Preparation for Travel

In preparing for college in Memphis, you need to make arrangements for visas, finances, transportation and other issues. We’ve listed some specifics for your consideration:

Passports and visas

All international students must have a valid passport to enter this country.
You also will need a valid visa issued by a U.S. consulate or embassy (Canadians need a passport only). There are several types of visas available. Do not choose the Visa Waiver Program as it entitles you for only a 90-day stay in the U.S.

Finances

Before coming to Rhodes, you must demonstrate that you have the financial resources to pay for your education (including any financial assistance we may offer you).
Discuss with your family and your bank how best to make funds available to you in the U.S.
Plan to bring enough money to cover costs while en-route (food, lodging and ground transportation) and for initial expenses at school (books and supplies, furniture, incidentals, food and entertainment).
Debit and credit cards are widely accepted in the U.S.
Traveler’s checks in U.S. dollars are a safe way to transport cash. They’re accepted nearly everywhere with photo identification such as a passport.

Transportation

Memphis has an international airport with direct flights from Amsterdam and multiple flights daily from major U.S. points of entry (New York, Chicago, Detroit, Atlanta and Miami).
Travel to Memphis by bus is convenient from any of the major points of entry, but it takes many hours or even days.

Climate

Memphis has a relatively mild climate, averaging high and low temperatures of 84ºF/64ºF in September, 48ºF/30ºF in January and 81ºF/61ºF in May. It rains frequently and the humidity tends to be high.
Memphis is known for its blooming plants and many trees. Because of this, it also has a high level of allergens.

Attire

U.S. college students dress casually for most occasions. Jeans, sweaters and jackets are common in the winter, and most students wear shorts, t-shirts and sandals in the warmer months.
Bring more formal attire for meetings, religious services, social events and special occasions, such as a suit for men and dress or skirt for women. You may want to allow a budget for clothing purchases, especially during your first year in the U.S.

We have prepared more extensive information for you concerning these and other topics that we’ll make available to you once you’re admitted to Rhodes.