Step 4: Apply for F-1 student visa (skip if you already have one)

If you are currently in the U.S. and already hold an F-1 international student visa, please continue to Step 5.

How to Apply for the F-1 Student Visa

Apply for your student visa as early as possible; which is why we have deadlines in place. We recommend a few months (if possible) before the semester begins. U.S. embassies and consulates worldwide are often booked for appointments many weeks in advance. You can start this process once you receive your official acceptance letter and initial I-20, which will have your SEVIS ID included. Follow the checklist below to obtain your student visa.

• Pay the I-901 SEVIS Fee online and print out the receipt for your visa appointment
• Visit the U.S. Department of State website to locate the embassy or consulate near you and schedule your visa appointment.
• Prepare for your visa appointment. Check with the embassy and make sure you bring all your documents (this includes your Passport, I-20, acceptance letter, Financial Support Documents, and SEVIS Fee receipt among other items required by the embassy): Study in the States

NOTE: Visa Delay/Denial
If your visa is denied you may reapply for the visa within a 12-month period without having to pay the SEVIS fee again. If you are denied and plan on reapplying, please communicate your plans with your admissions advisor, as there may be things you can or should update that could help with your visa reapplication. The most common reasons for visa denial are:

• Failure to prove sufficient ties to your home country.
• Failure to provide sufficient evidence of financial support.
• Failure to explain your educational plans/intent.