Before You Arrive

Additional useful information

• Immigration and Visas

  Students enrolled in FIU's International Student Exchange (ISE) Program will need to obtain a J-1 Exchange Visa to enter the United States. To obtain this visa, students must complete the following steps:

  • Submit ALL required documents outlined in communications and the ISE Application Portal.
  • As part of the application process, provide a Declaration of Finances form and an official bank letter or statement demonstrating enough funds to cover living and educational expenses during their term(s) at FIU. These expenses are determined by FIU’s Office of Admissions and International Student and Scholar Services and are specified in the ISE Application Portal.
  • Once all documents are submitted and your application is accepted, our office will request the Ds-2019 form from FIU’s International Student and Scholar Services Office. Both you and your home university will receive the DS-2019, acceptance letter, and embassy letter via email; you will need these documents to apply for the J-1 Visa.

  In addition to these requirements, students must:

  • Possess a valid passport. Passports must be valid for 6 months after the end date of your program.

  After gathering these documents, it is mandatory for students to visit the U.S. Embassy or Consulate to apply for the J-1 visa. The Embassy or Consulate will assess and decide on the visa application. Obtaining a J-1 Student Visitor Visa before entering the U.S. is required. Participation in the FIU Exchange Program is contingent upon having a valid J-1 Student Visitor Visa that covers the entire duration of the exchange.

  If this is your first time to enter the U.S. and your first time applying for a J visa, you must pay a SEVIS fee. Learn more about payment information.

  Note for Canadian citizens: If you are a Canadian citizen participating in the program, you are exempt from obtaining a J-1 visa from the Embassy or Consulate but must enter the U.S. under J-1 status. They should carry their DS-2019 form and passport when traveling and present them upon entry into the United States.

• Money Matters

  Students must ensure they have enough financial funds to support themselves during their exchange term at FIU. Here are some useful tips to prepare for the International Student Exchange (ISE) program:

  • Miami's cost of living is comparable to other major American cities but can be higher due to its significance as an economic, cultural, and tourist hub.
  • The currency used in the U.S. is the U.S. dollar. You can make payments using cash, credit cards, debit cards, electronically, or checks. Please note that some forms of payment may not be accepted everywhere. Before departure, verify with your bank or credit card company to ensure your cards will function in the U.S.
  • We recommend bringing $200-$500 in cash (U.S. dollars) to cover initial expenses upon arrival. It's advisable to have small bills ($1, $5, $10, $20) for small purchases. Take precautions with your money by storing it securely and avoiding carrying large amounts of cash.
  • You can open a U.S. bank account. FIU offers convenient on-campus banking services through Wells Fargo and the University Credit Union. You can also open an account at any bank in the city. Make sure that you have your passport for identification when opening an account. Our office can provide necessary documentation confirming your status as an exchange student if needed.
  • At FIU, your OneCard serves as both your student ID and a debit card. You can load funds onto your OneCard for making purchases on campus.
• Health and Safety

  Ensuring your health and safety during your exchange term at FIU is our priority!

  Health Insurance: According to the Florida Board of Governors and FIU policy, all international students with a J visa status must have medical insurance before registration. Documentation should be emailed to insure@fiu.edu.

  Complete the medical insurance requirement by:

  • Purchasing the FIU Sponsored Health Insurance Plan.
  • Submitting an International Student Alternative Health Insurance Compliance Form completed by your current insurance company and approved by FIU Student Health Services.

  If you have your own policy, your insurance company must complete and send the Compliance Form to the Health Compliance Office (HC) at least 2 weeks before registration.

  HC will review your policy and clear you to register if it meets requirements. If not, you must provide compliant insurance documentation. Alternate policies cannot be evaluated without the completed Compliance Form.

  The Health Compliance office is available via email (insure@fiu.edu) and phone 305-348-2688.

  For more details, please visit: Insurance for International Students website.

  Immunizations: Florida International University requires ALL students to submit proof of immunization showing the following:

  • Two doses of the MMR vaccine (measles, mumps, and rubella)
  • One dose of Meningitis (meningococcal),
  • Three doses of Hepatitis B.

  Students must provide proof of vaccination or waivers (where applicable) to release these holds. Students may choose to waive the Hepatitis B and Meningitis vaccines only.
  

  Additional information about the immunization requirements may be found on the Immunization information page. You must submit the correctly completed  FIU Immunization Documentation Form to the ISE Application portal.

  Immunization holds will prevent you from registering for classes.

  Student Health Clinic (SHC): Located at FIU’s MMC campus, SHS offers affordable medical care, including routine exams, laboratory tests, and pharmacy services.

  • For more information, please visit Student Health Clinic website.

  Campus Security: The FIU Police Department ensures a secure environment with regular patrols across FIU campuses. Emergency assistance is always readily accessible.

  • For more information, please visit https://police.fiu.edu/ 
• What to Pack

  When preparing for your exchange student adventure in Miami, consider packing these essential items:

  1. Sun Protection: Don't forget sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher), sunglasses, and any additional protection to shield yourself from the intense Florida sun.
  2. Climate Considerations: Miami experiences warm weather year-round, with temperatures ranging from approximately 90˚F in summer to 60˚F in winter. Although rare, temperatures can occasionally dip to 40˚F. Given Miami's humid climate with occasional heavy rain, it's wise to pack a light jacket, raincoat, waterproof shoes, and a mini umbrella.
  3. Swimwear: Miami's vibrant beach and pool culture means swimwear is a must for leisure and recreation.
  4. Footwear: Aside from waterproof shoes for rainy days, bring comfortable walking shoes or sandals for exploring both campus and the city.
  5. Campus Attire: Dress codes at FIU are generally casual and relaxed. Opt for short-sleeve shirts, lightweight pants or shorts, skirts, and dresses year-round. It's also beneficial to pack a few professional or dressy outfits for special occasions.
  6. Housing Essentials: Basic necessities like toiletries, linens, and apartment supplies are available for purchase upon arrival near FIU's main campus (MMC). FIU Housing does not provide bed linens, pillows, towels, toilet paper, or dishes, so plan accordingly.
  7. School Supplies: Stock up on notebooks, pens, and textbooks at the FIU Bookstore as needed.
  8. Electronics and Adapters: Bring your laptop, smartphone, and other essential electronic devices. Ensure you have adapters or converters suitable for U.S. electrical outlets.
  9. Health Needs: Pack any required prescription medications and glasses or contacts. Make sure that you familiarize yourself with local pharmacies and healthcare facilities.
  10. Travel Documentation: Keep copies of important documents such as your passport, visa, DS-2019 form, health insurance details, and emergency contacts handy.
  11. Personal Comforts: Consider bringing a few items from home that offer familiarity or represent your culture, such as photos, small decorations, or traditional clothing.
  12. Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated by carrying a reusable water bottle that you can refill throughout the day. We will give you a water bottle at the time of your Orientation.
  13. Local Currency: While U.S. dollars are accessible via ATMs, having some cash on hand upon arrival can be convenient for immediate needs.
  14. Open Mind: Approach your exchange experience with an open mind and readiness to adapt to new surroundings and cultures. Embrace the diverse opportunities FIU and Miami have to offer.

  By packing thoughtfully and preparing adequately, you'll be well-prepared to enjoy your time as an international exchange student in Miami!

• Orientation

  An orientation for the Inbound ISE students is scheduled the Friday before your semester at FIU begins. Attendance is mandatory for all inbound exchange students each semester. More details will be provided upon acceptance into the ISE program.