What to Pack
UWM University Housing rooms are furnished but do not include basic necessities like bed linens and cookware. Most off-campus apartments will not be furnished. You should begin thinking about what you will need to bring with you from your home country and what you will purchase when you arrive in Milwaukee.
Items to carry on your person:
- Printed and signed I-20 (or DS-2019)
- Passport with Student Visa
- Final transcripts, if you have been admitted on the condition that you provide final transcripts
- Proof of I-901 fee payment
- Proof of funding
- Printed UWM admission letter
Items to pack:
- Clothing for warm and cold weather
- Credit card
- Computer
- Medical records for existing illnesses (especially allergies) and immunization record
- Prescription medicines, as required
- Extra pair of contact lenses and/or glasses
- The device with your registered Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) app
Items you can purchase after you arrive in Milwaukee:
- Pillow, sheets, blankets, towels, and washcloths
- Bedspread or comforter
- School supplies
- Non-prescription medicines, aspirin, vitamins, antacids, ointments
- Small refrigerator
- Laundry basket or sack
- Power strip (must be bought in the U.S.)
- Desk lamp (must have metal shade if you are living in the residence halls or Kenilworth Square Apartments)
- Cooking/kitchen supplies
What to Expect at the Airport
- Arrive early for your departing flights; long lines are common in airports.
- Build extra time into your travel schedule to go through U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and ensure you’re on time for additional transportation like a bus or train.
- While waiting in line, be mindful of your surroundings.
- You may or may not be questioned by CBP officers and asked to show them your documents. If you are questioned, be polite and honest. Listen and follow officers’ directions.
Local Weather
Fall arrivals: In September, Milwaukee’s weather is generally very comfortable and pleasant. Average temperatures typically range between 58°F (14°C) and 72°F (22°C).
Spring arrivals: January is one of Milwaukee’s coldest months; snow and ice are common. Average temperatures typically range between 17°F (-8°C) and 30°F (-1°C). Come prepared with a warm winter coat, hat, mittens/gloves, scarf and appropriate footwear, and plan to buy additional warm weather gear once you are in Milwaukee. Items from your home country might not be suitable.