Pre-arrival Information

Here are a few things that you should know before you arrive:

• Check out the Study in the States website. It’s an excellent resource for you as an international student.
• Apply for your visa as soon as possible upon receipt of your I-20. You can apply for your visa at your nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  See the Department of State website for additional information on applying for a student visa.  Students will need to pay a SEVIS I-901 fee (currently $350) and visa processing fee. For more information about your F-1 visa, visit our Maintaining your F-1 Visa Status page.
• Complete and return your registration forms before the May 15 due date or as soon as possible.
• Complete and return the Health Services forms by the July 15 due date or as soon as possible. These forms must reach our Health Services office before you arrive at MLC. Please carefully read the information from Health Services that was mailed to you outlining the requirements for immunizations and a physical exam. Please note that a physical exam, a copy of your immunization record, the QuantiFERON (QFT-GIT) or T-Spot blood tests, and the following immunizations are required:
  • Tetanus, Diptheria, Pertussis (Tdap): Booster required in the last 10 years
  • Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR)

The following immunizations are RECOMMENDED and ENCOURAGED but not required:

• • Hepatitus B (HBV): 3 doses
  • Hepatitus A (HAV): 2 doses
  • Hepatitus C (HCV)
  • Varicella (Chicken Pox): 2 doses
  • Human Papilloma Virus (HPV): 3 doses
  • Influenza (Flu)
  • Meningococcal (MCV): Booster encouraged if it has been 3-4 years since first dose

For additional information regarding vaccinations or questions regarding the health forms and requirements please contact our nurse, Kelsey Horn.

• Health insurance policies for our international students are provided by Martin Luther College through GeoBlue. You will receive your insurance card during orientation.

• When you have arranged your flight, please email the following information to us: 
  • The airline
  • The flight number
  • Date and time of arrival at Minneapolis / St. Paul International airport
• To enter the United States, you will need the following documents (so don’t pack them in your checked baggage!):
  • Passport valid for at least 6 months from the date you enter the U.S.
  • Valid F-1 visa (for all but Canadian citizens)
  • Canadian citizens should carry a receipt for payment of of the SEVIS fee (FMJfee.com)
  • I-20 from Martin Luther College
  • Documentation of funds sufficient to cover your first year at MLC (you can use the same documentation you used to apply for your visa)