As an International Student you have to make sure that you are in status.

• Keep your passport valid at all times
• Attend the school you are authorized to attend, as indicated on your I-20
• Pursue a full course of study (full-time course load)
• Maintain registration each semester (Fall and Spring) until graduation or transfer to a new school
• Do not work without permission
• Filing a timely application to extend your I-20

Also, any violations of U.S. criminal law (drug arrests, theft, presenting fraudulent immigration documents, assault, etc.), can have very serious consequences besides arrest and a fine or possible jail sentence. It could also include deportation back to your home country, and confinement while you await deportation.

OBTAINING AN F-1 AND ENTERING THE U.S.

If you are now overseas, you will need the following to apply for visa at a US Embassy or Consulate:

• your SEVIS I-20
• your SEVIS fee receipt form I-797
• Passport
• Recent photographs
• Proof of financial support
• Acceptance letter.

We suggest that you call the consulate or embassy for specific instructions before you apply. Copies of TOEFL, previous academic grades or Other test scores are helpful as well. You could visit the web site: www.travel.state.gov for specific information about specific U.S. post's policy and procedures. Current global conditions have led to longer processing times for visas in certain countries. Please consult the U.S. consulate nearest you to plan accordingly.

Your goal to convince the U.S. consul you have no intention to become a U.S. immigrant. You might be asked to prove strong economic, personal and social ties with your home country. Avoid any remarks describing dreams and goals you might have obtaining in the U.S. AFTER you have completed your academic program. A "rule" is: Never lie, but you don't have to tell the entire truth.

Be very definite about your study plans. Be prepared to say why you picked the school for which you are destined.

Be ready to describe your academic program and the kind of career or job it will help you get in your home country. Explain, if asked, why it is better to study in the U.S. than at home. Be prepared to offer facts and evidence on paper rather than discussion of your personal needs or desires.