Visa Requirements
Upon acceptance to the University, the prospective international applicant will receive an I-20 form. The student should use the I-20 form issued by the University to obtain a student (F-1) visa from the U.S. embassy or consulate in the home country to enter the United States to study.
The international applicants will need various documents to support the visa application. They are advised to prepare carefully for the visit to the U.S. embassy or consulate. Visa procedures vary from one embassy/consulate to another, so it is best to check with the office where the applicant plans to apply to determine exactly what supporting documentation is required.
Several standard items are required for the student visa application.
Same as the above-mentioned requirements depending on the program applying for, and including:
1. A passport valid for at least six months
2. Form I-20, included with the acceptance packet
3. School admission letter
4. Completed visa applications (DS-156 DS-160, DS-158 and, if applicable, DS-157. In most countries, applications are now available online)
5. Two 2-inch x 2-inch photographs in the prescribed format (see the Bureau of Consular Affairs’ Nonimmigrant Visa Photograph Requirements)
6. A receipt for the visa application fee
7. A receipt for the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) fee. If you paid the fee electronically and have not received an official receipt in the mail showing payment, the consulate will accept the temporary receipt printed from your computer. If you do not have a receipt, the consulate may be able to see your payment electronically if your payment was processed at least three business days before your interview
8. Financial evidence (original documents only) that shows you have sufficient funds to cover your tuition and living expenses during the period you intend to study
9. Any information that proves that you will return to your home country after finishing your studies in the U.S. This may include proof of property, family, or other ties to your community
Students transferring from a U.S. institution will use I- 20 form to apply for transfer authorization through the Department of Homeland Security.