For all:
- ISL (and Carleton College) will be closed on 11/27, 11/28, and 12/24-1/1 for the holidays. Please plan ahead as Liz and Amy will not be regularly checking email during those times. If you have an emergency during those days, please contact Campus Security at 507-222-4444.
- Have a great break! Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have questions.
If staying on campus:
- Be sure to sign up for the Carleton Cupboard if you have food insecurity. (Do not abuse the Cupboard). The Cupboard will be open on weekdays from Nov. 25, 2025 through Jan. 2, 2026. Sign up here.
- ISL will be open Monday-Friday, 10am-4pm over the break.
If traveling (domestically or internationally):
- Check your I-20 (bottom of 2nd page) to make sure that you have a valid travel signature for returning to the U.S. (it’s valid for a year from the day it was last signed). If so, great, you’re all set! If not, stop by, schedule an appointment, or send me an email and I’ll get an updated one to you shortly.
- You can find the Northfield Lines bus schedule for break here. Purchase tickets by downloading the Pingo app. Tickets are $40 each way.
Documents to carry:
- Valid passport that is valid at least 6 months into the future from when you will return to the U.S.
- Valid unexpired F-1 or J-1 entry visa affixed in the passport (if your visa is expired and you need to travel be sure to schedule your appointment with ample time to get your visa; if travel isn’t necessary you may want to consider staying in the U.S.)
- Complete Form I-20 or DS-2019, signed by the authorized Carleton official within the last 12 months (6 months for those on OPT)
- Evidence of financial support
- I-901 SEVIS fee receipt
- Proof of enrollment/transcript
Other helpful tips:
- Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) officers can ask to look at your phone, but they do not require accounts to be public, so you can privatize your accounts when traveling. (Remember for the visa appointment, accounts do need to be made public).
- Google yourself to see what shows up. Edit your internet footprint if needed.
- Comply with the officer’s requests- failure to do so could lead to inadmission to the U.S.
- Remember to carry your I-94 record with you and look up your new I-94 record right after you’ve been readmitted to the U.S.
Safe Travels!