Study in USA and Canada at top universities: easy access for international students

  
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Pre-arrival and orientation: coming to a US or Canadian university

When you have been accepted at a Canadian or US university and got a student visa, it's time to prepare to come to North America. You'll need to arrange your travel to America, pack what you'll need while at university, and make sure you have the required official documents. Once you arrive, you are helped to settle into your new home through the university's orientation program.

Arriving at James Madison University in the USA International students at James Madison University

Here is some useful advice to help you prepare for university in the USA or Canada:

Preparing to leave your country

Travel arrangements

Try to book your flight to the United States or Canada well ahead of time. This can help you save money on your flight and ensure that you get a seat on the flight of your choice. Major US and Canadian airports can be extremely busy and crowded around North American holidays. We can arrange your transfer on arrival from the airport closest to the university. 

Preparing your baggage for your journey

Check with the airline to find out how much baggage you can take with you. In general, you are allowed to bring two pieces of 'check-in' baggage, plus one 'carry-on' piece. If your baggage does not conform to the airline's weight and size restrictions you'll have to pay excess baggage charges or even leave some behind. Clearly label baggage with your name, US/Canada address, and a telephone number (your cell phone or the number for the university).

Important documents to bring

When you travel to the United States or Canada, you will need to bring important legal, medical and academic documents. Do not pack your documents in a suitcase that you are going to check in. Keep your documents with you at all times when you travel, and be prepared to show your documents to officials if they ask to see them.

Legal documents

To enter the United States or Canada, you need to show certain documents to be allowed to pass through security and customs:

  • a valid passport
  • your visa or study permit
  • a Certificate of Eligibility (I-20) - for the USA
  • an official letter of acceptance from the University - for Canada
  • an arrival-departure card (I-94, distributed during the flight) - for the USA

An immigration officer will ask your purpose for coming to the United States or Canada. Tell the officer the name, city and state of your university.

Medicines and medical documents

Check with the US embassy or consulate or Canadian visa office in your home country for guidance on what medical documents you need and if you must have a medical examination and/or immunizations before entering North America. Your Student Enrollment Advisor will tell you about specific immunization and medical documentation requirements of the university. If you need to bring any medications into the United States or Canada you MUST indicate that on your customs form. The Embassy/visa office can also give you guidance on restrictions on bringing certain medications into the country.

Academic documents

The required academic documents vary, and your Student Enrollment Advisor will tell you what they are. Generally, you will need your Acceptance Letter, Housing Agreement, and Financial Statement Form.

Banking and money in North America

Opening a US or Canadian bank account

DO NOT carry large amounts of cash or keep large amounts of cash in your accommodation. If you are coming to the United States or Canada for at least a full academic year, it is recommended that you open a bank account. There are a variety of different banks in the USA and Canada. Most campuses have an ATM on or near campus. Choose a bank that is easily accessible for you. Before opening an account, check whether money can be transferred into it from outside of North America.

You will be given guidance on opening a US or Canadian bank account during your university orientation.

Cash for your journey

While traveling and when you first arrive in the United States or Canada, you'll need some cash for personal use. Plan to bring between $100 to $200 in small cash denominations of no more than $20. You may be able to use your automated teller machine (ATM) card from your home country in ATMs in North America. Ask your home bank if you are able to use your ATM card at US/Canadian banks.

Cost of living

Remember, the cost of living in North America may be a lot higher than in your home country. You'll need to plan for additional costs and personal expenses in addition to the Universities in the USA and Canada fee.

Arriving in the United States or Canada

You should aim to arrive at the university in time for the international student orientation program, usually a few days before classes start. If you arrive earlier than the arrival date specified by the university, you will be responsible for arranging your own accommodation, at your own expense, until your university accommodation becomes available.

Transfer from the airport

If you have booked an airport transfer with us, you will be met by a private car driver as you come through the arrivals lounge at the airport. They will hold a sign with your name on. If you arrive at the airport and no one has met you, call the emergency telephone number that you will be given on confirmation of your booking.

Arrival at your accommodation

The driver will take you straight to your accommodation, whether it is on or off campus. It is a good idea to have details of your residence and the address in your carry-on baggage. If you are staying on campus and you arrive within regular office hours you will stop first at the International Student Office. If you arrive after regular office hours you will be taken to the campus safety office and they will help you access your accommodation.

Settling in to your accommodation

If you are staying in a university residence, you will need to complete your room inventory and give it to your Residential Advisor (RA). Your RA will help you settle in, find out about the local facilities, and provide information on 'getting to know you' events and social activities. Spend time getting to know your room-mate. Read more about university accommodation in the USA and Canada.

Your first days at a Canadian or US university

Do not worry if you feel nervous when you begin your studies in North America. The first days at university are very exciting, but also can be challenging for new students. You will be busy getting used to being away from your home country and familiarizing yourself with North American values, customs, and traditions. You'll learn how to find your way around the university and the city, meet lots of new people, and adjust to regularly hearing and speaking English. Make sure you introduce yourself to the International Student Advisor.

Orientation programs

Your orientation program will usually take place during your first few days at university. The program will help ease your transition to studying at a Canadian or US university. At orientation you will be provided with key information related to the University. Orientation is also an opportunity for you to meet and talk with other students who may be having challenges that are similar to yours. During your student orientation you will learn about:

  • the university or college's rules and regulations
  • the layout of your university and what you can do for fun on campus
  • classes to take for your first semester
  • purchasing books and supplies
  • your meal plan and registration
  • important guidelines to maintaining your visa status
  • how to open a local bank account
  • setting up your telephone's voice mail and answering system