AFTER YOU ARRIVE - IMMIGRATION CHECK-IN & ORIENTATION

Welcome to 黑料科! Upon arriving in the United States, all new F-1 students must complete mandatory immigration check-in and attend New Student Orientation before beginning classes.

Step-by-Step: Immigration Check-In at IEC

IMPORTANT: All new F-1 students MUST complete immigration check-in with the IEC within the deadline posted each semester. Failure to check in will result in a registration hold placed on your account.

Check-In Instructions:

1. Wait 3 Business Days: Wait at least 3 business days after entering the U.S. before starting your check-in so your electronic I-94 record has time to update in the federal system.

2. Verify Your I-94 Record: Go to and confirm that your class of admission displays F-1.

  • Important Regulatory Note: Per the DHS rule effective September 15, 2026, which ends "Duration of Status" (D/S), your electronic I-94 will display a specific, fixed admission end date tied to your I-20 program end date听 rather than "D/S."

3. Access the Portal: Log into the IEC Immigration Portal using your TSU student credentials.

4. Complete the Form & Upload Required Documents: Fill out the Immigration Check-In Request Form . You will need to upload clear, legible copies of the following:

    • Biographical (photo) page of your valid passport

    • F-1 visa page (if applicable)

    • Signed Form I-20

    • Official I-94 printout/record showing F-1 status and your authorized admission end date (or D/S if admitted prior to September 15, 2026)

5. Submit Request: Submit your form online. The IEC staff will process your check-in and release any active registration holds on your account.

6. Receive Updated I-20: Once processed, you will receive an updated Form I-20 featuring a valid DSO travel signature.

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New Student Orientation

All new international F-1 students are required to attend the IEC International Student Orientation prior to the start of the semester.

Once you have successfully arrived in the United States and completed your initial immigration processing and check-in, the IEC staff will send you specific orientation details, schedule instructions, and access information. Along with your orientation schedule, you will also receive the official IEC Student Guide & Handbook, which provides essential details about the IEC, program expectations, and campus resources.

Key Topics Covered During Orientation:

  • Overview of federal F-1 immigration regulations and status maintenance

  • IEC services, academic policies, and campus resources

  • Health insurance, campus safety, and emergency contacts

  • Navigating life and student support in Nashville

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Disclaimer: 听 The information on this website is provided for general guidance only and is not legal advice.听 U.S. immigration laws and regulations are subject to change. Students are responsible for complying with all federal immigration requirements. The IEC staff are not immigration attorneys.听 For complex immigration issues, students may wish to consult a qualified immigration attorney. Always verify current requirements with the IEC and with official U.S. government sources (USCIS, ICE/SEVP, DHS, Department of State). 听 听

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