Things to Know Before You Go
Now that you have been accepted to a UNO program, secured the appropriate F-1 or J-1 visa, completed the online portion of international orientation and completed enrollment, it is time to prepare to travel to the U.S.
UNO international students with an F-1 or J-1 visa can travel to the U.S. within 30 days of the official program start date on Form I-20 or Form DS-2019.
Review the information below:
Health Insurance
As you prepare to travel, it is important to know all international students and scholars on F-1 and J-1 visas must be enrolled in the UNO Health Insurance Policy.
- The insurance cost will be added to your bill for tuition and fees.
- Students sponsored by their home country's government with a current financial guarantee on file at UNO that extends through the end of the semester will not be assessed insurance fees and do not need to request a waiver.
- Waivers will only be reviewed for students who have a US-based employer plan.
Health Insurance Waiver
Waivers are available to students with a non-UNO health insurance policy that meets specific criteria. Each policy will be individually reviewed and must be submitted through the portal on MavLINK. Waivers are granted if the non-UNO health insurance policy:
- Is with a U.S.-based carrier that pays for health care in Nebraska
- Has a deductible of $500 or less
- Covers unlimited major medical coverage, including pre-existing conditions
- Includes unlimited medical evacuation and repatriation coverage
- Meets or exceeds Affordable Care Act requirements
- Has a coverage premium paid in full for the entire semester
J-1 Visa Exchange Students Studying as Visiting Non-Degree Students: Review the email sent by the Education Abroad Office about health insurance policy information.
ILUNO students on F-1 and J-1 visas pay for UNO-required health insurance each session. Since health insurance coverage starts on the first day of international student orientation, students should independently purchase health insurance to cover travel and dates in the U.S. before orientation begins.
Travel Documents
Learning the difference between your three main travel documents before you leave will help during your trip and arrival.
- Passport: Approval from your government to travel outside the country
- Form I-20 and Form DS-2019: Permission to enter the U.S.
- Student Visa: Permission to stay in the U.S. for the duration of your UNO program
Packing and Preparing to Leave
As you pack and prepare to leave on your flight to the U.S., remember to bring your travel documents and read the information about entering the U.S.
You must keep the documents below in your carry-on baggage, ready to be presented on request during your trip.
The documents include:
| √ | Valid passport |
| √ | Valid F-1 or J-1 visa |
| √ | Form I-20 or DS-2019 |
| √ | SEVIS fee receipt |
| √ | Financial documents—the same documents used for your Form I-20 or Form DS-2019 |
Other items that could be helpful to pack in your carry-on bag:
| √ | U.S. currency/cash |
| √ | A change of clothes in case of lost or delayed checked baggage or a delayed flight |
| √ | Health insurance information |
| √ | Prescription medication from a doctor/pharmacy, immunization/medical records, glasses/contact lenses |
Transportation and Communication
Remember to plan your transportation once your flight arrives in Omaha and how you will communicate (as needed). Also, review how your smartphone and phone plan will work internationally to be sure you can use it when you arrive in the U.S.
UNO Airport Pickup
UNO provides airport pickup for students living on the UNO campus only.
Email International Programs at UNOinternational@unomaha.edu with questions.
Other Transportation Options
Other transportation options are available if you live off campus, including: