Enter the U.S. and Check In with OISS
You may enter the United States no earlier than 30 days prior to the start date of your academic program. Please the "Earliest Admission Date" under the Program of Study section on page 1 of your I-20.
When you arrive in the U.S., the Customs & Border Protection (CBP) officer will ask to see your passport, F-1 visa stamp (for everyone except citizens of Canada), form I-20, proof of I-901 SEVIS fee payment, and financial documentation. The CBP officer will inspect your documents and then return them to you.
After arriving in the U.S., you must complete the OISS Check-In (required to register your F-1 immigration record at UNCW) and attend the OISS International Student Orientation. More details are available on the F-1 Planning Your Arrival website.