US-FINLAND-POLITICS-DIPLOMACY-NIINISTO
Finnish President Sauli Niinistö (R) takes questions from students during a panel discussion organized by the Freeman Spogli Institute for International Studies at Stanford University in Palo Alto, California, on March 7, 2023. LAURE ANDRILLON/AFP via Getty Images

Starting your journey as an international student in the US comes with hundreds of better opportunities and job prospects, but getting there is not as easy as the application itself.

With these 4 tips for accepted international students in the US, you can easily follow steps that will ensure you a smooth transition from VISA applications to finally attending the university orientation.

Remember, you worked hard to get this opportunity to study abroad and these processes will prepare you for an unforgettable higher education.

Apply for a Student Visa Early

One of the early tips for accepted international students in the US is to immediately apply for a visa. US News shared that your chosen university will send you a form I-20 so you can schedule an appointment at the US embassy or consulate as soon as possible. It's best to apply 5 months before classes begin and keep track of fees, such as the SEVIS, before attending your visa interview.

University Orientation Programs

The scariest part as an accepted international student in the US is departing your home country for another. But don't worry, most universities have pre-departure orientations you can attend while still at home so you're prepared when you arrive. There are also on-campus ones, but both will give you practical tips to help you survive the life of an international student emotionally, mentally, and socially.

Prepare Life Off Campus

According to US News, not a lot of campuses offer dormitories for international students. You're lucky if this is the case, but if not, you have time to prepare for what your college life would be like outside of your chosen university. Keystone Education Group noted that your school will definitely share information on housing, packing lists, and even health insurance, so you can live comfortably and safely away from home.

Book Travel Arrangements Early

Imagine you've gone to lengths to attend your dream university in the US only to find out that stressful last-minute changes await you on the campus. To avoid this, US News also shared that you can enter the US up to 30 days before classes begin if you're on an F-1 or M-1 visa. You can plan ahead to catch cheaper flights and it's also best to regularly check university guidelines on the best airports to arrive at as well as transportation methods and costs from the airport to the campus.

Checking all requirements off your list already takes a lot of time and effort, but these 4 tips for accepted international students in the US will help lessen the burden as you prepare for college.

Topics International students in USA, International students, Study Abroad