Initial International Student Check-In (SEVIS Activation Requirement)

After you arrive in the United States, you must complete your required Initial Check-In with your Designated School Official (DSO) as soon as possible.
The purpose of the Initial Check-In is to verify your arrival in the United States, confirm your US contact information, and review your immigration documents. Once your DSO verifies your information, your SEVIS record will be updated to Active status, confirming your arrival and eligibility to study in F-1 status.

During check-in, you must provide:

Your current US residential address.
Your US phone number (if available).
Your electronic Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record.
Your valid passport.
Your F-1 visa (if applicable).
Your original, hand-signed Form I-20.

Before submitting your documents, review your Form I-20 to ensure that all information is accurate and that your name matches your passport. If you notice any errors, contact your DSO immediately.
Your DSO will review your documents to verify that you entered the United States in F-1 status and that your SEVIS record contains the correct personal and program information. Providing incomplete or inaccurate information may delay the activation of your SEVIS record.

Important: Your SEVIS record must be in Active status before you can begin authorized employment, apply for a Social Security Number (SSN), or apply for a driver's license or state identification card. Government agencies and employers verify your SEVIS status electronically, so applications submitted before your record is activated may be delayed or denied. After completing your Initial Check-In, allow sufficient time for your SEVIS record to be updated before applying for these benefits.