Pre-departure checklist
Refer to the International Student Welcome Guide and make sure to complete all tasks on this checklist:
- Do not pay the MU enrollment fee (not required for exchange students).
- Make travel arrangements to arrive in Columbia by the mandatory arrival day.
- Complete the arrival information form.
- Complete the housing request form. You will be responsible for paying the housing application fee.
- Obtain any needed immunizations and send your immunization records to the Student Health Center by using the secure upload feature in myZou.
- Log in to your MU email account to communicate with your adviser and receive information and updates about your time at Mizzou.
Visa application
Your DS-2019 has been mailed to you — it is only one page and must be used when applying for an exchange visitor (J-1) visa to enter the United States. Read the enclosed information about applying for your visa and follow all instructions carefully. Refer to the International Student Welcome Guide for information about the visa application process.
Pre-departure health tips
You should undergo physical, dental and eye exams to ensure you are in good health. Talk to your health care provider about any ongoing medical condition and what special accommodations you may require. Make sure all your immunizations are up to date; talk to your provider about getting Hepatitis A and B vaccinations, and any other necessary immunizations.
What to bring and what to buy in Columbia
Here are a few ideas of some things to bring with you versus things that are easier to buy here. This is not an exhaustive list, so please make sure you bring with you what you need.
Bring
Medication
- Bring all medication you need or might need.
- Bring enough for the duration of your stay.
- Bring an original copy of your prescription that includes:
- Name of medication
- Nature of condition medication is prescribed
- Dosage and amount of medication
- Do not send medication through the mail.
- Please remember, the same brands of medication may not be available over the counter in the U.S. the way they are in your home country. Some medications you are used to taking may not be available here without a prescription.
Towel and toiletries
- A towel for a shower after a long plane ride! You can buy more once you’re here.
- Travel-sized toiletries will help get you though the first few days before you can get to a store.
Personal items
- Bring some photos, a country flag, a favorite poster! This can help you settle in and make it feel more like home.
- Don’t bring anything you would be devastated to lose or damage.
Electronics, adapters/converters
- There are several computer labs here on campus, but we recommend that you bring a laptop for study and personal use.
- Tablets and e-readers are good for replacing books in your suitcase.
- Be sure to have the appropriate insurance with you for your electronics, as it’s easy for them to get damaged during travel.
- The U.S. operates between 110 and 120 volts, and uses the double prong plug (type A or B).
Buy here
Bedding and towels
- Walmart has just about everything you will need and International Student and Scholar Services sponsors a trip as soon as you arrive.
- Very easy to find at affordable prices.
- If you are living on campus, the residence halls do not provide bed linens or towels — you can talk with your cultural ambassador to arrange a quick trip to get some after your arrival.
Kitchen items
- Some residence halls will have a kitchen, but community supplies may be limited. We recommend purchasing your own items to use in these kitchens.
- Consider buying a few kitchen essentials with your suite or roommates to offset the cost.
Miscellaneous items
- Hair dryer
- Clothes hangers
- Laundry detergent
- Umbrella
- School supplies
- Alarm clock