Traveling as an International Student

Traveling to the US for the first time:

  • When coming to the US to begin a program at Fuller for the first time you may be asked to present the following documents at the port of entry: 
      • I-20 Certificate of Eligibility (F-1) or DS-2019 Certificate of Eligibility (J-1) 
      • Valid student visa and applicable dependant visas 
      • Valid passport for each member of your family traveling with you 
      • Declaration of Financial Support – be prepared to show evidence of your financial ability to support yourself while you are in the US. The immigration officer may want to see the estimated cost sheet along with your bank statements/declaration of financial support to determine whether or not you have sufficient funding to complete your studies in the US.  
    • After the immigration officer grants you entry to the US he/she will issue you an I-94 Arrival/Departure Card that will be attached to your visa. The I-94 will determine the maximum length of your stay in the US. Typically, the I-94 will say “D/S” meaning “Duration of Status” which will allow you to stay in the US as long as needed to complete your program provided you remain in status for the duration of your program. 
    • Arrange housing ahead of time. If you do not have Housing available before coming to the US, it is advisable to reserve a hotel or a room at the Fuller Guest Center. 
    • Arrange transportation from the airport to Fuller. The ISO offer airport shuttle service from Los Angeles International Airport, click here for more info. 
    • Meet with your international advisor as soon as you arrive to Fuller to ensure that your arrival gets reported to SEVIS. 

    Fore more detailed information download the Port of Entry Fact Sheet:  

     

    Leaving the Country on an F-1 or J-1 visa

    If you plan to travel abroad while you are in school, you will need a travel validation signature on your I-20 or DS-2019 from your International Advisor. Travel signatures are valid for 6 months but we recommend meeting with your International Advisor each time you plan to leave the country.

    Your student visa functions as your entry document. If your visa is expired or is about to expire, you may not be able to enter back into the US without first renewing your visa.

    Always remember to carry your Passport, Visa, and I-20/DS-2019 whenever you leave the US. It is advisable to also bring your Declaration of Financial Support and a copy of your current transcripts.

    When you return to Fuller, please remember to give your International Advisor a copy of your new I-94.

    Travel within the US

    Travel within the US is typically hassle-free for international students in regards to immigration status. However, it is still a good idea to carry your passport, visa, I-20, Declaration of Financial support, and current transcripts with you should any problems arise. 

    Travel During OPT/CPT

    If you plan to travel during your OPT or CPT you must meet with International Advisor first.

    Traveling on an Expired Visa

    If your visa is expired and you leave the country, you will most likely not be able to reenter on the same visa. You will need to renew your visa before returning. Please meet with your International Advisor before you leave to discuss your eligibility and the required documentation for renewing your visa.