Student Visa Application Information

To study in the United States, you will need to apply for a visa at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Most international students come to the U.S. on an F-1 visa, while some come on J-1 visas. Obtaining a visa takes time. We recommend to begin the process well before classes start. To see how long the visa process takes in your country, read the Department of State’s visa wait time information.

If you have received an I-20 or DS-2019 from Farmingdale State College, here are your next steps:

Pay your I-901 SEVIS Fee 

All F-1 international students and J-1 exchange visitors must pay the I-901 SEVIS Fee. SEVIS is the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System. The I-901 SEVIS fee is separate from the visa fee. The SEVIS I-901 fee is a government fee that must be paid after you receive your I-20 or DS-2019 and before you can apply for your visa.

Students with a transfer I-20 are not required to pay the I-901 SEVIS fee again.

Visit Student and Exchange Visitor (SEVP) for information on the I-901 SEVIS Fee.

The SEVIS fee can be paid online at www.fmjfee.com.

Applying for a Student Visa

Complete the Nonimmigrant Visa Application Form DS-160.  

Contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate in your country for information on application requirements, procedures, and processing time. The U.S. Department of State is responsible for issuing student visas. Schedule an interview at your nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

Pay the Visa Application Fee.  Check travel.state.gov for the most up to date information of application fees.

The U.S. Embassy or Consulate website will outline all of the necessary documents you will need to apply for your visa. Requirements and procedures vary from country to country. However, be prepared to present at least the following documents to the U.S. Embassy or Consulate:

• The I-20 (for F-1 visa) issued by FSC, or the DS-2019 (for J-1 visa) issued by FSC or your sponsoring agency
• A passport valid for at least six months beyond your entry to the U.S.  
• Completed Visa Application (Form DS-160)
• Visa Application Fee Payment Receipt
• SEVIS I-901 Fee Payment Receipt
• The letter of admission to FSC
• Original financial documentation in English, in U.S. dollars (for example: scholarship awards, bank statements, etc.) matching the funding section on your I-20 or DS-2019
• Evidence of strong ties to your home country (cultural, social, professional, or any other aspect of your life that has a binding effect between you and your country of residence. For example: family members, a job, a steady source of income, a house, an investment, and/or bank accounts are all examples of "strong ties.") 

Helpful resources

For more information and tips for applying for a student visa, please visit NAFSA Ten Points to Remember.

Study in the States: APPLYING FOR A VISA TO TRAVEL TO THE UNITED STATES

NOTE: Canadian students do not need to apply for a U.S. visa.