The Fall 2026 study abroad season is approaching. Preparing your luggage for the US is a long way with hundreds of things to arrange, but there is an important rule that every new student should remember: All important documents must be in Carry-on baggage.
Why is that? When you arrive at an international airport in the United States, you will have to go through the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) immigration area. before is allowed to go to the conveyor area to collect checked baggage. If you leave all your papers in the checked baggage, you will have nothing to show to the CBP officer and risk great trouble.
To help you have a smooth entry journey, below is a detailed list of the documents Must fit in a backpack or handbag of yours.
1. Passport & F-1 Visa
Here is the most basic and important "ticket of passage":
- Passport Number: Must remain valid for at least 6 months from the date you plan to enter the United States. Please check the status of your passport, making sure it is not torn, wet or damaged.
- F-1 student visa: Passport is securely stamped inside. Please double check the personal information on the visa (Full name, date of birth, school name) to make sure there are no mistakes from the Embassy/Consulate.
2. Form Form I-20 (Form I-20) Copy
A Form I-20 is a certificate of eligibility for nonimmigrant student status issued by a U.S. university.
- Required Paper Printings: The CBP officer will check the actual print of the I-20, not accepting it displayed on a phone or tablet screen.
- Signature: Make sure you have signed and specified the date at the bottom of page 1 (item Student Attestation). If under 18 years old, parents or legal guardians must sign together.
- Accurate information: Make sure the SEVIS ID on your I-20 matches the one on your Visa F-1.
3. Confirm SEVIS Fee Receipt I-901
This is a receipt confirming that you have completed the SEVIS fee payment to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
- Pre-printed invoice/confirmation of payment from FMJfee.com system.
- Place this file immediately after your Form I-20 for easy reference.
4. School Admission Letter (Offer Letter / Acceptance Letter)
Bring a printed official letter of admission from a U.S. university/college. This letter helps to prove your clear entry purpose is to study at a licensed institution.
5. Financial Proof Documents
Even if you have already gone through the visa interview, the CBP officer at the border checkpoint has the right to re-check your financial capacity to make sure you are able to cover the cost of studying and living in the United States. You should bring:
- Confirmation of scholarships or financial aid from the school (if any).
- Savings book, confirmation of bank account balance (English or notarized translation).
- Declaration/Letter of commitment to financial support from parents (if using family finances).
6. Where to Stay & Emergency Contacts in the US
Avoid passive cases when declaring entry information or when CBP officers ask for details:
- Address of residence: Address the dormitory, private house, or homestay you'll be staying at for the first time.
- Contact details: The phone number and email of the Designated School Official (DSO) at your school, or the person who picked you up at the airport.
7. Electronics & Charging Standby
- Mobile phone: Always make sure your phone is full of battery before landing so as to timely call a relative or pickup person.
- Backup Charger: According to international aviation safety regulations, backup charging Must be in carry-on baggageIt is strictly forbidden to leave in checked baggage.
💡 tips to help you feel more secure
- Digital Backup: Take a photo and scan all of the documents, save them to Google Drive, iCloud or phone memory so that you can open them for inspection at any time.
- Usage of Transparent Filing Bag: Gather all documents in a folder (Folder/Organizer) with zippers to avoid dropping or misplaced during the security checkpoint.
- Keep a calm, confident attitude: When you check in at the CBP checkpoint, answer questions honestly, concisely, and confidently.
⚠️ Important Notes from CBP: The CBP officer at the checkpoint will make the final decision about whether or not you are allowed to enter the United States. Having the proper documentation prepared will help the process go quickly and smoothly!
Wishing all new students in Fall 2026 have a safe flight and start the journey to study in the United States of America so much luck!
🌸 Hotline☎️: 0936.77.33.86
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