Visa Information

Visa Definitions

International students will need approval from the United States government in the form of a Student Visa (F-1 / J-1) in order to study in the USA.  F-1 Visa is the most frequently-used classification of visa for students. (J-1 visa status is offered to students who plan to enter the U.S. as part of an educational exchange program pursuant to co-operative agreements with universities abroad or whose education is primarily funded by the government or institutional resources.)

Certificate of Eligibility (I-20/DS2019)

The Certificate of Eligibility is issued to an international applicant for the purpose of the Visa application.  I-20 is issued to students who are applying for the F-1 Visa, and the DS-2019 is issued to students who are applying for the J-1 Visa.

To whom is the Certificate of Eligibility issued?

We will issue Certificates of Eligibility to admitted applicants who have completed the Declaration of Finances Form.  A detailed breakdown of expenses was given on the Application Requirements page and in the Office of International Students and Scholars’ Certificate of Eligibility guide.

What to do once you receive the Certificate of Eligibility (I-20/DS2019)

Once you receive your Certificate of Eligibility, an appointment can be made for the corresponding Visa stamp at the closest U.S. Consulate or Embassy. You will be allowed to enter the United States no earlier than 30 days before the beginning date of the academic program, as listed on the Certificate of Eligibility (I-20/DS-2019).  The list of the documents to be carried to the U.S. Consulate can be obtained from local U.S. Consulate website where you have applied for the visa processing. More information is available on the Office of International Students and Scholars' visa page.

Transfer Students

International Applicants transferring from other universities must obtain a transfer form from the Office of International Students and Scholars in order to transfer their SEVIS record. Please contact their office for details.