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New Student Arrival and Orientation

We can't wait to see you to campus. Remember: You may not arrive in the U.S. more than 30 days before the start date listed on your I-20 or DS-2019; please prepare accordingly using the guidance listed below. 

Arriving in the U.S. 

Prepare To Meet With Immigration

You will go through immigration at the first U.S. airport you enter. 

  1. Communicate your intent to enroll at SLU.
  2. Know the University's address and contact:
  3. Be ready to answer questions and provide the following documents:
    • SLU I-20 or DS-2019
    • Passport
    • F-1 or J-1 visa
    • Financial documents
    • SEVIS I-901 receipt (Form I-797 or a printout of your receipt)

Transferring Students 

If you have arrived on a SLU I-20, but plan to attend a different university, follow the transfer out procedure for new students. 

If you are transferring to SLU from another institution, please contact your designated school official and request that your SEVIS record be transferred to SLU using the SEVIS code KAN214F10192000. 

Arrange Transportation

Airport Shuttle: Spring 2025

A shuttle from St. Louis Lambert International Airport to SLU will be available Monday, Jan. 6 to Wednesday, Jan. 8. 

Request Pick-up

  • (undergraduate students)
  • (graduate students)

Visit SLU's Airport Information Desk

  • Terminal 1: Next to Exit 15 (lower level)
  • Terminal 2: Next to Exit 12 (baggage claim level)

Additional Options

  • Taxis
  • Uber or Lyft
    • SLU discount available
    • Exit at Grand Station

Arriving on Campus

Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

  • Go to Des Peres Hall, . 

Before 8:30 a.m., after 5 p.m., or on a weekend

  • Go to the Wool Center, . 

Post-Arrival

Mandatory: Check in at SLU's Welcome Suite

Bring your passport and I-20 to this required, in-person check-in, which is separate from immigration registration. If you are a transfer student, you must also bring your SLU acceptance letter. 

Please note: If you do not check in, you will be dropped from classes and your I-20 will be canceled. 

Spring 2025 Welcome Suite

  • Monday, Jan. 6 to Friday, Jan. 17
  • 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
  • Des Peres Hall,
Mandatory: Attend New International Student Orientation

Orientation is designed to help you meet your teachers, connect with other new students and adjust to life on SLU's campus. 

Spring 2025 Orientation

  • Friday, Jan. 10
  • Time TBD
  • Wool Ballroom at the Busch Student Center,
  • What to expect: 
    • Breakfast and lunch
    • New student information
    • Campus resources
    • Academic guidance
    • Meetings with faculty
Complete Your Immigration Registration

To activate your I-20 or DS-2019, you must complete immigration registration in your International Student Portal within 30 days of the start date printed on your I-20 or DS-2019. 

Please note: Students who do not register within 30 days of their arrival to the U.S. risk losing their visa. 

Steps to Register

  1. Watch SLU's . 
  2. Log in to .
  3. Update your local St. Louis address in Banner Self Service. 
  4. Select "Student Request Center," followed by "New Student Immigration Check-in."
  5. Upload the following documents:
    • I-20 or DS-2019
    • Visa
    • Passport
    • I-94
  6. Complete and submit the form. 

Get Settled at SLU

Take time to learn about SLU's campus, meet new people and explore the St. Louis area. And, don't forget to watch for planned social gatherings and seminars about American culture. 

Helpful Resources