planning for your u.s. arrival

Choosing your Arrival Date

All international students are required to attend the New International Student Orientation, which is held prior to the New Student Orientation. The first day of orientation will correspond to the start date on your I-20 or DS-2019. You may arrive to the U.S. up to 30 days before the start date on your I-20 or DS-2019. Since many international students travel long distances and spend many hours traveling, we encourage you to choose an arrival date that will allow you ten to fifteen days to recover from jet lag, secure off-campus housing (if applicable), and get somewhat settled before you start orientation. Orientation week is packed with activities and sessions as well as the Writing Placement Exam, so it is important to be as well–rested as possible so you are able to enjoy the week.

Pre-Arrival Checklist

Before You Arrive

• Apply for your F/J student visa or begin the F-1 visa transfer process
• Register for courses with the Admissions Office
• Choose your arrival date
• Plan for your expenses and set up a tuition payment plan
• Review health insurance requirements and prepare your Health Insurance Waiver (if applicable)
• Research housing options
• Communicate with the International Student Ambassadors (ISAs) to ask for their advice and tips and learn from their personal experiences
• Plan transportation from the airport

When You Arrive

• Attend International Student Orientation
• Take Writing Placement Exam (undergraduate students only)
• Attend visa document check and update your local address with the Global Programs Office
• Attend New Undergraduate or Graduate Student Orientation
• Get your SFAI Student ID
• Initiate your SFAI student email account
• Meet with Academic Advising or Admissions if you have questions about your schedule
• Turn in Health Insurance Waiver (if applicable)
• Pick up your completed Transfer I-20 (F-1 Transfer students only)
• Attend SFAI social activities to meet new friends