Gather all documentation for the visa application

Below are suggestions for the visa application process. Each U.S. Consulate or Embassy has different requirements to be presented during an in-person interview.  Check the specific website of the consulate or embassy for which you will use to apply for your visa. It is recommended that you have all documentation ready even if the consulate official does not ask for them.

• Original SJSU Form I-20 signed and dated by you and issued for Initial Attendance
• SEVIS I-901 Fee receipt. Pay the SEVIS fee and print out the online receipt at least 3 business days before your visa interview date.
• SJSU Admission Letter
• SJSU official transcript
• Proof of current course registration, if enrolled
• Your original passport
• Proof of financial support. It can be the same financial documents submitted to ISSS; you may be asked to provide additional financial documentation 
• Proof of ties to your home country

Apply for an F-1 visa.

For more information, visit the U.S. Department of State visa website. 

• Complete the DS-160 Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application
• Print and keep the DS-160 barcode (confirmation) page.
• Follow the U.S. Consulate or Embassy instructions to schedule a visa interview, pay the visa application processing fee.
• Check the U.S. Consulate or Embassy’s website if additional documentation is required.
• Attend your visa interview.
  

Enter the U.S. with your new F-1 visa and SEVIS I-20 from SJSU. You are allowed to enter the U.S. up to 30 days before the program start date listed on the I-20.

Report your new F-1 status to ISSS before the program start date.

• Attend Global Spartan Welcome.
• Complete New Student Document Check-in. Submit a copy of your passport, F-1 visa, and I-94 record of arrival (page 1 only) for review, along with your current mailing address and emergency contact information.  You will receive an email reminder to complete this step.
  
  

Inform ISSS if your F-1 visa is denied and you’ve re-entered the U.S. with your previous visa.