10 Things Every Student and Exchange Visitor Must Know for U.S. Admission
Millions of foreign nationals visit the United States on a yearly basis. Records indicate that number is continually on the rise in spite of economic problems. Hundreds of thousands of those visitors come to the U.S. either as J-1 exchange visitors or F-1 foreign students. Due to the concern regarding security threats, security measures have been increased at all ports of entry around the country. As a result, it is imperative for all prospective J-1 exchange visitors and F-1 students to make sure they are aware of critical steps that must be taken to ensure a smooth transition when entering the United States.

1. First, it is important to make sure you plan carefully and well ahead of time. Make sure you have a list of everything you will need and have your bags packed in advance.
2. It is also important to take the time to confirm the validity of your passport before you book your trip to the United States. Your passport must be valid for entry into the U.S. Also, it must be valid for a minimum of six months past the date of your intended stay in the United States.
3. You should also check your nonimmigrant visa classification prior to traveling. Be sure that the nonimmigrant visa that is stamped inside your passport is an accurate reflection of your personal information, including your name, date of birth and your country of birth. It should also contain the correct visa classification.
4. Another important step is confirming your visa validity. Once you have confirmed that your passport is not expired and that your visa, either J-1 or F-1, has the correct information, your next step is to confirm that your visa is valid for you to gain entry into the United States.
5. Also, verify all other information on your visa. If your J-1 or F-1 visa states the name of the university or institution you will attend or if it identifies the specific exchange program you must verify that all information is accurate. If you do notice any discrepancies or errors, be sure to consult the Consulate or U.S. Embassy so that you can acquire a new visa.
6. Be sure to plan your travel dates with care. If this is the first time you will be traveling to the United States as J-1 exchange visitor or F-1 student, this is particularly important. Foreign nationals who enter the U.S. for the first time under either a F-1 or J-1 visa classification will only be admitted for a period of up to 30 days prior to the start date of their program.
7. Make sure you carry all important documents on you while traveling. Do not make the mistake of checking any important documents in your baggage. If your baggage should be delayed or lost you will not have the documents available when you need them to show to the Customs and Border Protection Officer. As a result, you may not be allowed to enter the U.S. Documents that you should carry on you include your passport, your SEVIS form(s), evidence of financial resources, your evidence of your visitor status (transcripts or tuition receipts) and the name and contact information for your Responsible Officer or Designated School Official at your intended program or school. It is also a good idea to carry a pen.
8. You should also be aware that you will need to hand your immigration documents to the officer when you arrive at the port of entry to the United States. If the consular officer has sealed your immigration documents inside an envelope and attached it to your passport, do not open the envelope. The Customs and Border Protection Officer will open it when you arrive at the port of entry.
9. If asked, you will need to provide the purpose of your visit to the United States. You may also be asked about your final destination. Make sure to tell the CBP officer that you are going to be a J-1 exchange visitor or F-1 student. You should also be able to provide the name of your exchange visitor program or the address of your school.
10. If you will be traveling by air, the flight attendant may distribute Customs Declaration Forms as well as an Arrival-Departure Record for immigration purposes. Be sure to complete these forms while you are in the air to avoid any delays when you arrive at Customs.