You should learn whether your country has restrictions on sending money abroad. Such checks take much longer to clear than do checks drawn on US banks or even checks in your home currency drawn on a bank at home. Remember that until a check clears, you will not have access to the money it represents. Once you arrive at your new institution, you will want to open a bank account at a local bank. When you do so, bring your student identification, your passport, and the funds you wish to deposit.
Banks offer many different financial services.
You may wish to compare the services and costs of several banks before choosing one at which to open an account. Banks are competing for your business, so don t be shy about asking questions. A checking account will permit you to write checks to make purchases and pay bills. By using checks, it is easy to keep records of your purchases and payments. Many banks offer overdraft protection, enabling you to write a check that exceeds your balance with the understanding that you will pay interest on the overdraft amount.