Pre-Departure for International Students

We are so glad that you chose the University of Maine!!  Please read the information on the Arrival Checklist, Arrival and Orientation links to help you prepare for your travel to Maine. When you finalize your plans, please submit your arrival information to us so we know when to expect you.

Fall Semester

Arrival Form Fall 2027 (available soon)
We ask all students to submit the arrival form, even if they do not require a pickup at the Bangor airport, bus station or hotel, and even if you plan to live off campus.
Tentative Arrival date: Sunday August 22, 2027

Spring Semester

Arrival Form Spring 2027
We ask all students to submit the arrival form, even if they do not require a pickup at the Bangor airport, bus station or hotel, and even if they plan to live off campus.
Arrival date: Tuesday, January 12, 2027

Pre-arrival Zoom Sessions

All sessions will begin at 9 am EST and will last about 1 hour.  Admitted students will be sent an email invitation with a registration and Zoom link.  A video of the session will be posted after each session.

Spring 2027 Sessions

Click the session title to register.
October 22, 2026, 9:00 am: Visa and Arrival Information
November 5, 2026, 9:00 am: On-Campus Housing Application, Off Campus Housing, Finances and Cost of Living
November 12, 2026, 9:00 am: Registering for Classes
November 19, 9:00 am: Health Insurance and Health Care in the U.S., Immunizations Requirements
December 3, 2026, 9:00 am: Graduate Topics
December 9, 2026, 9:00 am: Employment and General Q &A
January 7, 2027, 9:00 am: Overview of U.S. Culture – what I wish I knew

May 28, 2025, 3:00 PM

May 12, 2026, 9:00 am: Click here to view recorded session
November 13, 2025, 9:00 am Click here to view recorded session

May 28, 2026, 9:00 am: Click here to view recorded session
November 19, 2025, 9:00 am: Click here to view recorded session
June 10, 2025, 9:00 am: Click Here to view 2025 session

June 10, 2026, 9:00 am: Click here to view recorded session
June 18, 2025, 9:00 am: Click Here to view 2024 session

July 7, 2026, 9:00 am: Click here to view recorded session
July 8, 2025, 9:00 AM Click Here to view recorded session

Click here to watch the Overview of US Health Care System video referenced in the session.

July 14, 2026, 9:00 am: Click here to view recorded session
July 15, 2025, 9:00 am: Click here to view 2025 session

July 28, 2026, 9:00 am: View Fall 2025 Session here

August 6, 2025 at 9:00 AM (Tentative)

Packing & Luggage

  • HOT TIPS
  • Be sure to keep all of your important documents (passport, I-20 or DS-2019) in your carry-on bag
  • You can use our office address and telephone number on your luggage name tags in case it is delayed
  • Have this contact information inside your luggage, in case the luggage tag comes off
  • If your luggage is delayed, give the airline our office address for delivery.
  •  GENERAL PACKING TIPS
  • Bring only what you will need and travel lightly, you will have the opportunity to buy clothes once you are here
  • For spring semester arrivals, pack warm clothing
  • The electric grid in the U.S. is different than in Europe and many other countries. Make sure you have an adapter for your laptop and other electronic items before you travel
  • You will have opportunities to dress in your national clothes and to share information about your country and its culture with other students at international festivals and at school and community organizations.
  • We have scheduled a shopping trip in Bangor on day two of Orientation.  You can buy essential  items  such as  pillows, blankets, sheets, towels, snacks, etc.
  • Consider bringing with you any small items or pictures that will make you feel “at home” in your residence hall or apartment
  • Money in the amount of $10,000 or more and items of considerable value must be declared on entry. If you have questions regarding U.S. CBP regulations, contact the U.S. embassy or consulate in your country before leaving or visit the CBP website.

Helpful Information

FAQ Page