• Pre-arrival Guides
• I-20 Instructions
• I-901 - Paying Your SEVIS Fee
• Paying Tuition and Fees
• US Healthcare
• Immunization Requirements
• Housing Information
• Traveling to the US
• What to Bring

I-20 Instructions

In order to apply for a Student Visa you need to do a few things:

1. Pay a fee
2. Schedule a visa interview at your local U.S. Embassy/Consulate
3. Gather documents for the visa interview
4. Prepare for your visa interview

Pay your I-901 fee of $200 which allows you to apply for a Student Visa. Once you pay this fee, you will receive a receipt. You need to bring this receipt to your visa interview.

Check the website of the US Consulate for your country for instructions on how to schedule a visa interview. The waiting time for an interview appointment for applicants can vary, so early visa application is strongly encouraged. Wait times for interview appointments and visa processing is available at the Visa Wait Times website. You can learn how to schedule an appointment, pay the application processing fee, and review embassy specific instructions by visiting the Embassy or Consulate website where you will apply.

You MUST submit the following forms and documentation at your visa interview:

• Your I-20
• Your Online Nonimmigrant Visa Electronic Application, Form DS-160. Visit the DS-160 webpage to learn more about the DS-160 online process.
• A passport valid for travel to the United States and with a validity date at least six months beyond the applicant's intended period of stay in the United States (unless country-specific agreements provide exemptions).
• One (1) 2x2 photograph. See the required photo format explained in Photograph Requirements;
• Your SEVIS I-901 fee receipt

Be prepared to also provide:

• Transcripts and diplomas from previous institutions attended;
• Financial evidence that shows you or your parents who are sponsoring you has sufficient funds to cover your tuition and living expenses during the period of your intended study. For example, if you or your sponsor is a salaried employee, please bring income tax documents and original bank books and/or statements. If you or your sponsor owns a business, please bring business registration, licenses, etc., and tax documents, as well as original bank books and/or statements.

Prepare for your Visa Interview
During the interview, be prepared to answer questions regarding your English language skills, your academic background, the Intensive English Program at A.C.E., proof of your financial ability, and your ties to your home country. Ties are the various aspects of your life that bind you to your home country. Strong ties vary from country to country, city to city, and person to person, but examples include:

• Your job;
• Your home; and/or
• Your relationships with family and friends.

While conducting visa interviews, consular officers look at each application individually and consider the applicant's circumstances, travel plans, financial resources, and ties outside of the United States that will ensure the applicant's departure after a temporary visit.

We want you to be prepared as possible for your visa interview! Please let us know if you have any questions.