Arriving and Checking-in at MCPHS
Welcome International Students to MCPHS!
The Immigration & International Support Services team provides immigration advising and assistance to F-1 international students both before and after their arrival in the U.S. We are here to assist F-1 international students in obtaining and maintaining proper legal immigration status while attending MCPHS.
Traveling to the U.S.
An F-1 visa allows international students to enter the United States for full-time academic study at an accredited institution. Upon arrival, students must present a valid passport, the F-1 visa, and Form I-20 issued by their school. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at the port of entry will verify documents and confirm the student’s intent to study. Students can enter the U.S. up to 30 days before their program start date. Please schedule your travel plans to your MCPHS campus according to the program start date listed on your Form I-20.
Getting Started: Immigration Welcome Day and SEVIS Check-in
Welcome to MCPHS!
All new international students—whether new to the U.S., or coming from high school, an English Language Program, or another college—must attend the International Welcome and Orientation (in addition to the regular new student orientation). Registration for both the international and general orientation events will be sent by Admissions in the months before your arrival. Upon arriving on campus, you’ll also complete your SEVIS check-in with the Immigration Services Office (IISS) to confirm your documents and admission to the U.S.
IISS will email you instructions before the semester starts. You’ll complete your SEVIS check-in online at global.mcphs.edu using your MCPHS credentials. This step is essential for maintaining your F-1 status.
Please prioritize your SEVIS check-in after arrival—missing this may affect your immigration status. We’ll cover all details during orientation.