As the summer travel season begins, many students will be going home or to other destinations. As an F or M student, it is important to understand the rules at U.S. airports to ensure you carry the proper documents and items with you.

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) offers some helpful tips for students traveling this summer:

• Prepare for Security: Before you leave for the airport, put all your valuables and important documents, such as your Form I-20, “Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status,” passport and visa, if necessary, in your carry-on luggage for easy access. TSA allows you to bring liquids under 3.4 ounces, but they must be in a separate bag in your carry-on luggage and ready for removal when you go through security.
• Going Through Security: Once you reach the security checkpoint, have your passport and boarding pass ready to hand to a TSA officer. When preparing your luggage for the x-ray scanner, remember to remove your shoes and belts. You also need to remove any personal electronics (laptops, phones, tablets, etc.) and your separate bag of liquids, if you have one, from your luggage. Each of these needs to be scanned separately from your main carry-on luggage.
• Check for prohibited carry-on items: These types of items include liquids over 3.4 ounces, flammable or explosive material, weapons and chemicals. For a full list of prohibited items, check out TSA’s “Can I bring my..." tool.
• Know before you go: Check out the helpful TSA Traveler Information site for more information about how to prepare for your trip.

Remember, it is important to maintain your status, so get permission from your designated school official (DSO) before you travel out of the United States. Your DSO will provide you with an approval on your Form I-20. When traveling, it is important to keep your DSO’s contact information and your valid passport with you in your carry-on luggage. You also need to bring the following documentation with you when you travel:

• Proof of financial support
• Evidence of acceptance to your school
• Paper receipt from your payment of your I-901 SEVIS Fee

Contact your DSO if you have any questions about traveling or your requirements.

Source:

• Summer Travel; Transportation Security Administration