Studying in the United States: the special departure checklist
Studying in the USA is an unforgettable experience, but it also requires solid preparation!
Visa, university, housing, telephone, insurance… there are many elements to anticipate to ensure a stress-free arrival.
To help you tick all the boxes before the big departure, here’s THE complete checklist for French students flying off to the American dream!
By the way, we’ve also included our top tips for staying connected as soon as you land just below.
10-step checklist for studying in the United States
- Valid passport and student visa
Check that your passport is up to date, and start applying for your F-1 or J-1 visa. - Admission letter from the university
Get your Form I-20 after you’ve been accepted to an American university. - Financial proof
Prepare bank statements and certificates to prove your ability to finance your studies. - International Health Insurance
Take out health insurance tailored to the requirements of your establishment. - Putting together your application
Finalize your application: transcripts, cover letter, TOEFL/SAT tests. - Accommodation search and booking
Choose between halls of residence, flatshare or host family. - Budget and financing
Estimate your costs (tuition, accommodation, transport) and look for scholarships. - Digital preparation
Order your USA SIM card, unlock your phone, download useful apps. - Administrative preparation
Make copies of your documents, organize your papers and your trip. - Anticipate your cultural integration
Find out about campus life and prepare yourself for cultural differences.
Documents you need to study in the United States
Valid passport and student visa (F-1 or J-1)
First of all, you’ll need a valid passport and a student visa.
The most common is the F-1 visa for university programs or language stays.
The procedure is lengthy: DS-160 form, payment of SEVIS fees, interview at the embassy… It’s best to apply 3 to 6 months before the start of the school year!
Letter of admission from your American university
Your admission must be validated by your American school (Form I-20 for the F-1 visa).
This document proves that you have been accepted and registered.
Financial statements
The U.S. requires you to prove that you have the means to finance your stay (tuition + living expenses).
Prepare recent bank statements and scholarship certificates if you have them.
International health insurance
Most American universities require specific health insurance.
Some require their own policy, others let you choose your own international student insurance.
Back to university: the essentials
Apply early
The admissions process in the USA starts very early (sometimes a year before!).
For the start of the school year in September, applications must often be sent in between November and January.
Putting together an admission file
Your file must include :
- Transcripts ;
- Letter(s) of recommendation ;
- Personal statement;
- Standardized test scores (e.g. TOEFL, SAT, ACT).
Pass language tests and standardized exams
To get into an American university, a good level of English is essential:
- TOEFL or IELTS for language.
- SAT or ACT depending on your level and school.
Managing your student budget in the USA
Tuition fees and cost of living
Tuition fees vary according to the type of school:
- Community Colleges: more affordable (around $8,000 to $12,000/year).
- Private universities: sometimes $30,000 to $50,000/year.
Add: housing, transportation, food, health insurance… The cost of living is high in some cities, such as New York and San Francisco.
Scholarships and financial aid
Good news: scholarships are available for international students!
Find out more directly from universities, the Fulbright Program, or certain Franco-American associations.
Finding student housing in the United States
Living on campus (student residences)
University residences (“dorms”) are often available for the first year.
A practical way to integrate quickly!
Off-campus options
You can also look for a shared apartment or a host family.
Warning: in the USA, a credit history is often required to rent, which is not easy for a French student.
Staying connected even after you've left: phone and Internet
Cell phone and Internet: a must
As soon as you arrive, you’ll need a U.S. number to open a bank account, order an Uber or sign up for campus activities.
So make sure you choose a package that lets you switch between your own number and the American one. Not all prepaid packages offer this option!
At SIM USA you can enjoy an all-in-one package. Test your needs right now here.
Useful applications to download
The most useful apps to have in your phone as soon as you arrive:
- Uber / Lyft (transportation);
- Google Maps Offline (internet-free navigation) ;
- Venmo / Cash App (payments between friends) ;
- University apps (schedule, grades, campus info).
If you would like to know more about all the telephone/internet options available to you : this article for you!
5 things to remember before you leave!
- US power adapter (different plugs) ;
- External battery for long journeys ;
- Photocopies of all your identity documents ;
- A digital version of the most important documents: reservations, plane tickets, etc.
- American money;
- Your insurance!
Adapting to life and study in the USA
Understanding American university culture
Class participation, student life, university sports… The American campus is a world apart!
And for good reason, the model commonly followed is “work hard, play hard”. Places are hard to come by (both financially and selectively) at good universities. Many students also have jobs on the side.
Cultural and social experience
Prepare yourself for a positive culture shock: diversity, dynamism, friendliness… but also different rules and high expectations. The USA has a very particular way of doing things. This is also true of regional particularities.
Studying in the United States is an incredible experience, but one that requires serious preparation.
By following this checklist, you’re putting all the chances on your side for a successful American adventure.
And to keep in touch with your family and university as soon as you arrive, don’t forget to prepare your mobile connection. Do you have any questions? We answer!
