Pre-arrival guide
It’s almost time to board a plane and start your new journey at Drew University! We have a lot of resources to help you along the way.
Get ready to start a new journey at Drew University! We've put together a checklist of must-haves and the must-dos for international students arriving in the US. Follow along for step-by-step guides and helpful tips.
What do I need before studying at Drew
After confirming your enrollment offer, University Technology (UT) will email you your uLogin ID and student identification number.
Next steps:
Visit the activation portal for detailed instructions
Select "activate my account" to access your login credentials
Keep your student ID number secure for future reference
Important: Apply for your F-1 visa immediately after receiving your documents.
Required documents:
Form I-20 (sent by arogers4@drew.edu)
Valid passport
Financial documentation
SEVIS I-901 fee payment
Need visa support? Join our Pre-Arrival Student Success Program (PASS) for expert guidance.
Are you living on campus? Here’s how the on-campus housing process works.
Pay your housing deposit through INTO Pay (link provided in your offer letter)
Check housing assignments
Ensure payment is completed before arrival
Are you living off campus? Here’s how the off-campus housing process works.
Graduate students seeking off-campus accommodation can contact iso@drew.edu for local housing recommendations and support.
Visit Submitting your forms to read about required immunizations and other important health information.
Next, download and complete the required immunization form and physical exam form.
Finally, upload or submit this form online on Drew health portal. You may also bring the completed immunization form with you to Orientation if you are unable to submit it online before departure. All immunization records MUST be in English.
Pay your full tuition before arrival. For online payment and wire information, please refer to the links on your offer letter. If you have questions, please reach out to iso@drew.edu.
Please provide your flight details through our arrivals portal so we can schedule your airport transfer.
Airport transfer options:
Newark (EWR): Complimentary campus transfer
JFK and LaGuardia (LGA): $100 transfer fee
Arriving early? If you are arriving early and would like to book a hotel, the following website recommends hotels close to the Drew campus.
Select programs may require a math placement test. Please read our tips below if this applies to you.
Helpful tips for the math placement test:
Check your Drew email: You will receive details in your Drew email account if a math placement test is required
Highly recommended: Complete your math placement test before arrival
For further assistance: Contact iso@drew.edu and read more details here.
Support every step of the way
Travel stress-free
If you have any issues during your travels, call our emergency line at +1-973-755-8102. This line is open during your approved arrival period.
Attend a pre-orientation webinar
Join a pre-orientation webinar or digital event. We add more virtual events and webinars as we get closer to orientation. Please check frequently for updates.
Got a question?
We’re here to help. Email intlenrolmentsupport@drew.edu
Pre-Arrival Student Success Service (PASS)
Our Pre-Arrival Student Success Service (PASS) offers a variety of visa support resources to help guide you through the F-1 visa process. From virtual workshops to one-on-one support, PASS is here to make sure you feel confident about the visa process from start to finish.
Your pre-arrival questions answered
New Jersey's climate has four seasons ranging from an average of 4°C in January to 30°C in July. You can expect some snow in the winter months and plenty of sun in the summer months. It is important to have clothes to accommodate the four different seasons. There are plenty of nearby places to purchase any additional items as needed.
You must have hard copies of the following documents: electronic copies are not accepted at the Port of Entry. Keep your mobile phone in your backpack, not in your pocket or in your hands.
Original Form I-20
Valid passport with a valid F-1 visa stamp
SEVIS I-901 fee payment receipt
Proof of funding for your tuition fees and living costs (including sponsor letter if applicable)
Updated billing statement from the university showing fees have been paid for the semester/term
Health forms and immunization documentation
All medical prescriptions written in English
Official transcripts or test scores
Laptop computer – turned off
If you are unable to obtain a visa before the start date for which you have been admitted, email us immediately. You may defer your start to another intake and apply your deposit to the next semester, or you may request a refund if your visa was denied.
Plan to arrive: You should arrive during move-in week.
Timing requirements for F-1 students:
Arriving early: As an F-1 student, you are allowed to enter the US up to 30 days before the program start date listed on your I-20. Check your I-20 for the earliest arrival date. If you arrive early, you will need to arrange your own transportation and accommodation.
Arriving late: If you arrive after the start date listed on your I-20, you may be denied entry to the US. A late arrival letter may be issued to you from your university, but this does not guarantee entry. When booking your flights, remember to plan around your move-in date.
We’re here for you. Our Student Services team is experienced in helping international students transition in living and learning in the US. Come talk to us anytime.
Your first week at Drew University
We can’t wait to welcome you on campus. During your first week, you’ll attend orientation. Our orientation goes over everything you need to settle into student life at Drew. Get a preview of what your first week will include below.
Got a question?
We’re here to help. Email intlenrolmentsupport@drew.edu