Travel and Immigration

What you need to know before traveling to the U.S.

Let's talk about what you need to do to prepare for your trip to study at ASU's premiere English program, Global Launch! There are a few things you need to take care of before you leave home, like packing your luggage, booking your flight, and securing your immigration documents.

Pack like a Pro

Packing for a trip can sometimes feel like a puzzling challenge, but we've got your back! Check out our Packing List for suggestions to be fully prepared for your adventures in Arizona!

What do I need to bring with me to Arizona?
Phoenix is the 5th largest city in the United States, and has many restaurants and stores for you to purchase items like toothpaste, food and school supplies
We encourage all Global Launch students to pack the following to bring with them:
- Backpack
- Clothing
- Personal hygiene products
- Umbrella
- Sunscreen
- Hat
- Insulated Water bottle, such as a Hydro Flask
- Laptop or portable computer
- Electrical plug adapters
- Cell phone and charger
- Towels
- Personal medication and prescriptions
- Glasses, contact lenses, and other prescriptions
- Bathing suits
- Hair care products (blow dryers, straighteners, etc.)
- Important documents (passport, visa, plane tickets, I-20, immunization records)
- Photocopies of your passport in case of an emergency
- Contact number for homestay or contact in Arizona
- Snacks for travel and emergencies
- Comfortable shoes to walk in, tennis shoes and sandals
- $300 in local currency (it is not safe to travel with more than this amount in cash)
- Sunglasses
- Journal/Diary
- Bed linens if applicable
Bring these items with you in your carry-on (not in your checked luggage) when you travel to the U.S.:
- Your Passport and visa
- Global Launch SEVIS Form I-20 and Form I-901 (F-1 students only). Form I-901 is your SEVIS payment receipt.
- Financial support documents
- Your address in Arizona
- Global Launch phone number and address:
  P. +1(480) 965-2376
  Global Launch,
  Arizona State University
  Creativity Commons (CRTVC) #350
  South 501 E. Orange St.
  Tempe, AZ 85287-9701
- For any additional questions, please email globallaunch@asu.edu
(click on the image above for a downloadable PDF checklist)
Booking your flight

Now it's time to book your flight! To ensure a smooth journey, make sure you book your flight to Phoenix, Arizona at least 2-3 months before your desired arrival date. And remember, your arrival date in the U.S. should be no more than 30 days before the start date listed on your SEVIS I-20.
Organizing your immigration documents

When you arrive to the U.S., you will provide your immigration documents at a U.S. Port of Entry at the airport.

Remember the visa granted outside the U.S. serves as your “key” to open the door to the United States. You will need this in addition to other documents that reflect your maintenance of status in the U.S. (“Form I-20” for F-1 visa holders or “DS-2019” for J-1 visa holders).

Make sure to bring the following documents with you on the plane (not in your checked luggage) when you travel to the U.S. for the very first time:
- Passport - If your passport is expiring soon, contact your embassy early to renew it up to 6 months before the expiration date.
- Visa - After a successful application outside the U.S., your visa will be placed inside your passport prior to travel. This allows you to enter the United States.
- Immigration form - Document type varies based on visa type (Form I-20 for F-1 visa holders and DS-2019 for J-1 visa holders).

Preparing to study English in the United States may require some attention to detail, but trust us, it's all worth it! You're about to have an unforgettable time, immerse yourself in U.S. language and culture and make lifelong memories. Stay positive, embrace new experiences, and seize every opportunity that comes your way.

Get ready for an epic adventure. We can't wait to welcome you with open arms in the vibrant city of Phoenix, Arizona! Good luck, and prepare for an incredible journey of growth and discovery!