Pre-Arrival Guide for International Students Studying in the US (2026)

Heading to the United States to start your studies is exciting — but the weeks before you depart matter as much as the day you arrive. This guide covers everything you need to do before you leave, what to pack, what to keep in your carry-on, and what to expect when you land.

Before You Leave: Key Documents to Prepare

Getting your documentation right is the most important part of your pre-arrival checklist. Missing or incorrect documents can result in being denied entry at the US border — so double-check everything before you travel.

You will need:

• Valid passport — must be valid for at least six months beyond your entry date into the US. Renew early if it is close to expiring.
• F-1 or J-1 student visa — secured from your nearest US embassy or consulate. Apply as early as possible; in 2026, visa processing times are longer than usual and interview appointments at many embassies are heavily booked.
• SEVIS Form I-20 (F-1) or DS-2019 (J-1) — issued by your institution. Check that all details match your passport exactly. Any discrepancy can cause delays at immigration.
• SEVIS I-901 fee receipt — proof that you have paid the mandatory USD $350 government fee. Keep this with your travel documents.
• Confirmation of enrolment and any other documents sent to you by your institution.
• Official academic transcripts and qualifications — carry certified copies.
• Evidence of financial support — bank statements, scholarship letters, or a financial sponsorship declaration.
• Medical records and prescriptions — if you take regular medication, bring a doctor's note in English and a sufficient supply for at least 90 days.

Make both physical photocopies and digital backups (saved to cloud storage) of every document. Store copies separately from originals in case anything is lost or delayed.

When to Arrive

F-1 and J-1 students are permitted to enter the US no earlier than 30 days before the program start date listed on their I-20 or DS-2019. You cannot enter earlier than this — it is a legal requirement, not a guideline. Plan your flight accordingly and aim to arrive with enough time to attend orientation before classes begin.

Packing List for International Students Travelling to the US

What to keep in your carry-on — always

Never put these items in checked luggage. Bags get delayed or lost, and you cannot enter the US or enrol at your institution without them:

• Valid passport and F-1/J-1 visa
• SEVIS Form I-20 or DS-2019
• SEVIS I-901 fee payment receipt
• Confirmation of enrolment and institution documents
• Academic transcripts and qualifications
• Medical records and prescriptions
• Emergency contact list — include your institution's Designated School Official (DSO) and their 24-hour emergency number
• Accommodation details and proof of payment
• Small amount of US cash (around USD $300–$500) for immediate expenses on arrival

What to pack in checked luggage

• Clothing appropriate for the climate at your destination — pack for your arrival season and buy winter layers locally if needed. The US has significant regional climate variation, so research weather conditions specific to your city.
• Laptop and electronics — check that your devices are dual voltage (100–240V). US outlets use Type A/B plugs at 120V/60Hz. Bring a travel adapter and voltage converter if needed.
• Medications — bring enough for 90 days, with a doctor's note in English.
• Personal and cultural items — small mementos, favourite non-perishable snacks, or anything that will help your new space feel like home.

What to buy after you arrive

Bedding, kitchen supplies, and bulky household items are widely available and affordable at stores like Target and Walmart. These items take up valuable luggage space and cost more in excess baggage fees than they are worth to bring. Buy them when you arrive.

Cash and customs

Bring a small amount of USD cash for immediate expenses. If you are carrying monetary instruments — including cash and traveller's cheques — totalling USD $10,000 or more, you are legally required to declare this at US customs. Failure to declare can result in seizure. For larger sums, use an internationally enabled debit or credit card instead and notify your bank before you travel.

Arriving at a US Airport: What to Expect

Passing through US immigration for the first time can feel daunting. Here is what happens:

1. Before landing, you may be asked to complete a customs declaration form — fill this in carefully and accurately.
2. Follow signs for Immigration and Customs Clearance on arrival.
3. Join the line for non-US passport holders.
4. When called to the immigration officer, present your passport, F-1/J-1 visa, and I-20/DS-2019. Answer questions clearly and truthfully. Have your accommodation address ready.
5. Once admitted, the officer will process your I-94 Arrival/Departure Record electronically. After clearing immigration, retrieve your I-94 record online at cbp.dhs.gov and verify that your admission class shows F-1 (or J-1) and the admit-until date reads D/S (Duration of Status). Save and print a copy — your institution will need it.
6. Collect your checked luggage and proceed through customs.

The 10 most commonly used international airports for students arriving in the US:

Atlanta (ATL), Los Angeles (LAX), Chicago O'Hare (ORD), Dallas Fort Worth (DFW), Denver (DEN), New York JFK (JFK), San Francisco (SFO), Seattle-Tacoma (SEA), Las Vegas (LAS), and Orlando (MCO).

Check your specific airport's arrival guide before you travel — most publish detailed terminal and transportation maps online.

Getting from the Airport to Your Accommodation

Check with your institution first — many colleges and universities offer a free airport pickup service for new international students arriving at the start of term. Confirm availability and book in advance if this service is offered.

If you are arranging your own transportation:

• Rideshare (Uber or Lyft): The most convenient option at most US airports. Download the apps before you travel and have a US or internationally enabled payment method set up. Note that rideshare pickup areas are designated — follow airport signage.
• Taxi: Available at designated taxi stands outside arrivals at all major airports. No pre-booking required, but more expensive than rideshare.
• Rental car: Available at the airport from companies including Avis, Enterprise, Hertz, and Budget. Requires a valid driver's license. Note that many rental companies do not rent to drivers under 21, and some charge higher rates for drivers under 25.
• Public transit: Many major cities have train or bus connections from the airport to the city centre. Check your city's transit authority website for routes and fares in advance.

Pay for transportation by debit or credit card where possible. If you pre-book, keep your confirmation documents accessible on your phone.

Your First Steps After Arriving

Once you have reached your accommodation:

• Contact your institution's international student office and report your arrival — many require this within the first few days as part of your immigration compliance.
• Attend orientation — international student orientation is typically mandatory and covers immigration requirements, campus resources, and what you need to do to maintain your F-1 status.
• Verify your I-94 at cbp.dhs.gov and share it with your DSO.
• Set up a bank account — you will need this quickly for tuition payments, rent, and daily expenses.
• Get a phone plan — you can purchase a SIM card at most major airports or mobile stores on arrival.