Travel Information
When to Arrive
You may not arrive more than 30 days before the program start date listed on your I-20 or DS-2019. You should not plan on arriving until you are able to move into on-campus housing, your apartment, etc. Please be aware that OISS cannot assist with housing accommodations for students who arrive early. You must be physically on campus for the SEVIS Check-In/Orientation, this will typically always be on the Friday before the start of classes.
If You Cannot Arrive Before Classes Start
Per SEVP, all F-1/J-1 students should enter the U.S. before the program start date. If you are unable to arrive on campus before the program start date listed on your I-20/DS-2019 you should work with International Admissions to defer your start date to a future term.
Where to Arrive and Getting to Campus
Arrive at Detroit Metropolitan Airport. The airport is located in Romulus, Michigan, only a car ride away from Ypsilanti and EMU. Shuttle, taxi and car rentals are available at the airport. An Uber/Lyft or taxi might be the most convenient method of transportation from the airport to Ypsilanti. Please note that EMU does not currently offer pick up services from the airport upon your arrival.
Luggage Advice
Label all of your luggage with your home country address and your US address. Various items, such as foods and medicines are not allowed in the U.S. For more information on restricted items, visit the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Know Before You Visit website.
How Much Money You Should Bring
Exchange money at the airport or before you arrive. We suggest you obtain $100 in US dollars and coins. This can be used for cab rides, bus fares, tips, food and baggage carts. Exchange more if you are planning on staying in a hotel.
- Automatic Teller Machines (ATM) are widely available
- Open a local bank account as soon as possible to keep your money safe
If you are bringing more than $10,000 USD in any form (cash, bank draft, or traveler's checks) you must declare it to US Customs on a FinCen 105 Form. Print this form. You will not be charged for bringing in these funds. Do not pack any money or traveler's checks in your luggage; it may be lost or stolen. Keep all money and traveler's checks with you at all times.
Documents Received Upon Arrival
On your flight you will receive a Customs Declaration Form (6059B) and information regarding the electronic I-94 form. Complete these forms before you land. Be sure to print your name, family name (last name), date of birth and country of citizenship exactly as shown in your passport. List your US address on the forms. Do not list the school's address or your home country address. Remember, in the United States the date is written as month/day/year. If you have questions while completing the following forms, please ask a flight attendant for assistance.
The Immigration Process
Please be polite and patient. You must state your reason for entering the country and provide information about your final destination. Tell the immigration officer you are studying in the United States. Be prepared to provide the name and address of the Eastern Michigan University, if asked. The immigration officers may ask the purpose of your stay and about the items on your entry documents (such as proof of funds). Have your documents ready. You will need:
- Passport valid for at least six months beyond the date of arrival
- F or J valid visa
- I-20 or DS-2019. Do not enter the US on another school's I-20 or DS-2019 if you are going to study at EMU.
- CF-6059 Customs Declaration Form
- Evidence of Financial Support