1. Get off the plane
During foreign travel, passengers are brought to the port of entry after the plane lands. The port of entry is where you will officially enter the US. You will have to go through a US immigration checkpoint immediately after getting off the plane. You should have all the documents which CBP Agent Can ask. Keep all the documents in the bag that you are going to keep with you. Take all the documents in original only. (Photo- Pexels)
2. Complete the Immigration Checkpoint Process
According to Homeland Security, foreign students must have their visa, passport, Form I-20 or Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status. Apart from these, you should have Letter of Acceptance from the University, Copy of Fee Payment, Tuition Fee Payment Receipt, SEVIS I-901 Fee Receipt, Certified Academic Transcript, Academic Certificate, IELTS Also carry along, such as test score results and bank statements showing proof that you have enough money to cover expenses in the US.
Going through immigration and customs is a two part process (try to stay in the visa line while going through immigration). Typically, the first part is the immigration checkpoint, where you will need to show your passport, visa, and I-20. The second part comes when you go through customs after picking up your checked luggage from the claim carousel in the baggage terminal. (Photo- Pexels)
3. Pick up your luggage and bags
Look for signs posted at the airport to access your suitcase and other checked luggage, or contact an airport employee or contact booth. Many people also use their own strategies to access the goods. For example, some people put stickers on their suitcase or bag, so that it becomes easier to identify it from a distance. (Photo- Pexels)
4. Go through customs
The customs related process may take longer than the immigration checkpoint. The reason for this is that the CBP officer here asks you many types of questions. There is absolutely no need to be nervous about the interview. You just need to know what you are allowed to do and bring into America and what you are not. During the interview, the officer may ask you questions related to living in America. He may question which university you are going to study in or who is paying for your education. Have answers to these questions ready in advance. Also, when asked for documents, show them immediately. (Photo- Pexels)
5. Leave for campus
After the customs process is completed, you can exit the airport. Here you will find buses, taxis as well as sharing vehicles. However, before booking a cab, do check whether your university provides shuttle service to students or not. If shuttle service is available, then you will go to campus along with other students. Upon reaching campus you will be shown to your room. Here senior students will welcome you and you will also have to attend the orientation class, where you will be told things related to the university. (Photo- Pexels)
