Obtaining a Visa

Take your passport and the enclosed SEVIS I-20 form (for F-1 visa) or DS-2019 form (for J-1 visa) along with your admission letter, SEVIS fee receipt, and financial documentation (ex: financial support letter, sponsorship letter, current bank statement) to the US embassy or consulate in your country to apply for your visa. The following website provides links to all US embassies and consulates worldwide: http://usembassy.state.gov. Once approved, the visa is stamped in your passport. Canadian citizens are exempt from having to obtain a visa but must use their I-20 or DS-2019 to enter the US and must obtain a Form I-94 clearly indicating F-1 or J-1 status. You are permitted to enter the US 30 days prior to the start date noted on your I-20/DS-2019 form. You are required to report to and attend the school designated on your visa stamp and I-20/DS-2019 form. For more information please visit the Department of State website (F-1, J-1).

Arrival Handbook

Please review this handbook to help you each step of the way as you join the University community.