Are you ready to turn your American dream into reality? So you have to start this process carefully and timely. StudyLead Consultants know that it is so tempting to handle papers, pack the necessary things, and prepare to live in a new country. This is the reason why we have developed a pre-departure checklist for students to assist you in planning out all you will need prior to boarding your flight.
This guide will take you through all the most relevant steps, such as passport and visa requirements of the US student visa, to the packing essentials for studying in the US, making your journey to educational adventure a completely stress-free beginning.
Step 1: Visa Essentials and documents
Before stepping on a plane, it is important for a student to do all the paperwork. The absence of any document may slow down your travelling or admission.
A table to look into what you will require is given here:
Documents | Purpose | Tips/Notes |
Valid Passport | Official Identification | Should have a minimum of 6 months validity to your intended stay. |
F-1 or J-1 Visa | Legal entry for studies | After getting your I-20 or DS 2019 submit it immediately. |
Forms: I 20 or DS 2019
| Evidence of admission and visa qualification.
| Carry this form in your carry -on. You will present it in US immigration. |
SEVIS Fee Receipt
| Confirms visa registration | Make a copy of the payment confirmation and print it. |
Admission Letter | Proof of enrollment | This might be required at the university check-in or airport. |
Financial Documents | Proof of funding | Included: bank statements or sponsor letters. |
Health and Vaccination Records | The majority of universities require it. |
Confirm health departments in universities in advance. |
Step 2: Understand Financial and Bank Requirements
When it comes to a successful transition, effective management of money is important.Before leaving, make sure you:
- Report to your local bank on international usage of your debit/credit cards.
- Bring a minimum of 200-500 euros as cash (to cover preliminary costs, such as taxis, food or SIM cards).
- Open a student friendly bank account immediately when you get into the US.
- Know when and how you will pay your university tuition fee.
Step 3: Airport and Arrival Procedures
You are taking a significant step when you come to the US. This is what to expect during immigration:
- Available your I-20, visa and passport.
- Respond to questions of an interviewer sincerely and with no fear.
- Foreigners are given a temporary record of your entry (I-94 form) and an entry stamp.
- Gather travel baggage and pass on through customs.
You have arrived at your university:
- Participate in orientation programs.
- Get to know your international student advisor.
- Check-in your student ID card and campus residence.
Step 4: Accommodation and Day to Day Set-up
The moment you are there you will have to find your home and be at home.
On-Campus accomodation:
The best option in the event of joining a new international student year. Has furnished accommodation, food and easy access to campus amenities.
Off-Campus accomodation:
1. Allowed more freedom and independence.
2. Never choose a place to live before you have done some research in the area near the university.
Step 5: Cultural Awareness
The foreign life may be a stressful experience. This is the way in which you must prepare yourself:
- Learn culture and traditions of Americans
- Try to stay connected with your friends and family.
- Join college life in order to meet people.
- Note, that culture shock is normal, allow yourself time to adjust to it.
Conclusion
Studying in the US is not merely a decision of choice of study, but it is a life decision. An extensive US student pre-departure checklist will make the process smooth, well planned and stress free. No matter the fulfilment of your passport and visa requirements to the US student visa or the possession of the right packing equipment to US studies, proper planning means that you can concentrate on what really matters to you; your studies and personal growth.
StudyLead Consultants provide Pakistani students with assistance at every stage of the study abroad process, starting with visa consulting, and ending with a pre-departure briefing. We wish your relocation into the US to be as pain free as it can be and as rewarding as it can be.
In case you are planning on starting your academic life with a positive mind, then StudyLead Consultants can help you to achieve success.