International Student Check-In

International Student Check-In is a federally mandated process that requires every international student to report to International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) and have their immigration documents reviewed. Check-In should be completed as soon as possible after arrival to the United States.

Please note that for the safety of our students and staff, New International Student Check-In is now held virtually.

Steps to Check-In
When do I need to arrive in the United States?
What will happen if I arrive late?

Steps to Check-In

1. Complete Virtual Check-In Eform (REQUIRED)

Submit Virtual Check-In Eform

After arriving in the United States, check-in by submitting the check-in eform. Students with a Fall 2024 start date should submit the check-in eform as soon as possible. Students with a Spring 2025 start date should submit the check-in e-form after check-in begins at 9:00 AM CDT on January 15, 2025.

Do not submit the eform before you arrive in the United States. You must check-in with ISSS to validate your student immigration status.

The following documents will be reviewed by ISSS:

F-1 or J-1 Students

Passport
Entry Visa (Not applicable to Canadian citizens)
I-20 or DS-2019
I-94

Pending Permanent Residency

Passport
Entry Visa (if applicable)
I-797 receipt notice of I-485 application submission
EAD card (if applicable)
I-94

Other Statuses

Examples: E-2, J-2, H-4, etc.

Passport
Entry Visa (if applicable)
Notice of Action/Approval Notice (if applicable)
I-94

2. Complete all relevant items in the New International Student Checklist

View New International Student Checklist

When do I need to arrive in the United States?

If you have been issued an "Initial" I-20 or DS-2019, you may arrive as early as 30 days prior to the start date listed on your I-20 or DS-2019. Students should arrive on campus by the start date listed on their I-20 or DS-2019. (If you won't be able to arrive on time, please refer to the "What Will Happen If I Cannot Arrive On Time?" section below).

The start date listed may be earlier than the actual start date of the semester. It is in your best interest to arrive with enough time to complete the Check-In process with ISSS, register for classes, settle into your new housing accommodation, become familiar with campus, and complete your International Student Checklist.

What will happen if I cannot arrive on time?

Undergraduate Students

Newly admitted first year and transfer undergraduates should arrive on campus by the “no-later-than” report or start date indicated on the I-20 or DS-2019. The Office of Undergraduate Admissions will not give approval for arriving after this date. If you have questions about delaying admission, we encourage you to contact the Office of Undergraduate Admissions (OUA). Any student who arrives after the “no-later-than” report or start date indicated on the I-20 or DS-2019 will do so at their own risk and should contact their college office. Such students may not be allowed to enroll.