International Student Checklist
Arrival Checklist:
01
Pre-Arrival (1-2 Months Out)
Document Packet: Keep physical and digital copies (secure cloud storage) of Form I-20, passport with valid F-1 visa, SEVIS fee receipt, and university admission letter. Never put these in checked luggage.
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Financial Setup: Notify your home bank of international travel. Ensure you have access to funds for the first few weeks via a globally accepted credit card. Alternatively, you could a multi-currency account such as the one from WISE open a multi-currency account such as the one from WISE before you leave your home country. It will take just a few minutes online, and you will get a bank account number, routing number and a virtual debit card. Add your virtual card to your wallet and start spending immediately.
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Housing Finalization: Confirm your lease, temporary accommodation, and keys/check-in procedure.
The Homestay community offers you the opportunity to live with a local and to truly discover your destination.
Discover flexible hostel stays and budget-friendly accommodations.
Budget-friendly motels and suites for short-term stays before your accommodation is ready. Motel 6: Book your stay & Safe up to 15%
Long-term off-campus student housing. We are here to help.
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Health Insurance & Immunizations: Upload required vaccination records to your university portal and review your student health insurance plan details.
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02
First 48 Hours in the US
Connectivity (ESIM): Activate an eSIM data plan (like Saily or Holafly) before landing so you have internet the moment the plane touches down, or plan to pick up a local SIM card (T-Mobile, Mint Mobile) shortly after arrival. We are using Saily. Enter discount code: studenthubglobal for 10% off
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Airport Transfer: Book a reliable shuttle, taxi, rideshare (Uber/Lyft), or check your university’s international student welcome pick-up schedule.
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Initial Groceries & Essentials: Locate the nearest grocery store, pharmacy, and essentials shop for bedding and toiletries. Alternatively you can pre-order them on AMAZON
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03
First Week on Campus
Check-In & SEVIS Validation: Attend your mandatory international student orientation and check in with the Designated School Official (DSO) to activate your SEVIS status. Do not skip this!
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US Bank Account: Open a local student checking account. You will need your passport, I-20, proof of address (lease or university letter), and student ID. Alternatively you could open a multi-currency account such as the one from WISE before you leave your home country. It will take just a few minutes online, and you will get a bank account number, routing number and a virtual debit card. Add your virtual card to your wallet and start spending immediately.
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Mobile Plan Switch: Transition from your temporary eSIM to a long-term US carrier plan if you want a local phone number for job applications and daily life.
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Campus ID Card: Get your official student ID photo taken and printed; it doubles as your campus transit pass or library access key in many places.
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04
Month One Essentials
Healthcare Familiarity: Locate the student health center on campus and understand how to access local urgent care or pharmacies using your insurance card.
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Local Navigation: Download transit apps (like Google Maps, Transit, or local university bus trackers) and explore grocery options that cater to international or home-country taste.
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