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 2026 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 23, 2026

Spring Semester

Arrival Form Spring 2027 (available later in 2026) – Students should plan to arrive 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.

Upcoming webinars for Fall 2026:

May 12, 2026, 9:00 am: Visa and Arrival Information
May 28, 2026, 9:00 am: Housing, Employment and Managing Finances
June 10, 2026, 9:00 am: Registering for Classes
July 7, 2026, 9:00 am: Health Insurance and Health Care in the U.S., Immunizations Requirements
July 14, 2026, 9:00 am: Graduate Topics

December 18, 2025: Questions and Answers on any topic
Click here to view session

Recordings of previously held sessions are available below.

May 28, 2025 at 3:00 PM

November 13, 2025, 9 am: Visa and Arrival Information
Click here to view session

November 19: Housing, Employment and Managing Finances
Click here to view session

June 10, 2025 at 9:00 AM
Click Here to View 2025 Session


June 18, 2025 at 9:00 AM
Click Here to View 2024 Session


July 8, 2025 at 9:00 AM
Click Here to View 2025 Session
Click here to watch the Overview of US Health Care System video referenced in the session.


July 15, 2025 at 9:00 AM
Click Here to View 2025 Session

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