Students may apply for their visa as soon as they are prepared to do so. Students are encouraged to apply for their visa early to provide ample time for visa processing.When Do I Need to Apply for My Student Visa? It is important to apply for your visa well in advance of your travel departure date. To the extent possible, students should bring the documents suggested below, as well as any other documents that might help establish their ties to the local community.Ĭhanges introduced shortly after Septeminvolve extensive and ongoing review of visa issuing practices as they relate to our national security. Students need to plan ahead to avoid having to make repeat visits to the Embassy. Keep in mind that June, July, and August are the busiest months in most consular sections, and interview appointments are the most difficult to get during that period. Students should consult Embassy web sites or call for specific application instructions.
However, each embassy and consulate sets its own interview policies and procedures regarding student visas. In most countries, first time student visa applicants are required to appear for an in-person interview.
For additional student related information, visit the EducationUSA website created by the Department of State, Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs to learn about educational opportunities for undergraduate and graduate study, opportunities for scholars, financial aid, testing, admissions, and much more.
Please read this information for general information on how to apply for an F1 or M1 student visa. If your course of study is more than 18 hours a week, you will need a student visa. You should inquire at the appropriate U.S. primarily for tourism, but want to take a short course of study of less than 18 hours per week, you may be able to do so on a visitor visa. Student Applicants (for F-1 and M-1 visas Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), the largest investigative arm of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Any changes in an F-1, J-1 or M-1 student's personal and academic status must be reported through the SEVIS system, administered by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP), a division of U.S. The Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) is a web-based system for maintaining information on international students and exchange visitors in the United States.įederal Law requires that Marietta College regularly enter data about all F-1 and J-1 students into SEVIS. Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS)