An important final step for international students is to complete required immigration paperwork. Once you have been admitted to a school and expressed your commitment to attend, you must officially send in a deposit, usually by May 1st. Some schools will ask you to begin the immigration paperwork process prior to depositing in order to ensure that you receive your visa on time. You will first be asked to submit a Declaration of Finances form, which outlines how you plan on paying for your academic program and other expenses for one year. This form requires you to submit official bank documents stating that you have a certain amount (determined by the school you are attending) of funds available either from your parents, official sponsor, or those granted to you through financial aid. You also may be asked to submit a copy of your passport with your Declaration of Finances Form. Once the university receives your Declaration of Finances form, you will be issued an I-20 Form. This is the official US government form you will need in order to apply for F-1 student visa. You will have to apply for your visa at the nearest U.S. Consulate. It can sometimes take weeks to obtain a visa interview, so it is important to fill out all of your immigration paperwork in a timely manner.
Immigration Process for Student Visas to the USA
Our Team
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Mark Montgomery
A former college professor and administrator, Mark Montgomery, PhD, is a college insider who can demystify universities and deliver solid advice to students and their families.
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Katherine Price
Katherine Price has over 10 years of experience in admissions and student affairs at selective colleges and universities that enable her to counsel students for success.
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Cara Ray
Cara Ray is a former admissions officer, and has a Master's degree in Higher Education. She enjoys helping students navigate their educational path, whether toward small liberal arts schools or large public universities.
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Juliet Giglio
Juliet Giglio, M.F.A, heads our upstate New York office. In addition to general college advising, Juliet specializes in working with aspiring performing artists. She holds a professional certificate in college counseling.
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Andrea Aronson
Leading our New Jersey office, Andrea Aronson holds an MBA from the Wharton School and is a candidate for a certificate in college counseling from UCLA. As a marketing expert, she assists all students in presenting themselves in the best possible light.
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Heather Creech
Heather Creech is an award-winning teacher who with over 15 years of experience in helping students with special needs transition from high school to higher education.