Immigration and Visa Process

The U.S. government requires all international students studying in the United States to meet specific eligibility requirements for not only entry to the country, but also for the right to remain here legally while they pursue their studies. Degree seeking international students typically study in the U.S. on an F-1 visa.

F-1 Student Visa

If you intend to apply for an F-1 student visa, you will need a Form I-20, “Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status,” issued by Springfield College.

Steps to Obtain Your I-20 and Apply for the F-1 Visa

1. Submit the deposit required by the admissions office to confirm your plans to enroll in Springfield College.
2. Submit the Certification of Finances for your program, supporting financial proof, and a copy of your passport to the International Center (internationalcenter@springfield.edu).
   1. All students are required to submit financial documents that demonstrate the ability to meet the estimated cost of attendance for the first year of their program of study (including tuition, fees, and living expenses) before Springfield College can issue the immigration document Form I-20 needed to apply for an F-1 student visa.
   2. All submitted documentation must be in English or include certified translations along with original documents.
   3. The International Center will begin reviewing financial documents and issuing I-20s approximately 6 months before the start of each term. All documents should be submitted no later than 2 months before the start of your term of entry.
   4. Keep all the original documents, as you will need them for your visa application.  
3. Receiving your I-20
   1. Your I-20 will generally be issued within 1 week after receipt of acceptable documents. 
   2. The I-20 will be emailed to your Springfield College email address as a PDF. You will need to print the Form I-20 and add your signature and date for it to be official.
4. Pay the SEVIS fee
   1. Before applying for an F-1 visa, all first-time visa applicants are required to pay the SEVIS fee AND the visa application fee. They are two separate fees. Make sure to print and save the I-901 Receipt (SEVIS fee) to present during your visa appointment.
5. Apply for a Visa
   1. After you receive your immigration documents and pay the SEVIS fee, you will apply for your F-1 visa at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in your country. For how to apply for your F-1 visa, Go to the U.S. Department of State website. Do remember that the process takes time. See Visa Wait Times for more information.
   2. Please review these tips to help you prepare for your visa appointment.
6. Keep Us Informed
   1. The International Center (internationalcenter@springfield.edu) is here to support you through this process. Please let us know when you receive your visa, if you have been denied or if you are having trouble getting a visa appointment.
   2. Students who are not able to secure a visa in time to arrive on campus by the start of classes will need to defer their enrollment.