Starting your study-abroad life in the United States can feel both exciting and overwhelming. Having a clear and practical checklist can help you save time, avoid unnecessary mistakes, and adjust more quickly to your new environment.
The 12 items below are some of the most important things international students should take care of after arriving in the U.S. They are designed to help you settle in step by step and begin your academic journey with more confidence.
Buy a phone SIM card
You can buy a temporary data eSIM when you are in your country, such as Airalo, to use during your first days in the U.S. This can be especially helpful for calling an Uber, checking maps, or contacting your family after landing at the airport.
Once you are more settled, you can buy a SIM card from major providers such as T-Mobile, AT&T, Cricket, Verizon, or more student-friendly plans such as Mint Mobile, Tello Mobile, or Google Fi Wireless. If you have relatives or close friends nearby, you may also be able to join a family plan with three or four people, which can be much cheaper than paying for an individual plan.
Check in with the International Student Office
Most schools require new international students to check in with the International Student Office after arrival. When you check in, you usually need to bring your passport with visa, I-20 form, and I-94 record.
International students are also required to update their U.S. address in the SEVIS system. In most cases, this information must be updated within 10 days after you move to a new address.
Get your student ID card
Your student ID is often used to access the library, dormitory, campus buses, and other school services. In some states, such as New York, students may also use their school ID for free public transportation or discounts at certain stores and services.
Attend school and department orientation
Orientation helps you understand important academic procedures, school policies, campus resources, and support services such as the library, dining areas, sports facilities, student clubs, and international student services.
For international students, orientation is also important because it often includes immigration-related information, such as F-1 visa requirements. In addition, many departments organize their own orientation sessions. These are great opportunities to meet faculty members and connect with new students who will study with you in the coming months.
Open a bank account
Opening a U.S. bank account — usually a checking account — makes daily life much easier. It allows you to pay for online purchases, transfer rent, pay for internet, phone, electricity, gas, and other bills.
A U.S. bank account also makes it easier to receive money from family, campus job wages, or scholarships. Common documents needed to open an account include your passport, I-20 form, and U.S. address.
Register for classes
International students need to register for a full-time course load. This is often around 15 credits for undergraduate students and 9 credits for graduate students, though requirements may vary by school.
Before registering, you should talk with your academic advisor to plan your courses properly across the whole program. This is especially important if you want to transfer credits from courses you previously completed, particularly for master’s and PhD students. You should also review your class schedule carefully so you can balance study time, rest, and personal life.
Buy health insurance
Healthcare in the U.S. is very expensive, so health insurance is required by many schools. When purchasing insurance, take time to understand the basic terms, coverage, and benefits.
Large universities often have contracts with specific insurance providers. After enrollment, you may receive an insurance payment request directly through your student account. If you are new to the U.S. healthcare system, it is helpful to learn how student health insurance works so you know what to do when you need care.
Learn the transportation system
If you do not have relatives or friends nearby, transportation can be one of the first practical challenges you face. Try to become familiar with public transportation options such as buses, trains, campus shuttles, and map apps so you can reduce transportation costs.
If your school is located in a city where public transportation is limited, you may need to consider other options, such as getting a driver’s license early, renting housing closer to campus, or planning your commute more carefully.
Find housing
For undergraduate students, many schools require students to live in the dorms for at least one semester or one academic year, depending on the school’s policy. However, even if living on campus is required, you may be able to request an exemption if you live with relatives or have financial or health-related reasons. This usually requires submitting a request and receiving approval from the school.
For graduate students, joining school student groups in the area can help you learn more about housing options. You can also sublease an apartment for a short period while searching for a more permanent place.
In reality, dorms are often more expensive than off-campus housing. However, they are usually close to campus, safer, and more convenient because you do not have to worry about transportation or separate utility contracts for electricity, water, and internet. Dorm life can also help you adjust more quickly, experience campus life more fully, and make friends more easily.
Set up your school email and online systems
Most important school announcements will be sent through your school email and learning management system, often called an LMS. For that reason, you should check your school email regularly and make sure you know how to access the school’s online systems.
Get familiar with the library and study spaces
The library is an important place for group study, research, printing, and academic support. Some schools also organize workshops and training sessions through the library, so keeping up with library announcements can help you take advantage of these resources.
Many university libraries are open 24 hours during exam periods, which can be very useful when you need a quiet place to study.
Join Student Clubs
Getting involved in student organizations is a great way to make friends, improve your English, and build a professional and social network. Many universities also have a Student Association from students from your home country, which can be a valuable source of support and connection throughout your studies.
Connect with the Student Community from your home country
Connecting with the student community can help you gain practical advice about academics, housing, daily life, and many other aspects of studying in the United States. These communities can also provide support when you need help adjusting to a new environment.
You can start building these connections even before leaving your home country by joining their Facebook groups in the area where you will be studying.