BEFORE YOU ARRIVE: PRE-ARRIVAL & TRAVEL TIPS

Congratulations on securing your F-1 student visa! As you prepare to travel to the United States to begin your studies at the Intensive English Center (IEC), it is vital that you carefully plan your arrival and understand what to expect at the U.S. port of entry.

Please review the following guidelines and complete the checklist below before you depart.

 

Pre-Arrival Checklist

We have created this checklist to help you organize your travel. Make sure every item is checked off before you board your flight. (Note: You can also download our one-page PDF version of this checklist to print and keep with your travel documents).

[ ] Receive your F-1 visa stamp in your passport.

[ ] Confirm your program start date and your I-20 program begin date.

[ ] Print and sign your I-20 by hand.

[ ] Download and save your SEVIS I-901 fee receipt.

[ ] Confirm your travel dates. You may enter the U.S. no more than 30 days before your I-20 program start date.

[ ] Enroll in the required international student health insurance plan.

[ ] Secure housing arrangements in advance.

[ ] Review the IEC New Student Orientation schedule and register to attend.

[ ] Prepare for possible CBP questions at the port of entry (see travel tips below).

[ ] Gather your original documents: Passport, F-1 visa, I-20, SEVIS receipt, proof of financial support, and your IEC admission letter.

[ ] CRITICAL: Keep all documents in your carry-on bag. Never check your immigration documents in your checked luggage!

 

Entry Window & Arrival Timing

Federal regulations dictate exactly when you are allowed to enter the United States on an F-1 visa.

- 30-Day Rule: New students may arrive in the U.S. up to 30 days before the program start date listed on their I-20.

- Early Arrivals  Not Permitted: You cannot enter the U.S. on a new F-1 visa more than 30 days before your program start date. Attempting to do so may result in being denied entry at the border.

- Citizens of Canada and Bermuda: You do not need an F-1 visa stamp to enter the U.S., but you must still present your original signed I-20, SEVIS fee receipt, and financial documents to the officer at the port of entry.

 

At the Port of Entry: What to Expect

When you arrive in the U.S., you will pass through U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Here is a brief guide on what happens during this process:

1. Document Inspection: A CBP officer will inspect your passport, visa, and I-20. They may ask you basic questions about your school, your academic program, and how you plan to finance your studies. Answer honestly and concisely.

2. Biometrics: You will be asked to provide your biometrics, which includes taking your fingerprints and a digital photograph.

3. Verify Your I-94 Record: The I-94 is your official Arrival/Departure Record. It is electronic. Within 3 business days of your arrival, you must go online to cbp.dhs.gov/I94 to retrieve your record.

4. Check for Accuracy: Your electronic I-94 should clearly show your admission class as F-1 and your admit until date as D/S (Duration of Status).

5. Report Errors Immediately: If there are any errors on your I-94 record (for example, if it says "B-2" instead of "F-1"), contact the IEC immediately. Do not wait to report this issue.

 

Disclaimer: The information on this website is provided for general guidance only and is not legal advice.  U.S. immigration laws and regulations are subject to change. Students are responsible for complying with all federal immigration requirements. The IEC staff are not immigration attorneys.  For complex immigration issues, students may wish to consult a qualified immigration attorney. Always verify current requirements with the IEC and with official U.S. government sources (USCIS, ICE/SEVP, DHS, Department of State).