Post-Landing Services

Everything you need after you land in the US

From finding an apartment to opening a bank account and exploring PhD programs — your complete guide to settling in the United States.

What do you need help with?

Pick a category to get started.

Academic

PhD & Graduate Programs

Explore funded PhD and Masters programs with stipends, research areas, and application timelines.

  • Stipend & funding details
  • STEM-designated programs
  • OPT/CPT eligibility
  • Application deadlines
Browse Programs
Housing

Housing & Apartments

Find off-campus housing near your university. Cost estimates, popular platforms, and what to watch out for.

  • City-by-city rent breakdowns
  • Trusted listing platforms
  • Lease & deposit tips
  • Roommate-friendly options
Find Housing
Finance

Banking & Finance

Open a US bank account within days of arrival. Compare banks, understand fees, and build credit from day one.

  • No-fee student accounts
  • Required documents checklist
  • Wire transfer options
  • Credit cards for new arrivals
Set Up Banking
Daily Life

Phone, Health & Daily Life

Everything else you need sorted in your first week — SIM card, health insurance, grocery, transport, and more.

  • Best SIM cards for students
  • Health insurance options
  • Grocery & food delivery
  • Transport apps by city
Get Settled
Careers

H-1B Employer Directory

Find companies with the highest H-1B approval rates, salary data, and OPT hiring history.

  • Approval rate data
  • Average salaries
  • STEM OPT eligibility
  • Cap-exempt employers
Browse Employers
Guides

Step-by-Step Guides

From getting your SSN to filing your first US tax return — practical guides for every stage.

  • SSN application guide
  • Filing taxes as F-1
  • OPT application walkthrough
  • Building US credit
Read Guides

Your settlement timeline

A practical checklist for your first few months in United States.

1

Before you arrive

  • Apply for housing early (6–8 weeks ahead)
  • Research SIM card options
  • Carry $300–500 USD cash for first days
2

Week 1

  • Get a SIM card at the airport or carrier store
  • Open a bank account (bring passport + I-20 + visa)
  • Set up health insurance through your university
3

Month 1

  • Get your Social Security Number (once OPT/work starts)
  • Apply for a student credit card to start building credit
  • Register with your city's international student community
4

Month 3+

  • Begin OPT/CPT planning with your DSO
  • Explore PhD / graduate program opportunities
  • Start tracking your credit score

Also check out our free tools

Processing times, visa calculators, tax guides, credit builder, and more — all built for United States.

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