The Ultimate Pre-College Guide for International Freshmen (and Their Parents)
Getting ready to study abroad is exciting, but it can also feel stressful. If you're a high school senior preparing for your first year at a university in the states, this guide is for you (and your parents too!). We'll walk you through the must-dos before you leave home, what to expect when you arrive, and what to pack in your luggage vs. what to buy when you get there.
1. Get Your Visa and Immigration Papers
Once you're accepted, your school will send you the documents you need to apply for a student visa:
F-1 visa students will get a Form I-20
J-1 visa students will receive a DS-2019
Here's what you need to do:
Pay the SEVIS I-901 fee
Schedule and attend your visa interview early—appointments fill fast
Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 more months
Print and back up all your key documents (passport, visa, acceptance letter, I-20/DS-2019)
Parents, watch out: Students can only enter the US up to 30 days before their program starts. Book flights carefully!
2. Join Pre-Departure Orientation
Most schools and EducationUSA centers offer orientation for international students. These help with:
Travel and packing tips
Cultural adjustment and homesickness
Health insurance and finances
Check your school’s student portal for tasks like:
Submitting health forms and immunization records
Activating student email and online accounts
Packing tip: Bring essentials from home, especially things that are hard to find overseas. See below for what to bring vs. what to buy.
3. Attend Campus Orientation and Register for Classes
Campus orientation is not optional. It’s your first big step into student life. Here’s what happens:
You’ll check in for immigration and show your visa documents
You’ll get help registering for classes
You’ll meet other students and learn about campus resources
Some schools offer free airport pickup and special sessions for international students
Skip this and you could miss your chance to enroll in classes on time.
4. Choose Housing: Dorm vs. Off-Campus
Where you live will shape your experience. Here’s a quick comparison:
On-Campus Dorms
Safer, with keycard access and dorm advisors (RAs)
Usually furnished (bed, desk, closet)
Easy to make friends
School arranges your move-in date
Off-Campus Rentals
More independence—but you’ll need to manage safety, contracts, and roommates
May not come with furniture
You’ll need to set up your own Wi-Fi, utilities, and kitchen tools
Important: Never send money for off-campus housing unless you've verified the place through official sources or seen it yourself.
5. Know Your Transportation Options
Once you're on campus, you’ll need to get around:
University buses/shuttles – Often free for students
Public buses and metro – Check if your school offers student discounts
Bike or scooter – A good choice in bike-friendly cities
Rideshares (Uber/Lyft) – Useful but expensive if used too often
If your school is in a rural area, check whether they have transportation for grocery runs and weekend trips.
6. Set Up Your Finances and Health Insurance
Before you leave:
Let your bank know you’re moving abroad
Get an international debit / credit card
Bring some cash for emergencies ($100–200 USD is enough)
After you arrive:
Open a local bank account if needed
Make sure you’ve signed up for the health insurance required by your school
Pro tip: Keep all receipts, especially for medical visits. You might need them for reimbursement.
7. What to Pack vs. What to Buy
You don’t need to bring your entire room. Here’s a smart breakdown of what to pack and what to buy later:
Pack These Items in Your Checked Luggage
Four-season clothing (especially items that fit well or you love to wear)
Skincare, cosmetics (especially brands not sold overseas)
Glasses, contact lenses, and solution
Laptop, phone, chargers (with adapters for U.S. or Canada plugs)
Copies of your passport, visa, and key documents
Formal clothes (like a suit or dress)
Taiwan snacks or instant noodles—great for homesick days or sharing with new friends
Lightweight high-value items (hairdryer, gaming device, favorite jacket)
In Your Carry-On
Passport and visa papers
Laptop and phone
1–2 changes of clothes and basic toiletries
Cash and credit card
Simple snacks
AirTag or luggage tracker
Buy These Items After You Arrive
Pillow, bedsheets, mattress cover (U.S. beds are usually Twin XL size)
Toiletries (shampoo, toothpaste, etc.)
Cleaning supplies (detergent, broom, etc.)
Kitchen supplies (pots, plates, utensils)
Desk organizers, extension cords, and lamps
Local snacks, drinks, and dorm decorations
Where to Shop
Amazon – Fast delivery for almost anything
Walmart / Target – Good for dorm supplies, food, and school supplies
Bed Bath & Beyond – Bedding and kitchen items
IKEA – Furniture and storage
Best Buy – Electronics and tech gear
UNiDAYS / Student Beans – Student discounts on name brands
Back to School Season in August is a great time to find deals.
8. Make Friends and Get Involved
Don’t just study … get connected. Join clubs, cultural groups, or sports teams. Many universities have international student associations and buddy programs. The more people you meet, the faster you’ll adjust and enjoy your new life.
Avoid the trap of only spending time with students from your home country. It’s okay to stay connected, but building new friendships is what makes studying abroad truly special.
Going to college abroad is a huge step for students and parents. Start early, ask questions, and don’t rush decisions. This journey isn’t just about school. It’s about learning to live independently in a new country.
Use this guide as your family’s checklist. With the right prep, you can leave home feeling confident and excited for the adventure ahead.
Good luck, and safe travels!