F-1 and J-1 students are expected to arrive by their program start date on their certificate of eligibility (I-20 or DS-2019). We strongly encourage students to do everything in their power to arrive before their program start date in order to attend mandatory orientations and ensure a smooth entry into the U.S.
If you anticipate arriving after your program start date, you will need to reach out to your program regarding any mandatory orientations that you may miss.
- For F-1 students arriving after the program start date, but before the first day of classes, you will not need additional support documentation in order to enter the U.S.
- For F-1 students who wish to arrive after the first day of classes, you will need approval from your program and a letter of support from ISS in order to enter the U.S.
- For J-1 students who anticipate arriving after the program start date, you will need approval from your program and a letter of support from ISS.
If you are a student who requires a late arrival letter from ISS, please email ISS at visiting-intl@berkeley.edu with documentation from your program confirming that you have been approved for late arrival.