Arriving Late

Review the information below if you will arrive in the US after the first day of classes.

What is Late Arrival?

Students who want to come to the U.S. on an F-1 or J-1 visa can enter no more than 30 days before the start date on their I-20 or DS-2019 form. We strongly recommend arriving early to help with your transition. Arriving on time is important for your studies and visa status, so please try your best to come early.

Customs and Border Protection officers expect F-1 and J-1 students to enter the U.S. by the program start date on their I-20 or DS-2019. We understand that sometimes things happen that are out of your control, like travel issues or visa delays.

If you will not be able to arrive in the U.S. by your program start date, International Student Services may be able to issue you a late arrival support letter. You can use this letter at your visa appointment or when entering the U.S. Please review the process for requesting a late arrival support letter.

Know Your Arrival Deadline

Orientation Arrival Deadline

Orientation, Transition and Parent Programs' New to UB orientation programs are required for all first-year and transfer undergraduate students.  For all international undergraduate students:

  • August 20: Recommended arrival date & on-campus residential move-in
  • August 21: Arrival deadline & International Welcome Weekend begins

Immigration Arrival Deadline

ISS recommends that you arrive to UB by the Orientation Arrival Deadline to ensure your required attendance at the International Welcome Weekend program.

  • August 26:  Customs and Border Protection officers expect F-1 and J-1 students to enter the U.S. by the program start date on their I-20 or DS-2019.
  • September 2:  The final date for undergraduate international students, approved for late arrival, to enter the U.S. for the Fall 2024

Regardless of your arrival date, you must complete your entire International Student Check-in.

Late Arrival Permission for Entry to US

To request a Late Arrival Letter:

If you will not arrive in the U.S. by your program start date, please review and submit the 'Late Arrival' e-form in your Check-In workflow in UB Global. This letter does not guarantee entry but is meant to help with your entry to the U.S. after the program start date on your I-20 or DS-2019.

When to Request Late Arrival

Late Arrival support letters may be requested beginning on:

  • August 1 for Fall admits
  • January 1 for Spring admits

Talk with your Academic Advisor:

You need to confirm your plans with your academic advisor to ensure the late arrival will not affect your ability to enroll in full-time classes by the add/drop deadline.

Learn more about advising at UB