Your First Big Move to the U.S.
Moving to the United States for college is an exciting adventure—but it can also feel overwhelming, especially when you are not sure what to bring or expect. International students face a unique set of challenges during move-in season, including long flights, housing coordination, and understanding local services like utilities and insurance. This international student move-in checklist breaks everything down into clear, easy-to-follow steps so you can focus on settling in, not stressing out.
Pre-Departure Planning
Focus: What to prepare before leaving your home country.
Documents to Carry in Your Hand Luggage
- Passport with valid visa
- I-20 or DS-2019 form
- College acceptance letter
- SEVIS fee receipt
- Proof of funds (bank letter or scholarship)
- Emergency contact sheet (college + family)
- Printed housing contract
- Vaccination records (if required)
Important Tips:
- Always have physical copies of these documents with you in your carry-on, not checked luggage.
- Scan and email copies to yourself or store them securely online.
Financial Preparation
- Open an international debit or credit card that works in the U.S.
- Bring some cash (in USD) for initial expenses like transport, meals, or groceries.
- Know your banking plan: Will you open a U.S. bank account? Do you need a bank letter from your university?
Travel & Arrival Prep
- Book your flight to arrive before orientation.
- Know your destination airport and how to reach your college.
- Arrange airport pickup or know how to use local transport or ride apps.
- Keep accommodation address and contact info handy.
Also Read These:
Best Companies for International Students Renting in the U.S.
Lease Terms Glossary for International Students: Understand Before You Sign
The International Student’s Guide to Renting in the U.S. (Without a SSN)
What Documents Do You Need to Rent as an International Student?
How to Rent an Apartment Without a U.S. SSN or Credit History
International Renters Insurance: What Students Need to Know Before Signing a Lease
International Student Renters FAQ: Real Answers to Your Most Common Questions
What to Pack from Home
Focus: Packing essentials from your home country.
Clothing
- Mix of casual, formal, and weather-appropriate outfits.
- Comfortable shoes, coat, boots if attending in fall or winter.
- At least 7 days’ worth of clothes. Laundry is usually weekly.
- Traditional clothes for cultural events or presentations.
Personal Essentials
- Medications (with prescriptions and translations if needed)
- Basic toiletries for first week (toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, etc.)
- Eyeglasses, contact lenses, solution
- Chargers and adapters
- Personal hygiene products you prefer (some may not be available locally)
Electronics & Accessories
- Laptop with charger
- Headphones
- Plug adapter (check U.S. voltage and plug type)
- Power bank
- Smartphone with roaming or local SIM plan
School Supplies
- Notebook, pens, calculator
- Backpack or tote bag
- Small stationery items
- University paperwork and transcripts (just in case)
Cultural Comfort Items
- Favorite snacks or spices (in sealed, legal packaging)
- Photos of family or home
- Small gifts from your country (good for building friendships or thanking host families)
What Not to Bring:
- Heavy kitchenware
- Large appliances (like kettles or irons—buy locally)
- Bedding sets (sheets and pillows are cheap in U.S. stores)
- Too many textbooks (buy or rent once you arrive)
What to Buy After You Arrive
Focus: Items you can easily purchase in the U.S.
Bedding & Sleep Essentials
- Bed sheets (check your mattress size)
- Pillows and pillowcases
- Blanket or comforter
- Mattress protector
Kitchenware (If You Have a Kitchen)
- Dishware set (plate, bowl, mug)
- Cutlery (fork, spoon, knife)
- Pots, pans, spatula
- Dish soap and sponge
- Water bottle and storage containers
Cleaning Supplies
- Laundry detergent
- Hangers
- Disinfectant wipes or spray
- Small vacuum or broom
- Trash can and trash bags
Toiletries & Bathroom Supplies
- Towels
- Shower caddy
- Bath mat
- Shampoo, soap, toothpaste (available in local stores)
Groceries and Food Basics
- Rice, pasta, eggs, cereal
- Fruit and vegetables
- Milk or milk alternatives
- Snacks and easy meals
Technology
- U.S. SIM card or prepaid phone plan
- Surge protector
- Printer access (most campuses offer it, but ask early)
Where to Buy:
Local big-box stores, dollar stores, campus stores, and online retailers all carry student basics. Some schools even offer discounted “starter kits” or shopping trips during orientation.
Housing & Utilities Setup
Focus: What to expect for housing, lease terms, and utility setup.
Understanding Your Lease
- Make sure you signed a lease or housing agreement.
- Know your move-in date and check-in process.
- Learn key terms: rent due date, deposit, lease length, and renewal.
Shared Housing
- Coordinate chores and shared supplies with roommates.
- Label your food or create a shared system.
Utilities You May Need to Set Up:
- Electricity
- Gas
- Water
- Trash collection
- Internet/Wi-Fi
- Sometimes renters are responsible, sometimes the landlord sets them up. Ask ahead.
Tips:
- Check if utilities are included in rent.
- Ask your landlord or housing office how to activate or transfer service.
- Internet is not always automatic—be prepared to set it up or use campus Wi-Fi until then.
Insurance & Safety Planning
Focus: Health, renters, and emergency preparedness.
Health Insurance
- Most schools require international students to enroll in a university health plan or show proof of acceptable coverage.
- Learn how to access care: campus health center, urgent care, or emergency room.
- Know how to use your insurance: keep your card and understand co-pays or deductibles.
Renters Insurance
- Protects your belongings in case of fire, theft, or damage.
- Some landlords require it. Others do not, but it is still a smart idea.
- International students can find policies even without a U.S. credit score or SSN.
Emergency Contacts and Planning
- Save your local police and fire department numbers.
- Register with your home country’s embassy.
- Set up an ICE (In Case of Emergency) contact on your phone.
- Learn the location of the nearest hospital or urgent care clinic.
First Week Must-Dos
Focus: Tasks to complete after arrival.
On Campus:
- Attend orientation
- Get your student ID
- Set up your university email
- Visit international student services
- Learn campus layout: dining hall, library, registrar, etc.
Local Services:
- Open a U.S. bank account
- Buy a SIM card or phone plan
- Get a public transport card if applicable
- Visit grocery stores and pharmacies to stock up
Legal Requirements:
- Check in with your school’s international student office
- Update your address in SEVIS within 10 days
- Apply for a Social Security Number (only if you have an on-campus job)
Health & Safety:
- Know how to contact campus security
- Save the nearest urgent care or clinic
- Create a basic emergency plan with your roommates
Budgeting & Monthly Expenses
Focus: Understand typical student expenses in the U.S.
Monthly Budget Breakdown (Estimates May Vary)
- Rent: Varies widely by city
- Utilities: $50–$150
- Groceries: $200–$350
- Transportation: $30–$100
- Phone plan: $20–$50
- Health insurance: Depends on school plan
- Personal spending: $100–$200
Tips to Stay on Budget:
- Track all spending for the first month
- Use student discounts wherever available
- Cook at home rather than eating out
- Split costs with roommates
- Avoid impulse online purchases
Social & Cultural Adjustment Tips
Focus: Adjusting to life in the U.S. and finding support.
Making Friends & Getting Involved
- Join student clubs or international student groups
- Attend campus events and mixers
- Sign up for mentorship or buddy programs
Cultural Expectations
- Be on time—punctuality is valued
- Speak up in class—participation is expected
- Use “please” and “thank you” often
- Respect personal space
Homesickness Is Normal
- Call home regularly
- Create routines
- Get involved in activities
- Talk to a counselor if you feel overwhelmed
Support Resources
- Campus counseling or mental health services
- Peer support groups
- Faculty advisors or mentors
- International student office
Final Checklist: Before You Leave for the U.S.
☐ Passport and visa secured
☐ I-20 or DS-2019 printed
☐ Housing confirmed
☐ Flight booked
☐ Travel insurance or health coverage arranged
☐ Emergency contact list printed
☐ Essential documents in carry-on
☐ Financial access prepared (card + cash)
☐ Packing list completed
☐ Airport pickup arranged or planned
☐ Basic understanding of your new neighborhood and campus