U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) is committed to facilitating your stay in the United States while you take advantage of our nation’s academic, educational and cultural offerings. To enhance security without slowing legitimate travel, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has instituted some changes in U.S. entry and exit procedures. Careful planning and preparation by international students can ensure that any delay based on these procedures is minimal.

Plan Your Arrival

You may be refused entry into the United States if you attempt to arrive more than 30 days before the program start date listed on your SEVIS I-20 form.

Always Hand-Carry Your Documents

Do not check the following documents in your baggage. If your baggage is lost or delayed, you will be unable to present the documents at your port of entry. As a result, you may not be able to enter the United States.

  • Your passport, valid for at least six months beyond the date of your expected stay;
  • SEVIS Form I-20.

In addition, it is strongly recommended that you also hand carry the following documentation:

  • Evidence of financial resources
  • Evidence of student status, such as acceptance letter, recent tuition receipts and/or transcripts
  • Paper receipt for the SEVIS fee, Form I-797
  • Name and contact information for your Designated School Official (DSO). For comprehensive information on procedures for traveling and arriving in the United States, visit Study in the States.

Complete Your Entry Paperwork

If Arriving By Air: Flight attendants will distribute Customs Declaration Form (CF-6059). This must be completed prior to landing.

If Arriving By Land or Sea: The CBP Officer at the port of entry will provide the Customs Declaration Form (CF-6059) to be filled out upon your arrival.

As You Arrive at the Port of Entry

Proceed to the terminal area for arriving passengers. Have the following documents available for presentation: your passport; SEVIS Form (I-20); and Customs Declaration Form (CF-6059).

All visitors entering the United States must state their reason for wishing to enter the country. You will also be asked to provide information about your final destination. It is important that you tell the CBP Officer that you will be a student. Be prepared to include the name and address of the school program where you will enroll/participate. Once your inspection is successfully completed, the inspecting officer will:

Stamp your passport for duration of status (“D/S”).

Following Admission into the United States

Students should report to their school within 30 days of the date that appears on the SEVIS I-20 form to register for courses or to validate their intended participation. Failure to do so may result in serious consequences.

Office of Admissions International Student Coordinators:

PDSO: Allison Canning (acanning@tcl.edu)
DSO (New River Campus): admissions@tcl.edu