INTERNATIONAL STUDENT ARRIVAL CHECKLIST (ISAC)

Everything you need to know for a strong start to you first term at Millersville!

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PREPARING FOR YOUR MILLERSVILLE UNIVERSITY EXPERIENCE

The Office of International Programs and Services is here to help you prepare for a successful transition to the U.S. and university life. This includes helping you understand and secure the necessary documentation you and your family members will need to enter the U.S as an international student and maintain your status once you have arrived. Please contact the office with any additional questions at International.Services@Millersville.edu.

Please progress through these steps in order. 
  • Step 1: Confirm your intentions to enroll at Millersville University.
    • No further steps will be taken by the Office of International Programs & Services regarding your admission offer until this initial step is completed.  
    • Read more here 
  • Step 2: Provide official/final transcripts & test scores to Millersville University.
    • You can wait to provide these to Millersville, but they must be received by Millersville before the end of your first term on campus.
    • If you are a transfer student, please note that none of your coursework can be transferred to MU until we have received your final official transcripts
    • Read more here
  • Steps 3-5: Immigration-related steps necessary for acquiring/maintaining a student visa.
    • If you require an F or J visa to attend Millersville, you are not eligible to enroll until that visa has been awarded to you. 
    • Your final official transcripts can come to Millersville after you have received your visa. 
    • ACCESS STEPS 3-5

  • Steps 6-13: To be completed once you have become ELIGIBLE TO ENROLL.
    • Admitted students holding/requiring an F or J Visa: You are eligible to enroll once..
      • ...your student visa has been awarded.
      • ...your SEVIS record has been transferred to MU.
      • ...your Change of Status to F-1 has been approved by USCIS. 
    • All other Admitted Students:
      • You are eligible to enroll once your deposit has been processed and your final transcripts have been received.
      • Please note that you may need to wait for certain steps to become available (ex. housing registration) or you may have other required steps depending on your status.
      • Email internationaladmissions@millersville.edu with any questions or concerns. 
    • ACCESS STEPS 6-13
  • Step 13: Mandatory International Student Orientation is required of all incoming admitted students. You must arrive in Millersville on time to attend. 

Have more questions? See the our admitted student's frequently asked questions page or see the supplemental information section

Contact our team on WhatsApp

STEPS TO BECOME ELIGIBLE TO ENROLL:

  • STEP 1: Confirm Intent to Enroll
    How to Accept Your Admission Offer
    1. Submit the Admission Response Form: Complete the form on your Status Page to accept your offer of admission.
    2. Pay the $350 Enrollment Deposit:
      • This non-refundable deposit confirms your intent to enroll at Millersville University.
      • The full amount will be applied to your first term's tuition.
      • If needed, your deposit can be deferred to a later term along with your admission.
    3. Deadlines for Deposit Payment:
      • Fall Term (August - December): June 1
      • Spring Term (January - May): November 1
      • Summer Term (May - July, MSW students only): April 1
        Note: Payments after these dates may reduce your chances of securing a visa and arriving on time.
    4. Payment Details:
    5. Next Steps After Payment:
      • Once your deposit is processed, you will be eligible for step 3: obtaining your Certificate of Eligibility (Form I-20 or DS-2019).
      • Use your Status Page to track and complete these steps.

    Act promptly to secure your place and prepare for your studies at Millersville University!

     

    Access your Status Page

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  • STEP 2: Provide Final/Official Transcripts & Test Scores
    **Important for All Degree-Seeking Students at Millersville University**
    1. Submit Official Transcripts:
      • If you sent unofficial documents during admission, you must provide official copies before enrollment.
      • If your previously submitted transcripts were "official" but included pending or future coursework you later dropped, you must submit final official transcripts to Millersville.
      • "Official" means transcripts sent directly to Millersville University from your previous institution—not by you.
    2. Transcript Hold:
      • A transcript hold has been assigned to you, and will block your ability to register for future courses if final and official transcripts are not received by the start of your first academic term.
    3. Official Test Scores:
      • If your English language test scores were not verified during admission, you must send official copies to Millersville University.

    Important: Provide your documents on time to avoid delays in your academic progress. 

     

    How to send 'Official' Transcripts to MU

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  • STEP 3: Obtain Initial I-20 or DS-2019
    **Steps for F or J Visa Students at Millersville University**
    1. Check Your Application Status Page:
      Visit Application Status Page to review your progress and requirements.
    2. Complete the ‘Source of Funds’ Form:
      Fill out the form here: Source of Funds Form.
      • If you list a sponsor, they must complete the "Source of Funds - Sponsor" form, which will be emailed to them after you submit your form. Please ensure they are checking the email account that you provided in your form. 
        • Let international admissions know if you change sponsor information on this form after it's been submitted the first time. 
      • Corporate sponsors must provide documentation showing their authority to use the account.
    3. Millersville University's Mascot PassportProvide Proof of Funds:
      Submit documentation showing you have the financial resources listed on your Financial Cost Sheet (available on your portal).
    4. Submit Passport Copies: Provide a clear copy of the photo page of your passport, including the information of any
    5. dependents.
      • All biographical details must be visible.
      • If required by your country, your passport must be signed to be valid.
    6. Virtual Meeting (If Required):
      Some applicants may need to attend a virtual meeting to receive their Form I-20.
      • If this applies to you, the requirement will appear on your Status Page.
      • Attend the meeting on camera using the provided booking link.
    7. Immigration Documents:
      • Your I-20 or DS-2019 will be available on your Status Page.
      • Double-check all documents for accuracy.
    Complete these steps carefully to ensure your visa process goes smoothly!
     

    MONITOR YOUR STATUS PAGE

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  • STEP 4: Pay SEVIS Fee or complete SEVIS Transfer
    **Important for F or J Visa Students**
    1. Check Your Immigration Documents:
      • Your I-20 or DS-2019 will be released on your Status Page as a 'status update'.
      • Review the document carefully to make sure there are no errors.
    2. Pay the SEVIS Fee:
      • This is a fee required by the US government. Pay it online at fmjfee.com.
      • Need help? Check the SEVIS Fee FAQs for guidance.
    3. For Students Already in the U.S.:
    Complete these steps promptly to keep your visa process on track!
     

    Pay SEVIS Fee  

    SEVIS FEE FAQs

    SEVIS TRANSFER-IN FORM

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  • STEP 5: Schedule Visa Appointment & prepare for a successful visa interview
    **Steps for F or J Visa Students: Visa Application**
    1. Complete Form DS-160:
      • Here is the link to the form.
      • This is the primary way the visa consular will have information to review your visa application.
      • Please submit this yourself and take your time with it. You want to know exactly what was given to the embassy to review when you are at the interview. 
    2. Schedule a Visa Appointment:
      • Book an appointment at a U.S. Consulate or Embassy.
      • Find your local embassy or consulate at usembassy.gov/.
      • Check wait times for visa appointments on the Travel.State.Gov website.
    3. Prepare for Your Appointment:
    4. Read Tips for Your Visa Interview:
    5. Bring These Documents to Your Appointment:
      • SEVIS fee receipt
      • Millersville University Admission Letter
      • Official bank statements
      • I-20 or DS-2019 form
      • Your passport
    Stay organized and prepare well for a successful visa application!
     

    NAVIGATING THE VISA PROCESS 

    VISA APPOINTMENT PRACTICE QUESTIONS

    UPDATE MU ON YOUR VISA STATUS (IMMIGRATION CHECK-IN FORM)

    Millersville University's Mascot's F-1 Visa

      🗣️ P.S. - Do not forget to let us know how your interview goes! 

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WHAT TO DO ONCE YOU ARE ELIGIBLE TO ENROLL:

  • STEP 6: Access MU Accounts

    How to Set Up Your MU Account...

    ...If you are in the U.S.

    1. Go to the MU Account Setup Page:
      Visit myaccount.millersville.edu.
    2. Choose "First-Time Account Setup":
      • Follow the instructions step by step.
      • Write down your usernames and passwords to keep them safe.
    3. Set Up Authentication:
      • During your first login, you’ll see a page saying “More Information.”
      • Add your phone number and personal email address for security.
      • IT recommends using the Microsoft Authenticator app for easy and secure access. Follow the app setup instructions when you see this option.

    ...If you are outside the U.S. 🌏

    1. Visit the MU Account Setup Page:
      Go to myaccount.millersville.edu.
    2. Select "Forgot Password":
      • Enter your MU email address.
    3. Verify Your Account:
      • Check your personal email (the one you used when applying) for a verification message.
    4. Create Your Password:
      • Follow the instructions to set up a secure password for your MU account.
    Helpful Notes for Your MU Account 📋
    • Upload Your Student ID Photo:
      • Once your account is active, you can upload your student ID photo online.
      • Learn how to do this and more about your ID card here.
    • Need Help?
    • For F Visa Students:
      • Steps 6, 9, and 10 will be available once IPS confirms your visa approval.
    • Accessing MU Accounts:
      • All accounts (MAX, MU Email, myVillePortal, D2L, etc.) can be found at the bottom of any MU webpage. Scroll down and click "Logins."

    Get started and enjoy your journey at Millersville! 😊

     

    ACCESS MYACCOUNT

    IT Help Desk

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  • STEP 7: Choose Housing
    1. Housing Hold for Visa Applicants:
      • All international students seeking a visa will have a hold on their account that prevents housing registration.
      • IPS will remove this hold once your visa is confirmed.
    2. Eligibility for Housing Registration:
      • Students with an F visa can reserve housing after IPS confirms their visa approval.
    3. Who Must Live On Campus?
      • Freshmen and degree-seeking students with fewer than 60 credits are required to live on campus. Learn more about on-campus housing here.
    4. How to Apply for Housing:
    5. Exchange Students:
      • IPS will assist exchange students with their specific housing options.
    6. Exceptions & Off-Campus Housing:

    Have questions? Reach out to IPS or Housing Services for support!

     

    UNIVERSITY HOUSING

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  • STEP 8: Submit Health Evaluation form to Health Services
    • What is the Health Evaluation Form?
      • This form is required for all students attending Millersville University.
      • Follow the instructions [here] to complete it.
      • Frequently Asked Questions for the process are [here]. 
    • Why is it Important?
      • You cannot attend classes or live in university housing until the form is submitted.
    • Important Notes:

     

    HEALTH EVALUATION FORM

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  • STEP 9: Purchase Health Insurance
    • Health Insurance Requirement:
      • All international students at Millersville University must have health insurance.
    • How to Get Covered:
      • Check the [Health Insurance Form] for details about the required coverage.
      • Millersville recommends ISO Insurance as a provider.
      • If you choose another provider, you must complete a waiver and provide proof of insurance.
    • Special Requirements for Athletes:
      • International student-athletes and those in intramural or club sports must purchase a plan that covers sports activities.
    • When Should Coverage Start?
      • Your insurance should start on your arrival date in the U.S. or the orientation start date if you’re already in the U.S.
    • Learn More:
      • Read about health and wellness resources at Millersville here.

     

    HEALTH INSURANCE FORM

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  • STEP 10: Contact your Academic Advisor & Register
    Important Registration Information for International Students
    A. Holds on Your Account
    1. Visa Hold:
      • If you are applying for a student visa, a hold will prevent you from registering for classes.
      • IPS will remove this hold once your visa is confirmed.
    2. Transcript Hold:
      • If Millersville has not received your final official transcripts by the start of your first term, this hold will stay on your account. (Refer to Step 2 for more information)
      • Contact International Admissions if you plan to bring sealed physcial transcripts with you when you arrive to the USA. 
      • It will block future course registration until the International Admissions office gets your transcripts.

    B. Ready to Register?
    1. Find Your Advisor:
      • Use your MAX account to see your academic advisor.
      • Access MAX and other accounts (Email, D2L, etc.) by scrolling to the bottom of any MU webpage and clicking "Logins."
    2. First-Year Students:
      • The Registrar’s Office will register you for classes in collaboration with academic departments.
    3. Transfer & Graduate Students:
    4. F & J Visa Students:
      • Remember...you can register for courses once IPS confirms your visa approval.
    Stay organized and reach out to IPS or your advisor if you need help!
     
    MU LOGINS
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  • STEP 11: Pay your MU Bill
    Easy Payment with TransferMate
    Millersville University partners with TransferMate for fast and simple international payments through your online student account.Steps to Pay Your Bill:
    1. Log in to SAM (Student Account Manager):
      • Here is the link to SAM
      • Select "Make a Payment."
      • Choose TransferMate from the Payment Type dropdown menu and follow the instructions.
    2. Banking Instructions:
      • After selecting TransferMate, you’ll receive full banking details to complete your payment.
    3. Important Notes:
      • Payments are applied only after funds are received.
      • TransferMate is for university-billed charges only.
    4. Need Help?
    5. Payment Plans Available:
      • Students or authorized third parties can set up installment plans in SAM by selecting the best option for their needs.
      • These plans cover current semester balances only.
      • Find more information [here]. 
    6. Other Payment Options:
      • Visit the Office of Student Accounts website for additional payment methods.
      • You can make payments before receiving your bill—credits will stay on your account for future use.
      • Payment plans are availa
    If you have questions, the Office of Student Accounts (OSA) is here to help!
     
    SAM
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  • STEP 12: Complete the Check-In & Arrival Forms
    Plan Your Arrival and Check-In
    1. Tell Us Your Arrival Plans:
    2. Check Arrival Dates:
    3. Upload Your Documents:
      • Log in to your [MyGlobalMU Portal] to upload your immigration and insurance confirmation documents.

    Get ready for an exciting start at Millersville University!

     

    MYGLOBALMU

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  • STEP 13: Prepare for International Student Orientation
    International Student Orientation: What You Need to Know
    1. Mandatory Requirement:
      • Attending International Student Orientation is required for your visa.
    2. Pre-Orientation Sessions:
      • Look out for emails about [Voyage to the 'Ville], our pre-orientation program.
      • Contact us if you’re not receiving these invitations.
    3. Optional MU Online Orientation:
      • Explore the online orientation for a helpful introduction to Millersville.
      • Note: Online orientation is optional and does not replace on-campus orientation.

    We’re excited to welcome you to Millersville!

     

    INTERNATIONAL STUDENT ORIENTATION (Summary & Dates)

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Helpful Supplemental Information

  • Selecting Courses

    How to Search and Select Courses at Millersville University

    1. For Those on Step 10 (approved to register & be a transfer/gradaute student):
      • Be sure to have your Millersville Student ID (it's on your status page). 
      • Ensure you have your login established (step 6).
    2. Visit the Registrar’s Website:
      • Use the [Search Course Website] to explore courses for your selected term.
      • Under WEB SCHEDULES, choose Search by Subject for the easiest way to find classes.
    3. Check the Academic Calendar & MU Catalog:

    Steps to Search for Courses:
    1. Select Search by Subject.
    2. Choose the term for your session.
    3. Scroll through the list and pick your subject.
    4. Select the course type (Undergraduate or Graduate) and click All Courses.
    5. Click Submit to see the available courses.
    What the Course Chart Shows:
    • CRN number (course reference number)
    • Course code (subject and level)
    • Credits
    • Course title (click for a description)
    • Days & times
    • Location (may say “TBD” if not finalized)
    • Professor’s name
    • Available seats

    Important Notes:
    • Course Approval:
      • Discuss your course selection with your Millersville academic advisor.
      • Exchange and visiting students should also consult advisors at their home universities.
    • Add/Drop Deadline:
      • You can add or change classes only within the first week of the term.
    • Course Details:
      • Click the course title for more information.

    Prerequisites & Corequisites:
    • Prerequisites: Required classes you must complete before taking a specific course.
      • Example: You must take Beginner Spanish before registering for Advanced Spanish.
    • Corequisites: Classes you must take at the same time as another course.

    Start exploring your options, and reach out to your advisor if you have any questions! 😊

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  • Entering the USA: I-94 Form & Required Immigration Documents
     
    1. Entry Timing:
      • You may enter the U.S. no more than 30 days before the start date listed in section 5 of your I-20 (F-1) or DS-2019 (J-1).
    2. Understanding the I-94 Form:
      • The I-94 record tracks your legal status and travel history in the U.S.
      • After each entry, download a copy of your latest I-94 at [the I-94 website] by clicking "Get Most Recent I-94."
    3. Documents You Need to Enter the U.S.:
      • I-20 Form (F-1) or DS-2019 Form (J-1) from Millersville University
      • A valid F-1/J-1 visa (sticker in your passport) issued by the U.S. embassy/consulate (not required for Canadian or Bermudian citizens)
      • A valid passport
      • Your SEVIS fee receipt
      • A letter of admission from Millersville University
    Keep all these documents with you while traveling. Safe travels, and welcome to the USA!

     

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  • Departing & Re-entering the USA
    What to Expect When Re-Entering the U.S.
    When you return to the U.S., expect detailed screening at airports or other entry points. Here’s what you should know:
    1. Identity and Document Check:
      • Officers will verify your identity, visa, and I-20 (F-1) or DS-2019 (J-1) against U.S. law enforcement records.
    2. Possible Questions:
      • Be prepared to answer questions about your immigration status, travel history, purpose of visit, and background.
    3. Personal Belongings:
      • Your luggage and personal items (including your electronic devices such as your cellphone) may be inspected, and your documents could be photocopied.
    4. Secondary Inspection:
      • If your documents are incomplete, you’ve had a past immigration issue, or meet certain criteria, you might experience additional screening, causing delays.
    5. Keep IPS Contact Information with You:
      • Save the names, phone numbers, and emails of IPS staff members in case you need assistance during your travel.
    Stay calm, bring all required documents, and allow extra time for travel. Safe travels!

     

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  • Getting Around: Local Transportation Options
    BUS
    • Use the [Red Rose Transit Authority (RRTA)] for local bus services.
    • Free Rides for MU Students:
    • Transfers to Other Locations:
      • To travel beyond these routes, transfer to another RRTA bus line.
      • Show your student ID for the base fare, ask the driver for a transfer slip, and pay additional money if required.
    • Download the App:
      • Find out more [here].
    Note: RRTA's Millersville-specific bus routes do not operate during holidays or outside the fall and spring terms.
    AMTRAK TRAIN
    • The [Lancaster Amtrak Station] is 10–15 minutes from campus.
    • Connect to Philadelphia, then travel to New York City, Baltimore, or Washington, D.C.
    • [Amtrack] has lines that run from coast to coast, you can use this service to see most states. 

    TAXI & RIDE SHARING
    • Use services like [Uber], [Lyft], or local taxis for convenient rides.
    • For long distance trips you can consider booking in advance with companies like Friendly Transportation (Uber & Lyft will usually be available).
    • Download their apps on your smartphone to book a ride.
    Enjoy exploring your new community! 

     

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  • Off-Campus Housing Options

    Immerse International

    • A multicultural community founded in 1987 to support international students in building relationships, professional development, and spiritual growth.
    • Not affiliated with Millersville University.
    • Features:
      • Most rooms are double occupancy.
      • Utilities, WiFi, Cable TV, and meals/self-service food included.
      • 25% of residents are American students interested in connecting with international students.
    • Leases:
      • Standard 12-month leases, but shorter terms available upon request.
    • Click HERE for more information.

    Student Lodging Inc. (SLI)
    • Popular off-campus housing provider for MU students.
    • Features:
      • Offers more freedom than dorms while maintaining safety and security.
      • Properties are close to campus.
    • Click HERE for more information.

    Manor House Apartments
    • Apartments near MU offering one-, two-, and three-bedroom options.
    • Features:
      • Fully furnished options available.
      • Amenities: swimming pool, 24/7 fitness center, community center.
    • Click HERE for more information.

    Millers Crossing Apartments
    Other Apartment Options
    • Shared apartments near MU, many within walking distance.
    • Responsibilities:
      • Arrange your lease, deposit, move-in day, furniture, and roommates independently.
      • Most apartments are unfurnished, so plan to buy and transport furniture after arrival.

    Food & Meals
    • Immerse International: Food items provided for self-service in the student kitchen.
    • All other options: You’ll cook your own meals.

    Explore your options and choose the housing that fits your lifestyle! 😊

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  • Basic Groceries & Products

    Walkable:

    Other Non-Walkable Options:

    • Weis Markets: 2.6 miles (4.18 km) away. Affordable. Many ethnic options. In a complex with more shopping options. 
    • Giant: 2.7 miles (4.35 km) away. Affordable. In a different direction, but also in a larger shopping complex. 
    • Stauffers of Kissel Fresh Foods: 3.2 miles away. Local produce, more expensive, has specialized offerings. 
    • Wegmans: 4.2 miles away (6.76 km). National chain, specialized offerings, more expensive. 
    • Grocery Outlet: 4.3 miles away. Discount chain carrying brand-name groceries, plus items like gifts & toys.
    • Lidl: 2.7 miles away (4.35 km). Discount chain carrying brand-name groceries, plus items like gifts & toys.
    • Aldi: 3.1 miles away (4.99 km). A discount chain that offers mostly store-branded items, and rotates other prodices by season. 

    Follow the links to google maps.

    Online Grocery & Food Order Apps

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  • International Grocery Stores

    Follow the links to google maps. These are all within Lancaster city limits. There will be more options in the surrounding cities & regions. 

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