How to Enter the U.S. in J-1 Status

We are looking forward to your arrival at Champlain College! If you follow the instructions outlined below, you should be able to enter the United States without difficulty.

1. IMPORTANT! DO NOT come earlier than 30 days before your program start date indicated on your Form DS-2019. You risk being denied entry or being admitted as another visa category (i.e. Visitor instead of a Student).
2. DO NOT arrive later than the program start date without our permission.
3. DO NOT pack your immigration documents in your suitcase.
4. Text on WhatsApp using this phone number in case of emergency: +1-802-318-0365.
5. All international students entering the U.S. will receive an electronic I-94. This is your STATUS inside the U.S.  After entering the U.S., in order to check that you have been placed into the correct status ("J-1 D/S"), please click here. 
6. Have your documents ready to show a U.S. Customs and Border Protection Officer. You will be asked to show your passport, J-1 student visa, Form DS-2019, and financial documents when you are going through the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Inspection.
7. Be prepared to explain why you are coming to the U.S. The CBP officer will ask a few questions about your purpose for coming to the U.S. Please be prepared to tell them why you are coming to study at Champlain College.
8. If you do not have your Form DS-2019 and you are issued an I-515A, please email your A/RO as soon as possible. An I-515A only allows you to stay in the U.S. for 30 days.
9. You may be asked to go to secondary inspections. This is normal - do not worry.
10. Please report to the Office of International Student Services (Skiff Hall, Room 204) soon as you arrive at Champlain College. Please bring with you the following documents for inspection:

• Passport (s) with current J-1 Student Visa
• Original Champlain College Form DS-2019