Visa Application Process
Applying for an F-1 or J-1 Visa
At the time of your admission, Miami University will send you the SEVIS Form I-20 (for F-1 visa) or a SEVIS DS-2019 (for J-1 visa), whichever is appropriate. These forms outline the terms of your admission; you will need them when you apply for a visa to the United States. You will receive instructions on obtaining a visa when you receive your visa document.
SEVIS Fee - Before you go to your visa interview, you must pay the SEVIS fee ($200 for F-1, $180 for J-1). For more information go to:SEVIS Fee information and http://www.ice.gov/graphics/sevis/i901/index.htm
Note: You must have the Form I-20 or the DS-2019 in your possession when you arrive in this country or you may be denied admission to the U.S. at your port of entry.
The International Student and Scholar Adviser at Miami will prepare either the Form I-20 or the Form DS-2019 (Exchange Visitor Program) upon notification that you have been admitted. Only those students who receive full financial support from the university or from the U.S. or a foreign government are eligible to receive a DS-2019. All other admitted students will receive the Form I-20.
You should understand that if Miami University issues the Form I-20 or DS-2019 that you use to apply for your visa, you must attend Miami University after you arrive in the United States.
Preparing For Your F-1 Visa Interview
This information is for people who plan to enter the United States for the first time to study. For information on bringing dependents to the U.S., returning to continue studies, or renewing your visa, or for more details on how to apply for an F-1 student visa, refer to the U.S. Department of State website, at: http://travel.state.gov/visa/tempvisitors_types_students2.html
Preparing for your J-1 Visa Interview:
This information is for people who plan to enter the United States for the first time to study. For information on bringing dependents to the U.S., returning to continue studies, or renewing your visa, or for more details on how to apply for a J-1 student visa, refer to the U.S. Department of State website, at: http://travel.state.gov/visa/temp/types/types_1267.html
Things You Must Do:
1. After you receive an I-20 or DS-2019 form from the school that you want to attend, follow the U.S. Embassy/Consulate's instructions to schedule an interview for your F-1or J-1 student visa. To locate a U.S. Consulate or embassy, go to: http://usembassy.state.gov. It is important to apply for your student visa as far in advance as possible. Many consulates recommend that appointments be made no more than 90 days from the intended date of travel, but some can make earlier arrangements for interviews.
2. Complete the following forms (can be downloaded at http://travel.state.gov/visa/frvi/forms/forms_1342.html)
(a) DS-156 Nonimmigrant Visa Application Form
(b) DS-158 Contact Information and Work History for Nonimmigrant Visa Applicant
(c) if you are a male between the ages of 16 and 45, you must also complete the DS-157 Supplemental Nonimmigrant Visa Application.
3. Pay the visa application fee by following instructions on your local U.S. embassy or consulate's web site
4. If your I-20 or DS-2019 was issued on or after September 1, 2004 and is for "initial" attendance, you will also need to pay the $100 SEVIS fee before you go to your visa interview. Take your SEVIS fee receipt with you to the interview.
If you have any questions, please contact Molly Heidemann.
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