Help
OVERVIEW MENU
New Students
I-20 Information
Important Travel Guidelines
Maintaining Your F-1 Status
Maintaining Status While Not Studying at SLC
Travel Outside the United States
Employment
Glossary of Terms
U.S. Taxes
Commencement Invitation Letter
Travel Letter

 

 

Visit the website Study in the States for important information from the Department of Homeland Security. Study in the States offers free government resources that explain the rules and regulations governing the international student process in the United States.

 

 

Steps for F1 Visa

Review appropriate I-20 information packet on the MySLC page for details and instructions, but follow the below steps, in order, to obtain an F1 student visa:

  1. Complete the I-20 Application and gather supporting financial documents
  2. Email the application and supporting documents to the DSO
  3. Receive your I-20 form from Sarah Lawrence
  4. Pay the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) fee online at www.fmjfee.com (detailed payment instructions also included with your I-20)
  5. Print official receipt of payment for SEVP fee
  6. Make an appointment at your country's nearest United States embassy or consulate for a visa interview
  7. Bring following documents to your appointment at the embassy or consulate: Passport, I-20 Form, Acceptance letter from Sarah Lawrence, Official SEVP payment receipt, original supporting financial documents (proof of ability to finance your degree)
  8. Obtain F-1 student visa from the embassy or consulate
  9. When entering the United States, bring your passport, acceptance letter from Sarah Lawrence, I-20 form, SEVP payment receipt, and supporting financial documents to the port of entry to present to the immigration officer
  10. Tell immigration officer you are entering the United States to attend school, and present your F-1 student visa
  11. Print your most recent traveler record here to Get Most Recent I-94 for proof of arrival to the U.S completed as follows: Class of Admission: F1, Admit Until Date: D/S
  12. Enter the United States to begin your studies at Sarah Lawrence!

Wait times for an appointment at an embassy or consulate may be long. Complete steps 1-5 in a timely manner to ensure you obtain your student visa before the start of the school year.