1. Get Your Paperwork in Order

Before anything else, make sure your visa (usually an F-1) and I-20 are secured. Keep digital and printed copies of all your important documents—you’ll need them more often than you think!

2. Find the Right Housing

Location matters! Look for student housing close to your campus. Make sure it has furnishings, utilities, and flexible lease options. At Zuma Housing, we make your transition smoother with our ready-to-move-in units, a supportive community, and easy access to UCLA, SMC, and more. It’s student living, simplified.

3. Set Up Your Essentials

Open a local bank account, get a U.S. SIM card, and apply for a student Metro pass for discounted public transport. Apps like TAP and Google Maps are your best friends for getting around LA.

4. Connect with Community

Join student orgs, international student meetups, and online groups to make friends and find your support circle. Zuma Connect, our community-driven platform, is a great way to meet other students, find local tips, and stay updated on events—all designed with international students in mind.

5. Balance Fun & Academics

It’s easy to get distracted with all the beaches, concerts, and city buzz. Stay organized with a planner, and schedule time to explore—because you’re here to learn and live.

Your LA journey starts with one bold move—and you’ve already made it.

Welcome to your next chapter! 🌎✨