Student Guide
for University of Louisville
We look forward to welcoming you to The University of Louisville. We want all our students to have the best possible start and for this to happen, it is essential that you follow the below steps.
Important Dates
Fall 26 Arrival/ Move-in Day
26 August 2026
Fall 26 Program Start Date
13 August 2026 (UG)
14 August 2026 (PG)
Spring 27 Arrival/ Move-in Day
05 January 2027
Spring 27 Program Start Date (PG)
06 January 2027 (UG)
07 January 2027 (PG)
Pre-Arrival and On-Campus Information
Pre-arrival timeline
As the program start date approaches, we will be in regular contact with a lot of useful information which will fully prepare you to have the best start. Please check your personal and university email regularly so you dont miss out. It is important to update us on any changes to your contact details (phone number and email address) so that we can continue to keep in touch with you and give you the support that you need.
Six weeks to go
- Attend our FAQ and Accommodation webinar
In this webinar we will provide you information on accommodation, registration steps, what to bring with you, etc. and we will answer any questions you may have. You will receive an email invitation on your personal email address well in advance. - Complete course registration
Compete your online advising and pre-registration questions, then your course registration. - Book your accommodation
If you havent booked your accommodation yet, we will contact you to advise you on accommodation availability and to check if you need any support from us. Please note that we wont be able to book accommodation on your behalf.
Four weeks to go
- Book your flight
By now you should have received your visa and you need to make your travel arrangements, so you arrive at the college on time to attend our induction events, collect your timetable and student ID card. We will contact you to request your flight details so we can prepare for your arrival.
- Pre-arrival emails
Pre-arrival emails will be sent regularly until the end of registration period and will inform you as well as remind you about important tasks or communications you will have received.
Two weeks to go
- Airport pick up
Ensure you have requested your airport pickup.
One week to go
- Pay your outstanding tuition fee
We will remind you that your remaining tuition fee will become due and will advise you on how to pay.
Zero weeks to go
- Welcome to the University!
The friendly UofL team will be there to help you with any information you may need when you move-into your accommodation and attend your arrival orientation!
Frequently Asked Questions
Please contact your programs campus team as soon as possible to update them on your visa appointment date. In some cases, you may be approved for late arrival.
Students may also defer their admission for some programs to the following semester. Please work with your counselor and contact your campus team for additional information.
In most cases, students will be able to choose from a university dormitory, homestay, or private accommodation. Prices and deadlines will vary based on location. Please refer to communications from your programs campus teams for more detailed information.
Please refer to information from your specific program of study for information on class registration.
Students with I-20s are invited to attend a Pre-arrival Orientation. While attendance is not required, it is highly recommended, as students who participate tend to be better prepared for their arrival and more successful in their first semester. For more information, please refer to the communications from your specific program.
Additionally, all students are required to attend a mandatory Arrival Orientation around the program start date. This session is essential for getting settled and understanding important academic and campus information. Please check the communications from your program for specific dates and further details.
International students have several banking options to choose from. Typically, banks will require a university admission letter, valid identification (passport or ID), and your address and contact information to establish an account. To open an account, its important to research local banks to find the best fit for your needs.
For added convenience, consider opening a bank account with ADRO before you arrive, ensuring its ready for use as soon as you land. Get started quickly and easilylearn more by visiting the links below:
Sign up for Adro banking
Compare Adro to other banking options
Requirements vary by university and program. Some universities require students to purchase a pre-approved health insurance plan and maintain coverage throughout their studies. Please refer to your program admission information for specific details. If health insurance is required, it must be purchased and valid before the start date of your program.
If you require special accommodations due to a documented disability, please contact your programs campus team as early as possible to discuss your needs. In most cases, you will need to work with a designated campus office responsible for coordinating accommodations. Its important to follow these steps, as instructors are unable to provide accommodations without proper documentation and coordination.
Plan to bring a 1-3 month supply (if possible) and a record of your prescription (translated if necessary). After arrival, youll need to schedule a doctors appointment to receive a prescription in the USA. Your program office can assist you with this.
To maintain visa status, you generally need to maintain enrollment in a certain number of hours or credits each term of study. This will vary by the type of program you are in, so please read through orientation and admission materials very carefully. Students are also expected to attend classes and submit assignments to demonstrate satisfactory academic progress in their program. Students who fail to attend class and/or earn failing grades risk becoming out of status.
Out of status students are not in compliance with SEVIS requirements to maintain their visa status. These students risk termination of their I-20 and study program. When terminated, students are not allowed to continue to study, and their visa becomes invalid, requiring them to leave the US. For more information, refer to your programs campus team on information on maintaining your status and requirements for attendance and satisfactory academic progress.
Your information will be collected and verified during your arrival as you pass through Customs and Immigration at the airport.
You should plan to have these documents on hand to answer any questions you may be asked:
Printed I-20 (for F-1 students) or DS-2019 (for J-1 students)
Your passport and valid visa
Proof of finances (e.g., your Financial Affidavit and bank letter)
Proof of accommodation
Admittance Letter and any support letters provided by the university