Travel

Pre-Departure Checklist 

  1. Make sure to have a valid passport, I-20, and F-1 visa 
  2. Apply for on-campus housing / arrange off-campus housing 
  3. Submit immunization form and the COVID-19 vaccine record 
  4. Share your travel itinerary with your international student advisor 
  5. Read tuition and fee payment guidelines 
  6. Attend Pre-Departure Orientations 
  7. Register for International Student Orientation (your attendance is mandatory) 

 

Arrival for F-1 Student

For F-1 students, you may arrive in the U.S. no earlier than 30 days before the program start date on your I-20 (you can find your program state date on page 1 of your I-20). 

We strongly encourage you to explore the Study in the U.S. website to learn how to prepare for your trip to the US: 

If the CBP officer needs to verify information with your school or program, please call the OIPS office at (703) 993-2970.

 

Items to Carry with You 

    1. Passport 
    2. I-20 
    3. SEVIS fee receipt 
    4. Cash: USD 500 - 700 
    5. Mobile device (phone, tablet, etc) 
    6. Pen

 

From Airport to Campus  

International students arrive at the Dulles International Airport.  

When you arrive at the airport consider the following transportation options. The majority of international students travel by Super Shuttle from the airport to Fairfax, VA. It is cheaper than a taxi and more convenient than public transportation. Public transportation is an option but can be challenging when you have a lot of luggage. 

Check out the Dulles Airport transportation info page for more information.