All new international students in F-1 or J-1 status will receive a welcome packet from International Student Services. Here are some highlights:
Paying I-901 SEVIS Fee
Students applying for F-1 or J-1 visas for initial attendance at a university must first pay the I-901 SEVIS fee of $200 for F-1 students and $170 for J-1s. We recommend that you pay the fee on-line. F-2 and J-2 spouses and dependent children DO NOT have to pay this fee.
You must take your fee receipt for proof of payment to your visa appointment. Payments can be made on-line. Please visit www.fmjfee.com for more payment options and other information regarding this fee.
Student Visa Application at U.S. Consulate
You should also make an appointment as soon as possible with the US Consulate where you will be applying for your student visa. A consular officer can issue a student visa up to 120 days before the reporting date on your Form I-20 or DS-2019. You can find specific information about the consulate, appointment process, application forms, and visa fee at the Department of State website
Arrival Date
After you receive your visa and begin to plan your arrival date, please note that all Initial F-1 & J-1 students along with their dependents may enter the USA up to 30-days before the reporting date listed on their immigration document.
The reporting date for Summer 2010 is June 2, 2010;
you may enter on May 3, 2010 or any date after that.
The reporting date for Fall 2010 is August 16, 2010; you may enter on July 17, 2010 or any date after that.
For more information please consult our current Pre-Arrival packets.