F1 document requirements

Hello
I have been accepted to a school in the US and have received my I20 form from them. I'm trying to figure out what supporting documents I'll need at the airport point of entry, but so far all I've been able to find is this list from the US consulate sites:

- valid passport
- proof of SEVIS payment
- proof of sufficient funds
- I20 from school
- "Proof of ties/residence in Canada which you have no intentions of abandoning"

I understand everything except that last bit. How does one establish "intentions"? It seems very subjective; will I be at the mercy of whatever person is sitting in the chair that day? What sorts of documents are considered "proof" of residency? Would a mailed bank statement from a bank be enough to satisfy both the funding and residency matter, or do I require something else? What do people typically use?

Thanks in advance -- the people on this forum are very helpful.

I understand everything except that last bit. How does one establish "intentions"? It seems very subjective; will I be at the mercy of whatever person is sitting in the chair that day? What sorts of documents are considered "proof" of residency? Would a mailed bank statement from a bank be enough to satisfy both the funding and residency matter, or do I require something else? What do people typically use?

I haven't typically heard of Canadians being hassled on this one--it seems to come up more when non-Canadians have to apply for an actual F-1 visa at a consulate.

I think the biggest thing they are looking for would be evidence that there are job opportunities in your field in Canada--something that would draw you back to Canada. Bring some solid evidence that you've really researched jobs in Canada and can prove that you can find work in Canada.

Hello,

I just have a quick question. I will be going to school in august and will be crossing the P.o.e. with my I-20, passport, SEVIS receipt and financial documents... if my I-20 states that a friend is providing me with free room and board, and the friendship developed through past visits to the U.S., is this not satisfactory? I am only concerned as with prior visitor visits to the U.S., I am often asked how I have friends to begin with in the States.. Thanks.