As you prepare for your travel to Bemidji, here are some important pieces of advice to keep in mind. We hope these travel tips help you prepare for your journey to Bemidji. If you have any further questions or need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Safe travels!

Arriving in the United States

At the U.S. port of entry, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) will determine your final admission and the authorized period for your stay. Make sure to have your passport information on hand.

If you arrive by air or sea, your passport will be scanned to create an electronic I-94 record. For land border crossings, you may receive a paper I-94.

The International Program Center (IPC) will need a copy of your I-94 for certain purposes like applying for OPT (Optional Practical Training) or a driver’s license.

Traveling to Bemidji

  • Flying. Book your airline ticket directly to Bemidji, Minnesota, USA, with airport code BJI. Aim to arrive at least one day before orientation. Courtesy transportation from the Bemidji airport or Bemidji bus station to the BSU campus is available for students with on-campus housing (see all of the details—including specific dates—on the Arrival Notification form).
  • Bus. Jefferson Lines offers scheduled bus service from Minneapolis to Bemidji. The bus stops at two locations in Bemidji. Inform the driver if you want to be dropped off at the BSU campus outside of Walnut Hall. Scheduled daily bus service leaving Bemidji includes service to Grand Forks and Fargo (North Dakota), and from Bemidji to Brainerd, St. Cloud, and the Twin Cities (Minneapolis/St. Paul).

BSU Arrival Notification Form

To help plan for your arrival and enrollment at Bemidji State University, complete and submit the Arrival Notification Form as soon as possible.

Make sure to e-mail the IPC office with information on your arrival date, time and flight number as soon as it is available. Indicate if you wish to have transportation from the Bemidji Airport or Bemidji Bus Terminal to the BSU campus (again, subject to arrivals on limited dates).

If a family member or friend is picking you up, please provide their name on the form, along with an address and phone number. If you know your on-campus housing assignment, include that, too!

If your arrival is delayed or changed, you may call the International Program Center at (218) 755-4096 from 8 a.m.- 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, or email us at international@bemidjistate.edu.

Life in Bemidji

Here’s some useful information about living in Bemidji.

Money

During orientation, you’ll have the opportunity to set up a bank account and shop for essential items. We recommend having immediate access to $5,000 USD for expenses like health insurance, registration, books and housing deposits. Additionally, keep some spending money for food, personal items and unexpected events. Ensure your money is stored securely until you arrange your bank account. Any amount exceeding $10,000 USD must be declared.

Shopping

During orientation, there will be at least one shopping trip organized so you can purchase personal items. Avoid bringing items like pillows, bedding, kitchenware, clothes hangers, toiletries, laundry supplies and towels, as you can easily purchase these necessities once you arrive. The move-in guide has more information on what you need to bring. (Keep in mind the move-in guide is geared to students driving to campus who have plenty of room for their items.)

Weather

Bemidji experiences four distinct seasons:

  • Fall (5-20°C)
  • Winter (below-20°C)
  • Spring (5-30°C)
  • Summer (30-38°C)

If you arrive in January for the Spring Semester, come prepared with warm clothing, including a coat, gloves, hat and scarf, as it may not be immediately possible to buy appropriate attire. On campus, you’ll find an indoor walkway system (tunnel) connecting your residence hall to the cafeteria, Wellness Center, library and classes, minimizing time spent outdoors during the winter.