Welcome to SWOSU! Prepare for Your Arrival
Follow these steps to ensure a smooth start to your journey.
Jump to:
- Step-by-Step Guide
- You and Your Required Documents
- FAQs
- Download Checklist PDF
Step-by-Step Guide
- Check I-20
- Confirm passport validity
- Pay SEVIS I-901 fee (if needed)
- Schedule U.S. visa appointment (if outside U.S.)
Tip: Keep passport and I-20 ready at all times
- Arrive at Will Rogers World Airport (OKC) by the Wednesday before date in admission letter
- Complete Airport Pickup Request Form
- Airport pickup → one-hour drive to campus
- Bring original certificates, diplomas, transcripts
- Bring some U.S. cash for initial expenses
- Keep passport and I-20 ready at all airports
- Update family during travel
- Email international@swosu.edu if plans change
- When you arrive, download your I-94 and email it to international@swosu.edu if you can
- On campus → complete Residence Hall Application
- Off campus → arrange housing yourself; temporary hotels may be needed
- Packing list: clothes, documents, electronics, medications
- Review campus map and local area
- Submit immunization records and medical tests
- Use SWOSU Health Immunization Form or doctor’s documents
- Summer (Jun–Aug): hot and sunny
- Fall/Spring (Sep–Nov / Mar–May): variable
- Winter (Dec–Feb): cool but sunny
- Dress appropriately for month of arrival
- Report to International Student Services on first day of arrival
- Bring: passport, visa, I-20, financial documents, transcripts, I-94
- Pay the tuition deposit: If outside of the U.S: The Bulldog - How to Make International Tuition Payments, if in the U.S: The Bulldog - Bursar's Office
- Register for classes (our office will help you)
You and Your Required Documents:
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I-20
Your official document issued by SWOSU.
Used for your visa and required when entering the U.S. -
Passport
Your official identification from your home country.
Must be valid for at least 6 months. -
F-1 Visa
The visa stamp in your passport that allows entry to the U.S. as a student.
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SEVIS Fee Receipt
Proof that you paid the required SEVIS I-901 fee.
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Financial Documents
Proof of funding (bank statements, sponsor letters, scholarships).
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Transcripts & Diplomas
Official academic records from previous schools. Bring originals.
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Health Immunization Form
Proof of required vaccinations and medical history.
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SWOSU Admission Letter
Your official acceptance letter with program and start details.
-
I-94 (Arrival Record)
This is your official U.S. entry record created when you arrive.
You will need to download it after arrival for university check-in and records.
FAQ
A: Plan to arrive on the Wednesday before your listed in your admission letter. Early arrival helps you settle in and attend orientation.
A: Bring your passport, I-20, financial documents, original transcripts, and immunization records.
A: Yes, but make sure your I-20 start date matches your travel, and notify the International Office if plans change.
A: The ISS Office is available Monday to Friday 8-4. If your arrival is outside of these hours, you will need to wait until the next business day.
A: Contact the International Office at international@swosu.edu. You may need to arrange alternative transportation to campus.
A: Oklahoma can be hot in summer, cold in winter, and variable in spring/fall.
A: Yes, but you must arrange housing yourself. Temporary hotels may be needed until you find a permanent place.
A: You will need to complete the Residence Hall application. Information and the application can be found on the Housing page. It’s best to apply early to secure your spot.
A: After you have booked your flight. This helps us plan your pickup and ensure someone is available when you arrive.
SWOSU International Office is here to help you. Please email international@swosu.edu for more information.
