Moving to a new city or country can be quite a shock to the system. In many ways you might find it easy to adapt to life in the U.S., but there are some things that are likely to be very different.
Health
In an emergency, you can call the emergency number 911 from any phone and request the help of emergency paramedics. For the majority of international students, the best place to find treatment is the Student Health Center at your university. The medical professionals here are specially trained to provide treatment and assistance. If you require specialized medical care, the Student Health Center will refer you to an appropriate doctor or medical provider.
In the U.S., it is the individual’s responsibility to manage their own healthcare, not the government’s, so most people buy health insurance policies for themselves and their families. Universities usually require international students to purchase medical insurance for the duration of their studies. International students often must prove their health insurance policies are sufficient before being able to enroll in classes.
Cost
The Cost of Living Calculator has been developed to help you compare the cost of living between two U.S. cities.
Read more about living costs in the U.S. here.
You might find it worthwhile checking out the costs of common items of clothes and food to get a feel for how much you might need to budget.
Visas and immigration
For students and visitors intending to spend time in the U.S., the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services’ website offers useful guidance on visas, as well as a range of downloadable application forms and information packs. To see a video about applying for a student visa, click here.
Transport
U.S. towns and cities are linked by a wide-ranging system of highways and interstates, and there are efficient buses (including Greyhound) and train services to all parts of the country. Frequent flights also connect major U.S. cities with most international destinations.
If you are thinking about driving while you are in the U.S., you need to be aware of the many laws and regulations you will need to follow. For more information check out this handy guide to driving in the U.S.
Money
Before coming to the U.S., familiarize yourself with procedures for transferring funds from your home country. Upon arrival be prepared to pay your initial expenses for tuition, room and board, books, health insurance and personal items. There are many banks and savings associations to choose from. Shortly after your arrival, you will want to select a bank and open a checking or savings account. For safety reasons you should carry any large sums of money ($50 or more) in the form of draft or traveler's checks. However, plan to carry some change for smaller items and phone calls.
You can transfer money from your home country to a U.S. bank account. If you are planning on using your debit or credit cards while you are in the U.S., it is also a good idea to let your bank know.
Working in the U.S.
There are many opportunities for you to earn extra money while in the U.S., both during your studies and after graduation. Depending upon your visa, special rules for international students make it possible to work up to 20 hours per week on campus during term-time, and full-time during vacations. You can also apply for curricular practical training and optional practical training which allow you to work in the U.S. in a field related to your major, either during your studies or after graduation. Both of these opportunities allow you to gain invaluable experience before returning home.
Life and culture
When you come to the U.S. you will notice a difference in the way people dress, greet each other, practice religion and express themselves. It is a good idea to prepare yourself for cultural differences by learning as much as you can about the U.S. before you leave. This useful video from Lionsgate Educational Video Series is a good example.
For one student’s perspective, click here.
Check out this cool video about overcoming culture shock here.