You have decided to study abroad in the United States… Congratulations! That is the first big step. Now, you want to make sure you are as prepared as possible for the adventure. While there are many emotional aspects to your preparation, there are also some logistical things you will need to get in order. It may seem overwhelming at first, but don’t panic. We are here to help.
Step 1 – Book your flight: Unless you are coming to the US from elsewhere in North America, chances are you will need to fly to your destination. So, step one is to book a flight! There are many websites out there to help you find the best flight at the best price. Kayak.com and Google’s ITA Matrix are two of the most popular. Chances are, the sooner you book, the cheaper your flight will be… but take a look at recent trends, and consider waiting until the following Tuesday to see if prices drop. You might also want to read airline reviews before making a decision. The cheapest flight might not always be worth the hassle of extra fees, poor customer service, or little leg room.
Step 2 – Get your Visa: Foreign citizens from most countries are required to obtain a Visa before entering the United States. The Visa application process can be confusing at times, so do not wait to start. Your host university should provide you with the initial documentation you need to apply for your Visa. From there, the application process may require steps like an interview and fingerprinting at your nearest US Embassy office. For more information, including qualifications, step-by-step procedures, and a timeline, see our Frequently Asked Questions page and our Applying for the F-1 Student Visa page.
Step 3 – Find housing: It is a great assurance before leaving home to know that you will have somewhere safe and comfortable to stay upon arrival at your destination. Things like location, roommates, cost, are all worth considering before making a decision. Often times, your host university will provide you with a list of housing options. As you make a decision, consider some of the tips on our housing page. If housing will not be available immediately upon your arrival, choose a nice hotel or homestay nearby.
Step 4 – Arrange transportation: Once you know where you will be staying in the US, arrange for transportation from the airport to your new home. If you will be living in a city, public transportation may be the cheapest way to go. With heavy luggage, however, it can sometimes be beneficial to arrange a car service in advance (this is usually more affordable than an airport taxi). They will take you from door to door and help unload your bags. Our transportation page provides additional details on traveling within the US.
Step 5 – Insurance and banking: You may want to set up a health insurance plan before you leave home. US banking accounts, however, must be set up in person upon your arrival. If creating a new account in the US is not something you are interested in, see if any of your country’s national banks have a relationship with banks here in the US. If so, you may be able to use local ATMs without additional fees.
With all of these logistical things out of the way, you will be free to relax and enjoy your time in the United States as best as possible. Good luck, and happy travels!
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