Visa Application Process

• Applying for a visa
• Maintaining your Visa

 

The information below is to aid you through the visa application process. If at any time you have questions about the student visa process, please visit http://www.ice.gov/sevis/index.htm.

Applying for a visa

1. First Step

SCIT encourages you to begin the visa application process as soon as you receive your Form I-20 from the school. Once you have received your Form I-20, you will need to fill out the I-901 form and make your payment. To do so visit: http://www.ice.gov/sevis/i901/index.htm.

2. Where to Apply

You should apply for your student visa at the U.S. embassy or consulate in your country of permanent residence. You can find the address of the appropriate U.S. embassy or consulate office at usembassy.state.gov.

3. Required Documents

Before you begin, please verify the required documents you need to take to the U.S. embassy or consulate by calling the embassy or consulate directly. Required documents usually include:

• A completed and signed application (Form DS-156). Blank forms are available without charge at all U.S. embassy and consular offices.
• A receipt showing the visa application fee (I-901) was paid.
• A passport valid for travel to the U.S. and with validity date at least six months beyond your intended period of stay in the U.S.
• One 2"x2" square photograph showing full face, without head covering, against a light background.
• A Form I-20 from SCIT.
• Evidence of your ability to provide sufficient funds for the first full year of study, including a copy of your financial affidavit and original copies of bank statements or sponsorship letters.

Maintaining your Visa

1. Report to the SCIT Admissions Office and register for classes

2. Obtaining Authorization

You must obtain written authorization in advance from SCIT before doing any of the following:

• Defering your program start date.
• Changing your student status
• Extending your enrollment
• Terminating your enrollment
• Changing your program
• Transferring to a different school

3. Keeping Information Current

Inform SCIT within 10 days of the occurrence of any of the following events:

• A change in your name or citizenship
• A change in your U.S. address
• A change in your foreign address
• A change in your financial information
• Adding a dependent
• A change in a dependent’s information
• Terminating an individual’s dependent status
• Reactivating a dependent

4. Additional Obligations

Keep a valid passport at all times

Notify SCIT immediately if your Form I-20 or passport is lost or stolen