1. Check-In with Your International Office & SEVIS Activation
This is your first official step in staying compliant with U.S. immigration law. F-1 visa holders must validate their arrival by checking in with their university’s Designated School Official (DSO). Your SEVIS record must be activated within 30 days of your program start date.
What to do:
- Visit the international student office or complete the check-in process online (varies by school).
- Submit copies of your passport, visa, I-94 form, I-20, and proof of arrival (like a boarding pass).
- Ask about next steps, such as orientation, CPT/OPT workshops, and maintaining legal status.
Tip: Always keep copies (physical and digital) of these documents organized — they are your lifeline.
2. Find Safe, Affordable, and Convenient Housing
Housing affects everything from academic focus to emotional well-being. A poor living arrangement can lead to isolation, mental stress, or financial strain.
What to do:
- Research both on-campus and off-campus options.
- Avoid common scams by never paying before seeing the apartment and dealing with verified landlords.
- Use trusted sites like Zillow, Apartments.com, Homes.com or school housing pages, and ask seniors or student groups for leads.
Tip: Prioritize housing that is close to campus or on a bus route and includes heating (important in cold states like Michigan).
3. Set Up a U.S. Bank Account & Mobile Connection
You’ll need a bank account to receive funds, pay rent, and avoid carrying cash. A U.S. phone number is essential for everything from receiving verification codes to applying for jobs or even ordering food.
What to do:
- For banking, bring your passport, I-20, visa, and proof of address. Banks like Chase, Wells Fargo, and PNC are international-student friendly.
- For SIM cards, Mint Mobile, T-Mobile, and AT&T offer affordable prepaid plans with no credit check.
Tip: Choose banks with no monthly fees and mobile apps that are easy to use.
4. Attend International Student Orientation & Campus Onboarding
Orientation is more than a welcome — it’s a survival toolkit for succeeding in an American academic and social environment.
What to do:
- Take note of campus support services, including mental health counseling, tutoring, writing centers, and career services.
- Learn about your health insurance policy — what it covers and how to use it.
- Understand campus policies on plagiarism, work permits (CPT/OPT), and academic integrity.
Tip: Ask questions. Orientation leaders expect it, and your future self will thank you for paying attention now.
5. Apply for a State ID or Driver’s License (Even If You Don’t Drive)
Your passport alone is not sufficient identification for many everyday activities in the U.S. A state ID makes life easier when dealing with banks, police, or even at concerts and stores.
What to do:
- Visit your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) with your documents (passport, I-20, proof of address).
- Some states allow you to apply without a Social Security Number if you’re not employed yet.
Tip: If you plan to drive, start reading your state’s Driver’s Handbook and prepare for both written and practical tests.
6. Join a Supportive Community of Fellow Students
Navigating a new culture alone can lead to burnout, anxiety, and a sense of disconnection. Building relationships with other international and domestic students gives you emotional support, shared resources, and a sense of belonging.
What to do:
- Join cultural associations, international clubs, or faith groups.
- Attend welcome parties, workshops, and community events.
- Follow pages like Cristam, student-led blogs, or WhatsApp groups focused on international student experiences.
Tip: Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Many others have been in your shoes and are happy to support you.