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International students carry flags through the arches

United States Welcome Guide - Graduate Students

Coming to the U.S.

Welcome to the United States! We’re here to help you know what to pack and where to shop if it’s your first time living in the U.S.

Recommended Packing List

  • What to Bring in Your Carry-On
  • What to Bring in Your Suitcase
  • What to Leave at Home
  • Packing List
  • What to Bring in Your Carry-On

    • Immigration documents including your I-20/DS-2019, Visa and Passport
    • Cash – Enough for your first few days here in the U.S.
    • Clothing and medication – enough for a few days in case your luggage gets lost or delayed in transit
    • Personal electronics, like your laptop computer, mobile phone or other small devices.
    • Emergency contacts

    What to Bring in Your Suitcase

    • Herbs and spices from home. You may not be able to buy certain items here in the U.S.
    • Traditional clothing or small items from your home country. There are a few events throughout the year on campus that allow for you to teach others about your home country and culture and it is always nice to have a few items to show others.
    • A power adapter. The electricity voltage here in the U.S. is . You may want to buy an adapter if you plan on bringing an electrical appliance from home.

    What to Leave at Home

    • A large amount of everyday items. There are many different stores that you can get items at. If you have any questions, please reach out to OISS and we will be happy to help you!
    • Meat. U.S. customs is very strict. See a .

    Packing List

    If you would like an example of a packing list, here's a document we created for you! Feel free to print it and add your own items.

    What to Bring in Your Carry-On

    What to Bring in Your Carry-On

    • Immigration documents including your I-20/DS-2019, Visa and Passport
    • Cash – Enough for your first few days here in the U.S.
    • Clothing and medication – enough for a few days in case your luggage gets lost or delayed in transit
    • Personal electronics, like your laptop computer, mobile phone or other small devices.
    • Emergency contacts

    What to Bring in Your Suitcase

    What to Bring in Your Suitcase

    • Herbs and spices from home. You may not be able to buy certain items here in the U.S.
    • Traditional clothing or small items from your home country. There are a few events throughout the year on campus that allow for you to teach others about your home country and culture and it is always nice to have a few items to show others.
    • A power adapter. The electricity voltage here in the U.S. is . You may want to buy an adapter if you plan on bringing an electrical appliance from home.

    What to Leave at Home

    What to Leave at Home

    • A large amount of everyday items. There are many different stores that you can get items at. If you have any questions, please reach out to OISS and we will be happy to help you!
    • Meat. U.S. customs is very strict. See a .

    Packing List

    Packing List

    If you would like an example of a packing list, here's a document we created for you! Feel free to print it and add your own items.

    Students enjoy a sunny day on campus

    Essential Services

    Everything you’ll need to know from getting your U.S. plan, to stores to shop at, and more!