Arriving in The United States
Arriving in The United States
Arriving in The United States
2014
Arriving in the
United States
e-Guide
volume II
Table of Contents
Introduction......................................................................................................3
Your Acceptance Letter....................................................................................3
Finances, Visa, and Housing.............................................................................3
Prepare Your Financial Documents............................................................3
Prepare Your Visa Documents...................................................................4
Review Your Housing Plans.......................................................................4
Pre-Flight Preparation.......................................................................................5
Arrival in the U.S...............................................................................................6
Learn Your Neighborhood.................................................................................6
Conclusion.......................................................................................................7
Resources........................................................................................................7
Introduction
Congratulations on becoming a study abroad student in the United States! The world awaits you,
and your potential is limitless. For those of you beginning your studies in the U.S. for the first time,
WES Student Advisor has put together a guide to help you prepare for your arrival in the U.S.
Pre-Flight Preparation
Packing for the U.S.
Depending on which region of the U.S. you will be studying in, the amount and types of items
you will need will vary. For instance, if you will be in a region with four seasons, you will need to
prepare for all types of weather conditions. However, if you are in a warmer region, you may not
need as many items. Be sure to connect to a U.S. specific weather site to get regular updates
of local climate conditions where you will be staying. Here are some items to bring with you:
Airline ticket
Passport
I-20 or DS-2019
Evidence of financial support in the amount shown on your I-20 or DS-2019 form
Documentation of your permanent residence in your home country
Extra passport-size photographs
Official transcripts (or certified copies of them) for all secondary and post-secondary studies
Medical and dental records, including records of immunizations and vaccinations with
English translation
Supply of any medications you are currently taking
Eyeglass or contact-lens prescription
Travelers cheques, cash, or bank card (debit or ATM) in an amount adequate for travel
emergencies and settling-in expenses
Birth and marriage documents
International drivers license
Conclusion
We hope this information was helpful for you. The most important thing to keep in mind is that
there is a support network for you in the U.S. As international students, make sure to not feel
embarrassed or afraid of asking for help and getting answers to your questions. Visit us at www.
WESStudentAdvisor.org for more tips and advice on studying abroad in the U.S. and Canada.
Resources
WES Student Advisor: August Timeline for International Students
WES Student Advisor: Financial Documents for U.S. Student Visa