Quick takeaways
- ✓ Keep essential documents and first-day items in your carry-on.
- ✓ Follow your college's international-student orientation instructions.
- ✓ Expect adjustment to take time; ask for support early.
Arrival is part of the plan, not an afterthought. A calmer first week begins before you fly: review your college instructions, keep essential documents accessible, and decide how you will handle the first practical tasks.
Keep essentials in your carry-on
Travel folder
- Passport, visa, and Form I-20
- College address and international-office contact
- Housing and arrival instructions
- Emergency contacts
- A copy of key financial and health records
- Medication and a small first-day essentials kit
Plan your first week
First-week setup
- Complete international-student check-in and orientation.
- Confirm housing and campus access.
- Set up connectivity.
- Understand banking options before opening an account.
- Learn the campus health and safety resources.
- Ask for help early when something is unclear.