Student Life & Culture in USA

Phone & Internet

• Get a prepaid SIM/eSIM on day 1–2 (bring an unlocked phone). Short-term plans are perfect till you pick a long-term plan.

Immigration & University Check-ins

• Retrieve your I-94 entry record online and save a PDF copy for your files.
• Complete international student check-in with your university so your SEVIS record is set to Active (you’ll need this for jobs, SSN, DMV, etc.).

Banking

• Open a student checking account. Most banks accept a passport + I-20 + I-94 + proof of address; SSN is usually not required for basic accounts.

SSN vs ITIN (Know the difference)

• F-1 students can apply for a Social Security Number (SSN) only if you have authorized employment (on-campus, CPT, or OPT). Otherwise, you generally don’t need an SSN to study.
• Timing tip: Wait ~10 days after U.S. entry and ensure your SEVIS is Active before visiting the SSA office, to allow government systems to update.
• ITIN is a tax ID used only for tax purposes if you’re not eligible for an SSN.

Health Insurance

• F-1: No federal mandate, but most universities require health insurance (often via a Student Health Insurance Plan).
• J-1: Insurance is mandatory by law (min. $100,000 medical/illness, $50,000 evacuation, $25,000 repatriation; deductible ≤ $500).

Safety Numbers to Save

• 911 – Police/Fire/Ambulance (emergency only).
• 988 – Mental health & suicide crisis lifeline (call/text/chat).
• 211 – Local social & community services (housing, food, legal help).