Before you leave your home country, take time to double-check that you have gathered all the documents listed below for your travel to the United States.
Everyone arriving in the United States passes through an inspection by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). To learn more about required U.S. entry documents, especially if you are on an F‐1 or M‐1 visa, please visit the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Study in the States website.
Certificate of eligibility
Confirm you have the I-20 or DS-2019 issued by the institution you will attend. Check that this document has been signed by the Designated School Official (DSO), that your name is spelled the same as it is in your passport, and that your birthdate is correct.
Passport and nonimmigrant visa
Ensure that your passport is current before travel. Note that citizens of some countries are required to have at least six months validity remaining on their passports before entry into the United States. Carry your passport and certificate of eligibility (I-20 or DS-2019) at all times during your travel.
Contact information
Have the name and phone number of your international student adviser on campus, in case you need to call him/her upon arrival in the United States. Have phone numbers and a calling card to contact family or friends at home if you become stuck in transit, etc. When arriving in the United States, calling cards can be purchased at most convenience stores and are recommended for new students who may not have a mobile phone or other means of communication for the first few days.
Birth certificate and marriage certificate
Be sure to carry notarized translations of these certificates if they are not in English if you are traveling with your spouse or child. Note that your spouse and child must also have their own student or exchange visas and certificates of eligibility.