Preparing for Your Arrival

Immigration

The Office of International Services (OIS) can assist students through the process of applying for a student visa. After students receive their initial acceptance from the Office of International Admissions, they will receive an email from the Office of International Services Team letting them know it is time to login to iStart – USF's international student portal – and start the GloBull Start Process.

All new international students must use iStart to complete the Glo-Bull Start checklist. The Glo-Bull Start checklist is designed to guide students through all of the immigration-related tasks they must complete as a new international student at USF.

Students are encouraged to bookmark the iStart webpage, because they will continue to use it for various tasks while they are enrolled at USF.

Students may contact the Office of International Services via their website or at globullstart@usf.edu if they have any questions about iStart.  

Immigration at the Airport

When students arrive to the United States, an immigration officer at the airport will inspect their passport, visa, immigration documents (e.g., I-20/DS-2019), admissions documents from USF, and letters indicating how they will be financially supported when living in the United States. 

Students should keep their travel documents in a place that is easily available. They should not pack this information away in their luggage. 

The I-94 record is very important because it shows students their admission status. After arriving to the United States, students will be able to access their I-94 admissions record and learn more on the U.S. Customs and Border Patrol's I94 official website.
 
The customs officials may inspect international baggage coming in to the United States for illegal materials. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) canines will sometimes sniff baggage for illegal drugs or plants. Additionally, electronic devices, such as smartphones, tablets and laptops, may be opened/unlocked and searched by these officials. 
 
Students should contact their airline or travel agency to learn about restrictions for their carry-on luggage. A list of Prohibited and Restricted Items is available from the U.S. Customs and Border Patrol Office.