UB Bound
Transitioning from SIM to UB is an exciting milestone. UB is committed to supporting you every step of the way from pre-departure planning through your academic journey in Buffalo. We encourage you to ask questions, stay engaged, and take advantage of the many resources available to you.
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UB-SIM Program Office
410 Capen Hall
(check in at 411 Reception)
Hours: M-F, 9AM - 5PM
Phone: (716) 645-4886
Email: oiesim@buffalo.edu
Congratulations on your upcoming transition from SIM-UB to the University at Buffalo home campus! This guide walks you through everything you need to know before, during, and after your move to Buffalo; from visa paperwork to finding your first winter coat. Read this alongside official emails from UB International Student Services and your academic department.
This page covers the key steps and resources you will need as a UB-BOUND student. It is intended as a general guide and does not represent an exhaustive list of requirements or a fixed timeline. Official instructions from UB offices take precedence — always refer to communications from UB International Newsletter (ISS) and your academic department for the most up-to-date information.
Before you leave Singapore, make sure the following documents are ready and accessible in your carry-on bag.
Important Documents to Prepare:
- Passport (valid for at least 6 months beyond your program end date)
- PRINTED and SIGNED I-20 (issued by UB; allow 2–4 weeks for processing after admission) *DO NOT LAMINATE*
- F-1 visa (once approved)
- Admission letter
- Financial documentation (bank statements matching your I-20 amount)
- UB Transcript (unofficial copies recommended for travel)
- Submit your picture for your own UB card (myubcard)
💡 Tip: Save a copy of all your documents inside your UBBox for easy retrieval and reference!
Start this process as early as possible, U.S. embassy appointments in Singapore can book up weeks in advance.
Step-by-Step Overview
- Receive your I-20 during your pre-departure orientation in Singapore
- Pay the SEVIS I-901 fee at fmjfee.com
- Complete the DS-160 visa application
- Schedule your visa interview at the U.S. Embassy Singapore (9 Napier Road)
- Attend your interview: bring all documents and be ready to explain your program and your intent to return home after graduation
💡 Tip: Bring your Singapore polytechnic or pre-university transcripts to the interview as supporting evidence.
Most students fly into Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BUF), which is about 20 minutes from campus.
- Plan to arrive no earlier than 30 days before the program start date listed on your I-20
- Keep all documents in your carry-on, not checked luggage.
- Bring any prescription medications with documentation
- Electrical adapters: the U.S. uses Type A/B plugs at 120V/60Hz
If you arrive before your apartment's check-in date, you will need to arrange your own temporary accommodations. Consider booking a nearby hotel or hostel for the interim period.
Buffalo Packing Guide: Spring vs Fall
Fall Arrival (August – December)
- Light t-shirts and shorts for August/September
- Long sleeve shirts and light jacket for October
- Heavy winter coat, essential by November
- Sweaters and hoodies
- Jeans and thick trousers
- Waterproof boots (snow possible from November)
- Gloves, scarf, and beanie
- Layers! Buffalo weather changes day to day
Spring Arrival (January – May)
- Heavy winter coat, non-negotiable in January/February
- Thermal underlayers/base layers
- Sweaters and hoodies
- Jeans and thick trousers
- Waterproof snow boots
- Gloves, scarf, beanie, and earmuffs
- March–April: lighter jacket as it warms up
- By May you'll be in t-shirts and jeans
Both semesters (Always Pack)
- Umbrella or raincoat (Buffalo gets a lot of rain too)
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Indoor layers (buildings are heavily heated in winter)
💡 Tip: Buffalo winters are unlike anything in Singapore. January averages around 17°F (-8°C). Buy a proper insulated coat either before you arrive or immediately at Target/Walmart when you land. Don't rely on a regular jacket.
💡 Tip: Nighttime is cold in Buffalo, regardless of the season, so be prepared!
At U.S. immigration, present your passport, F-1 visa, and I-20. Officers may ask about your program, your school, and your plans after graduation, answer clearly and confidently.
Getting to Campus
- Uber and Lyft operate at BUF airport
- Taxis available at the arrivals level
- If a friend or family member is picking you up, coordinate arrival times in advance
⚠️ UB-Bound orientation is MANDATORY. Missing it can affect your F-1 immigration record.
International Student Welcome includes:
- Immigration check-in with International Student Services (required to activate your F-1 status)
- Overview of U.S. academic culture and expectations
- Campus safety, emergency procedures, and resources
- Social events to meet other international students
UB-Bound Orientation:
- Meet your academic advisor to confirm your course schedule
- Finalize registration in HUB Student Center
- Review your degree requirements and transfer credit evaluation
UB offers traditional residence halls and apartment-style housing on campus. Apply for housing as early as possible as spaces fill quickly for students arriving in fall.
- Pick up your UB Card (student ID) at 1Capen
- Review your housing agreement and move-in instructions
- Grab essentials locally — Walmart, Target, and Wegmans are all within 10–15 minutes of campus
Your UBITName is your key to everything at UB. Set it up before you arrive.
- Campus Wi-Fi: Log in with your UBITName and password. Refer to getting connected to Wi-Fi at UB.
- UB Email: Your official communication channel with all UB offices. Check it daily.
- HUB Student Center: Manage registration, finances, holds, and personal information
- UB Learns: Access all course materials, assignments, and grades
- Need help? Contact UB IT at (716) 645-3542 or visit the IT Help Center in Capen Hall
⚠️ Health insurance enrollment is REQUIRED for all F-1 students unless you apply for and receive an approved waiver before the semester deadline.
- University Health Services (student health clinic)
- Counseling Services (free mental health support)
- UB Police Department — 24/7, (716) 645-2222
- Blue light emergency phones are located throughout the campus
- UB Guardian App — download before you arrive
Buffalo is one of the most affordable mid-sized cities in the U.S., with a strong food scene, arts culture, and easy access to Niagara Falls (only 30 minutes away).
- Winters: Cold and snowy, but manageable with the right gear. Most students from Singapore find their first snowfall exciting.
- UB shuttle services run between campus areas (check UB Transportation for schedules)
- Getting around: A car is helpful but not required. The Metro Rail connects downtown and UB's South Campus.
- Get involved: UB has 300+ student clubs, including international student organizations, cultural groups, and career-focused associations.
- Career support: UB Career Design Center offer internships, resume help, and alumni connections.
| Office | What They Help With |
| Office of International Education (OIE) | F-1 status, I-20, visa questions |
| International Student Services (ISS) | Orientation, immigration check-in |
| Academic Advising | Course registration, degree requirements |
| Office of the Registrar | Transcripts, enrollment verification |
| Campus Living | Housing assignments and move-in |
| UB IT Help Center | UBITName, email, Wi-Fi, HUB access |
| UB Career Design Center (CDC) | Internships, jobs, career advising |