Checklist before US departure

Study in USA Overview Why USA Months of Admissions Cost of study Grading system of US Best Universities Eligibility Admission procedure MBA @ USA Masters Degree Under Graduate Degree Student visa Travel during holidays Arriving at the University Accommodation Living Expenses Important Information Health in US Checklist Before Departure Financial Assistance Employment Important Links Contacts

Use this list to check that you have taken care of all essential arrangements before you depart for the United States.

• Request information about health insurance from your university. Obtain suitable insurance.



• Obtain certified copies of your secondary and postsecondary transcripts, along with detailed descriptions of your courses and the books used in the courses.



• Obtain copies of important medical records, X-rays, and prescriptions. Have prescriptions written in English in generic terms.



• Check to see that your passport is up-to-date and valid.



• Apply to your nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for a visa upon receipt of your I-20 or DS-2019 form. Do this well in advance of your departure date. Application packets are available from many U.S. educational information and advising centers. See chapter 3 for further details.



• Learn how to reach the university from your point of entry in the United States.



• Make travel arrangements. See chapter 4 for more information. It is advisable to arrive on campus a few days to one week before orientation and registration begin.



• Contact the International Student Office (or similar office) at your university with details of your arrival plans, and confirm details of any orientation for new students held by the university.



• Finalize arrangements for housing with your university. Inquire about temporary housing, hotel, motel, or other arrangements that need to be made if arriving early or during the weekend.



• Organize finances: arrange to transfer funds to a U.S. bank and make sure you have funds for travel and expenses on arrival; consider buying traveler's checks to cover costs during your first month in the United States; consider obtaining a credit card, if possible.