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Acquiring Your F-1 Student Visa
An F-1 visa is a stamp in your passport that allows you to enter the United States along with valid I-20 and I-94 documentation. The expiration date on your F-1 visa is the date until you are permitted to enter or re-enter the U.S. using that stamp.
*Canadians do not have to apply for a visa but must still pay the SEVIS fee and enter the U.S. on F-1 status.
Steps to Acquire F-1 Student Visa
Eligibility
To be eligible for an F-1 visa, you must be accepted as a full-time student in an accredited academic program. Additionally, you should demonstrate strong academic standing and have sufficient financial resources to cover your education and living expenses in the United States.
Timelines
Once your enrollment is confirmed, you will receive an invitation to the International Services Portal to provide the required documents for an I-20. Once the required documents are received, OIS will process the I-20 within two weeks.
Visa appointment wait times are listed on the U.S. Department of State’s website.
Expedited visa appointment availability varies depending on the consulate or embassy.
Visa Process
To simplify the visa process, we have outlined the key steps involved:
Receive Form I-20 from Jefferson.
Pay the SEVIS fee and obtain the payment receipt.
Complete the online visa application form (DS-160).
Schedule and attend a visa interview at the US consulate or embassy.
Prepare and provide the required documentation during the interview.
Wait for the visa processing to be completed and receive your passport with the F-1 visa.
Book a flight to the U.S. to travel up to 30 days before your program start date.
Documentation Required
We understand that the visa application process can be complex. To help you navigate it successfully, we have compiled a list of documents to take to your visa interview:
Required:
- A passport valid for at least six (6) months
- Nonimmigrant Visa Application, Form DS-160 confirmation page
- A receipt for the visa application fee, if you are required to pay before your interview
- A photo meeting the requirements here if your photo upload fails while completing the online Form DS-160
- Form I-20 (on Student Attestation, signed and dated)
- If applicable, Form I-20 for dependent(s) that wish to join you
Additional recommended documentation:
- School acceptance letter
- SEVIS fee payment receipt
- Financial evidence that shows you have sufficient funds to cover your tuition and living expenses during the period you intend to study (ex., letter of award or scholarship, bank statement, proof of income, deposits in a U.S. bank)
- 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
- Any other information listed on the U.S. Consulate's website
Immigration Fees & Costs
We understand that managing finances is crucial for international students. When applying for an F-1 visa, there are certain costs and immigration fees to consider, including:
- SEVIS fee must be paid before your visa appointment $350.
- Visa application fee: The amount varies by country and visa type. See the U.S. Consulate website for more details.
Student Health Insurance
As a Jefferson student, you must have Jefferson student health insurance for the duration of your academic program. If you want to waive Jefferson's insurance, your insurance must meet the minimum requirements to qualify for a waiver.