At the Border
Once you obtain your I-20 from MICA and your F-1 visa, you will be permitted to enter the U.S. no more than 30 days before the start date on your I-20.
You should carry all of your important immigration documents with you. Do NOT keep them in your checked bags; you will not be able to access them before you go through Customs.
Bring these items with you:
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Valid passport with your F-1 visa
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MICA I-20
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Acceptance letter from MICA
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Financial support documents (copies are fine)
Answer all questions the Border Patrol Agent may ask honestly and to the best of your knowledge.
If for some reason you are detained at the border, email the Office of International Education at internationaleducation@mica.edu or call at 410-225-2243
Getting to MICA from BWI Airport
Arrival to the Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) is HIGHLY recommended. It is the closest airport to MICA and the only airport in Baltimore.
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Shuttle Service: During Fall Orientation only, MICA offers a free airport shuttle from BWI airport to MICA’s dorms on move-in day. You will receive an email during the summer about shuttle information and how to sign up before Orientation.
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Taxis: Located on the Baggage Claim area on the lower level of BWI near Doors 5 and 13. A taxi ride from the airport to MICA takes about an average 30 minutes and costs roughly $40 (fares and travel time subject to change). For more information, go to http://www.bwiairporttaxi.com/
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Ride Services (Uber/Lyft): Ride services/App-based ride services pick up and drop off passengers at the terminal curbs on the Upper Level/Departures.
- Light Rail Service: You may take the Light Rail from BWI to a stop close to MICA however if you are traveling with a lot of luggage, it is recommended you take a taxi/car/shuttle to MICA. One way fare on the Light Rail costs $2.00 and the stop closest to MICA is the University of Baltimore/Mt. Royal stop. You will want to head south on West Mt. Royal (up the hill) towards MICA’s campus. For more information, go to http://mta.maryland.gov/light-rail
Arriving by Car
If you are traveling via car to MICA, more information can be found at this page, Maps & Directions on how to get to Baltimore/MICA.