Can I arrive in the United States on a f-1 visa and not report at the university first?

Question

I'm going to usa to study undergraduate and plan to arrive a month before to stay with my uncle's family in another state. Is it possible to do so or must I report at the university first?

Answer 1

You can legally enter the United States no more than 30 days prior to the report date stated on your I-20.

Yes, you may visit and stay with your uncle, however you must report to the school, attend any orientation and enroll for classes before the beginning of term.

Remember, do not leave enrolment too late because you will find that the classes fill up very quickly and you will be left with not a lot to choose from and since you only have 30 days you are already going to be behind many students who commence enrolment at the end of the summer semester.

Furthermore, I would strongly advise against this since you are going to need all of those 30 days to set up bank accounts, transfer money, find an apartment, get the funds for the apartment, get renters insurance, get supplies for school, pay for tuition, enroll in classes, take any basic skills assessments tests and get orientated with your new city.

None of the above is easy as an international student since most banks and renters will require a social security number and credit history - neither of which you will have and won't be able to obtain.

So plan accordingly, perhaps postpone your trip to your uncle until the summer or christmas period, unless of course he is going to help you set up things.

Answer 2

As far as I know, you don't need to report to the university first. However, you can only enter the US on an F1 visa 30 days before the start date of your program.

Answer 3

Under the terms of your visa, you may arrive only so many days before the start of the school term, and have a limited period of time to register for classes at the university. Otherwise, you are in violation of your visa and will be deported.  You cannot visit your "uncle's family" for a month.  Maybe a couple of days.