Pre Arrival Checklist

Because all of the information on the site can be a bit confusing especially for a non-native speaker of English, we have compiled a list of the most essential things you will need before arriving in the United States. Please be sure that all of these are properly attended to before your departure to the United States.

• Have your Passport

• Have a valid I-20 or DS 2019 for UMass Dartmouth

• Have your F-1 or J-1 Visa prior to departure or else you will not be allowed in the country.

• Be sure to have paid your SEVIS Fee

• Know where you will be living or have arrangements for temporary housing until your find a permanent situation.

• Arrange for your transportation from the airport

• Plan a realistic budget

• Remember to bring your immunization and health records with you

• Be sure to take care of your finances before you depart (bank account, wire transfers, etc…)

• If you are traveling with dependents (wife, husband, children) be sure to have their paperwork in order and that they have the proper Visas

• Know what you can and cannot bring onto the airplane: www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/prohibited/permitted-prohibited-items.shtm

• Ensure that the I-94 form (which you fill up in the flight before landing) is stapled onto the page opposite your US visa in your passport. You will need to submit this form to the immigration officials when you leave the country. It is imperative that you do not lose this.

• Get U.S. currency in different denominations. E.g. If  you are carrying $500 cash, instead of carrying five $100 bills, it is recommended that you divide it into smaller denominations such as three $100 bills, two $50 bills, three $20 bills, four $10 bills, two $5 bills, seven $1 bills and the remaining $3 in quarters, dimes, and nickels. You are not obligated to carry this amount but if you find yourself with a significant amount of money on you, it is always a good idea to keep a portion of that in smaller denominations just in case.

If you have any further questions regarding pre-arrival, please do not hesitate to contact the International Student Center via e-mail: INTL_OFFICE@umassd.edu