Congratulations on your admission to Purdue University! Moving to West Lafayette is an incredible adventure, but the transition from your home country to the "Greater Lafayette" area can be a bit of a whirlwind.

To help you hit the ground running (and avoid any first-week meltdowns), we’ve put together the top five things every new international student needs to know before they touch down in Indiana.

1. Master the "Airport-to-Campus" Logistics

West Lafayette isn't right next to a major international airport. Most students fly into Chicago O’Hare (ORD) or Indianapolis International (IND).

• The Shuttle Secret: Public transit from these airports is limited. Most students use Reindeer Shuttle or Lafayette Limo.

• Pro Tip: Book your shuttle seat the moment you have your flight details. They fill up fast during orientation week! If you’re arriving late at night, remember that shuttles might stop running, and a ride-share (Uber/Lyft) from Chicago can cost over $200.

2. Pack for Four Seasons (Sometimes in One Day)

Indiana's weather is famous for being unpredictable.

• The Winter Reality: If you’re arriving for the Fall semester, it will be beautiful in August, but by November, temperatures drop significantly.

• Don't overpack heavy coats: Save suitcase space. You can buy high-quality winter gear at the Tippecanoe Mall or local shops once you arrive. Just make sure you have a solid hoodie and a rain jacket for those first few weeks.

3. The "Mobile & Money" First-Day Sprint

You’ll need a US phone number and bank account almost immediately for everything from ordering food to paying rent.

• Banking: Many students use the Purdue Federal Credit Union or Chase, both of which have branches right on campus (near the Purdue Memorial Union).

• SIM Cards: You can grab a temporary SIM at the airport, but local plans from providers like AT&T or T-Mobile (available in West Lafayette) usually offer better long-term rates.

4. Navigate the "Housing Gap"

If you are living off-campus, your lease might not start until a few days after you arrive.

• The Problem: Dorms and apartments often have very strict "Move-in" dates.

• The Solution: Check your lease carefully. If there’s a gap, you’ll need to book a local hotel or Airbnb in advance. West Lafayette hotels book up months in advance for move-in week, so don't wait!

5. Complete Your "Virtual Check-In"

Purdue’s International Students and Scholars (ISS) office requires a mandatory "vMISCi" (Virtual Mandatory International Student Check-in).

• You cannot skip this! It’s vital for your legal visa status. Keep your passport, I-20, and I-94 arrival record handy as soon as you pass through customs.

Feeling Overwhelmed? We’ve Got Your Back.

Stepping off a 15-hour flight into a new country is a lot to handle alone. At Support Services Education, we specialize in being the "boots on the ground" for international Boilermakers.

From 24/7 airport pickups to helping you set up your first US bank account and finding the best grocery stores for home-cooked flavors, we make sure your first week at Purdue feels like coming home, not a logistics headache.