Steps to Obtain an I-20 for an F-1 Visa
Congratulations on your admission to SIUE!
U.S. immigration has authorized the use of electronic I-20 documents. Once you have submitted all required financial documents, SIUE will send your acceptance letter and I-20 to you via e-mail. You may use this document to schedule your visa interview at the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. Please make sure to print both your I-20 and your acceptance letter for your visa interview.
If you are transferring your SEVIS record from another U.S. institution, you will need to bring your admission letter to the International Student Services office at your current institution and request that your SEVIS record be released upon the conclusion of any classes in which you are currently enrolled.
Note: If you are transferring your SEVIS record from another U.S. institution, you will need to submit a SEVIS transfer-in form.
If you will not have an F-1 or J-1 visa, contact [email protected] to confirm your status.
Obtaining Your Student Visa
- Check your passport. Make sure the information on your passport is accurate and up to date. Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in the U.S.
- Check your I-20 for accuracy. If any information is incorrect, email the Office of Graduate and International Admissions at [email protected].
- Pay your SEVIS fee. Instructions are available on the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement website. Make sure to type your name and SEVIS ID number exactly as they appear on your I-20 form. Print a copy of the online payment receipt to keep with your records, and keep it in a safe place.
- Schedule your visa appointment. You may schedule your appointment up to 120 days prior to your program start date. Locate the nearest U.S. Consulate or Embassy. More information regarding the visa process, including average wait times, is available at the U.S. Department of State website.
- Attend your visa appointment. Be sure to bring all required documents, including your passport (valid at least six months into the future), your I-20, your SEVIS fee payment receipt, your admission letter, evidence of financial support for one year, and any visa application forms and fees.
Additional details are available on the International Student and Scholar Services website.
