All F-1 and J-1 students (except Canadians) must have a valid F-1 or J-1 visa stamp in their passports before entering the U.S. When traveling to the U.S., you should present the following documents to the admitting U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer:
- Your Cal Poly Humboldt Form I-20 or DS-2019
- Your passport valid for at least six months beyond the date of admission
- Your valid visa stamp in your passport
The immigration officer will stamp your I-20 or DS-2019 and provide you with an electronic Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record.
Using a valid F-1 or J-1 visa stamp and Form I-20 or DS-2019, you may enter the U.S. up to 30 days before the start date indicated on your I-20 or DS-2019 (see section 5 of your I-20 or box 3 of your DS-2019). You may not enter the U.S. in F-1 or J-1 status more than 30 days before your program start date. (Canadians and students from contiguous islands that are traveling without a visa stamp will be required to show the SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) fee payment receipt in addition to their I-20 or DS-2019.)
More information on entering the U.S. and maintaining your status, including Forms I-94 and visas is available in the section of the site relating to your specific status.
More information on getting to Arcata and coming to Cal Poly Humboldt is available on our Home page.
