Pre-Arrival Checklist

Obtain Your Visa and Plan Your Travel to the U.S.

If you are living ouside the U.S. you must obtain a passport from your government. Next, you must apply for an F-1 student visa. As soon as you receive your I-20, schedule your visa appointment at the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate to apply for an F-1 visa. The ISS "Visas" page has comprehensive information about the supporting documentation you should complile and how to prepare for your visa interview.

Canadian citizens do not need a visa, but simply present the I-20, SEVIS fee receipt, financial documentation, and proof of admission to Andrews University to the immigration officer at the U.S. port of entry. A passport may be required depending on your method of travel. For more inofmration, visit the U.S. Department of State's travel pages.

Apply for the Visa as Early as Possible

Students applying for initial entry F-1 and F-2 visas may be issued the visas up to 120 days before the academic program start date as noted in item 5 on the I-20.

You may not enter the U.S. earlier than 30 days before the start date notied in item 5 on the I-20 form. You should make your travel arrangements with this date in mind.