From Dreams to Departure: What Every Indian Student Must Do After Landing in the U.S.

The first landing in the United States can be the most exciting and at the same time a responsibility. The trip evolves into a wmhirlwind of excitement of the first day in a foreign country to the reality of the first day in a new country.

Indian students preparing to study in USA for Indian students often feel overwhelmed during the first few days because everything is new, from immigration paperwork to setting up essentials like banking and mobile service.

This human written guide breaks down every step Indian students should follow once they land in America. Consider it your zero scroll handbook that covers everything in detail.

Make It Happen Now

Immigration and Airport Essentials

Your first experience in the USA begins at the port of entry. Immigration checks are strict but systematic.

Documents Officers Commonly Ask For

• Passport with valid US visa
• I-20 form
• SEVIS fee receipt
• University admission letter
• Proof of funds
• Accommodation address

CBP Inspection Tips

• Keep all documents in hand, not in checked baggage.
• Answer in short, clear sentences.
• Provide your university address and any on campus housing details.

Once cleared, you collect baggage, pass through customs and officially enter the United States. That first moment outside the airport is when your student journey truly starts.

Finding Temporary and Long Term Housing

Many students arriving to study in the United States opt for temporary housing until they sign a long term lease.

Temporary Stay Options

• University dorms
• Airbnb
• Indian student senior groups
• International student guest housing

Long Term Housing Tips

• Analyze commute distance
• Check safety score of the neighborhood
• Ask seniors about utility charges
• Avoid leases longer than 12 months in your first year

Setting Up Your Mobile, Banking and Payments

Within 24 hours of arriving, set up your communication and financial systems so you can function smoothly.

Mobile SIM Options

Popular carriers include:

• Mint Mobile
• T Mobile
• AT&T
• Verizon

Choose a prepaid option first. Monthly bills are easier to track when you are new.

Opening a Bank Account

Banks usually recommended for international students include:

• Bank of America
• Chase
• Wells Fargo
• Credit unions near your campus

Opening a student account requires:

• Passport
• I 20
• Local address
• University ID

Students should also install payment apps like Venmo, Cash App, and Zelle to make daily transactions easier.

Managing University Requirements

Once you arrive on campus, complete mandatory onboarding steps.

Important Tasks

• Pay a visit to the International Student Office.
• Be present at orientation meetings.
• Send immigration documents.
• Finally register the course.
• Pick up student ID

You can rely on the International Student Office that provides assistance in the case of the problems with your visa status, CPT, OPT, or academic papers.

Understanding Health Insurance and Medical Systems

Healthcare in the USA is expensive and structured differently from India. Every student must understand how insurance works.

Why Health Insurance Matters

• Reduces high medical costs
• Required by universities
• Mandatory to maintain visa status in many institutions

Campus Health Center

Majority of universities in the US have an on campus clinic where basic consultation is done at minimal cost. The price is increased in case of specialists or in emergency care, and, therefore, check your plan thoroughly.

Social Security Number and Work Rules

Students planning to work on campus must apply for a Social Security Number.

SSN Requirements

• Job offer letter
• Passport
• I 20 with employment authorization
• I 94 arrival record

Work Limits

• Up to 20 hours per week on campus during semesters
• Full time during breaks
• Off campus work allowed only under CPT or OPT

Cost of Living in USA

The cost of living in USA varies widely depending on the city. Indian students usually budget for:

Major Monthly Expenses

• Rent
• Groceries
• Phone and WiFi
• Transportation
• Utilities
• Health insurance

Cities like New York, Boston and San Francisco are expensive, while Dallas, Phoenix and

Get Help With Your Expenses

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