How early can my child enter the U.S. with the F-1 visa for CTY study?

Students with F-1 visa status are permitted to enter the U.S. up to 30 days prior to the Program Start Date listed on the I-20 Form. The earliest entry date is listed on the I-20 Form, under the section entitled 'Earliest Admission Date'.  Attempting entry before this date may result in denial by the U.S. Customs & Border Protection (CBP) official. It is essential to ensure that your child does not use any other visa category, including but not limited to, the B-1/B-2 visitor visa or the Visa Waiver Program, when entering the U.S. to attend their CTY program. Students must present their F-1 documentation at the U.S. port of entry (POE).