It is important that you prepare well in advance for your trip to the U.S. and for your studies at Widener University. The following information will help you in this process. Please read all sections thoroughly so that you do not miss important paperwork or deadlines.
Pre-Arrival Guides
Please review the appropriate Pre-Arrival and Orientation Guide for F-1 students or J-1 exchange visitors. International Student Services created these guides to assist in your preparation for arrival to Widener University and to ease your transition to a new culture.
F-1 Pre-Arrival and Orientation Guide J-1 Pre-Arrival and Orientation Guide
Finances & Other Expenses
In addition to the estimated cost of tuition, fees, books/supplies, medical insurance, and living expenses noted on your I-20 or DS-2019, you will want to bring money for the following expenses that you may incur upon your arrival:
- Bedding, bath supplies, kitchen supplies, personal items, etc. for your residence hall or apartment, if you do not choose to order these supplies in advance.
- First and last month's rent and security deposit are typically required for students renting an apartment. The cost for this can vary but plan on $1,200 USD minimum.
- Emergency cash for unexpected expenses, minimum $300 USD.
If you are planning to pay your tuition by wire transfer, we recommend you do so in advance as your registration will be placed on hold if your payment has not been completed at the time of registration. The amount for the wire transfer should be approximately half the amount listed on the I-20 or DS-2019. For students living off campus: do not include the amount for living expenses. Note that the amount on your I-20 is for the whole year (DS-2019s include the amount for the entire program), and includes living expenses and other fees which may not be due directly to the university.
The Office of the Bursar can assist with wire transfers.
Entering the U.S.
Do not book your plane ticket until you have received your visa. Keep in mind that you can legally arrive in the U.S. up to 30 days before the start date on your I-20/DS-2019; however, we do not recommend that you arrive early unless you have made prior arrangements. Widener cannot provide housing or airport pick-ups prior to orientation.
Carry your passport, visa, I-20/DS-2019, and I-901 receipt with you when you board the plane. Do no place these items in checked baggage. You will not be allowed to board the plane if you do not have all required immigration documentation with you.
At the port of entry, you will speak with a Customs and Border Protection Officer who will examine your documents and stamp your passport. If you have any problems at the port of entry, please contact ISS during regular business hours at 610-499-4498 or 610-499-4472 or Campus Safety after hours and on weekends at 610-499-4200. If the immigration officer has questions, provide the officer with these numbers to call. Keep all your immigration documents available, because you will need to present them to ISS at orientation.