage through the UCLA Visiting Scholar Injury and Sickness Insurance Plan (VSISP). The visiting scholar or student may opt-out of VSISP by demonstrating proof of comparable coverage for the duration of the appointment period. This policy will apply to any new requests received May 15, 2013 and onward for both the UCLA Main Campus and UCLA School of Medicine units. See Official Announcement.

Mr. Stanley A. Dashew, a friend to all international students at UCLA passed away on April 25, 2013. He was an entrepreneur, inventor and philanthropist that was dedicated to international peace and understanding. Please see UCLA Newsroom, Daily Bruin and L.A. Times to learn more about his life and accomplishments.

UCLA will go smoke-free and tobacco-free on April 22, 2013. When the policy takes effect on Earth Day, the use of cigarettes, cigars, chewing tobacco and all other tobacco products, as well as electronic cigarettes, will be prohibited on UCLA's campus and at sites owned or fully leased by the university.