Applying For A Visa

All nonimmigrant visitors are required to have a valid visa in their passport to be allowed entry into the U.S. Nonimmigrant visitors will need to make an appointment for a visa interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate abroad to receive a visa. Visas cannot be issued inside the U.S. For general information, visit the U.S. Department of State.

F and J Visas

Generally, a citizen of a foreign country who wishes to enter the United States must first obtain a visa. You must have a student visa to study in the United States. Your course of study and the type of school you plan to attend determine whether you need an F-1 or J visa.

Before you can apply at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate for an F or J student visa, you must first apply to and be accepted by a SEVP approved school. For more information on student visas, visit Department of State.

When you are accepted by the U.S. school you plan to attend, you will be enrolled in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS). You must pay the SEVIS I-901 Fee. The U.S. school will provide you with a Form I-20 to present to the consular officer when you attend your visa interview. Visit the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) website to learn more about SEVIS and the SEVIS I-901 Fee.

Appointments

Visit the U.S. Department of State for information about the visa application process for nonimmigrant visitors to the U.S.

Visa & Wait Times

Since visa appointments are limited and visa processing times can be lengthy, make the appointment as early as possible. Consulates will generally accept appointments up to 120 days prior to the start of studies.

Visa Interviews

When going to the visa interview, you must demonstrate the following:

• Passport (valid at least six months into the future)
• Certificate of Eligibility: I-20 (F-1/F-3) or DS-2019 (J-1)
• Proof of admission or proof of enrollment
• Evidence of financial support
• Visa application forms
• SEVIS Fee Receipt (F-1/F-3 and J-1 only)
• Students on OPT or STEM OPT must also bring an unexpired EAD card and a job offer letter or employment verification letter.

Some consulates may require additional documentation, so check the consulate website for visa application instructions. Visa application
forms and fees can be found on the consulate website.

*Canadian citizens are not required to apply for a visa to enter the U.S. as an F-1 or J-1, but must still pay the SEVIS I-901 Fee and present the Certificate of Eligibility (I-20 or DS-2019) at the U.S. port of entry. For more information visit the U.S.Department of State.