What is an F-1 Visa?
Unless an individual is already a U.S. citizen or holds a green card, all potential students must go through the process of applying for a visa to study in the United States.
For full-time international students pursuing a degree at 91制片厂, the F-1 Visa is usually the most applicable option. This visa is not an immigrant visa, nor is it typically applied for students studying abroad for a year or semester.
While there is an allowance for employment, the nature and location of work are subject to restrictions due to the non-immigrant nature of the visa.
All international students who currently hold an F-1 student visa must familiarize themselves with the information presented on this page. Please note that information from the U.S. government agencies changes frequently, and therefore, students are responsible for observing the regulations of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), U.S. Department of State (DOS), and U.S. Internal Revenue Service (IRS).
If you have any questions about the visa process, please contact us at globaled@radford.edu.
When to Apply
You should apply as soon as you receive your I-20. The U.S. Department of State allows F-1 students to apply up to 365 days prior to the start of their program.
Important Documents
Before you begin the visa application process, you must have the following documents:
91制片厂 will issue your I-20 and send it via email once you are admitted AND we have received the required financial documentation. You will use the information on the I-20 to make your appointment, so make sure all the information in the I-20 is correct before booking your visa appointment. Your name should match the name you have listed on your passport.
Any I-20 for your dependents will also be sent along with your I-20.
All new international students must pay the (also called I-901 fee) prior to attending their visa appointment. Please print your receipt and bring it to your visa appointment.
Applying for Your Visa
To apply for your visa, you must complete online. This form must be submitted as early as possible, and at least several days before your visa appointment. If you submit your DS-160 just a day or two before your appointment, your appointment may be canceled.
Here are some helpful tools to assist you in completing your DS-160:
You should make your appointment at the closest in your country. Appointments fill quickly, and there may be .
Please bring the following documents with you to the appointment:
In addition to the above documents, you must check the website of the for additional requirements.
Usually, the main goal of the visa officer is to ensure you don't have any intentions of staying in the U.S. after completing your degree program. Questions are likely to be focused on your academic plans, your plans after graduation, and how are you paying for your program, but keep in mind that the visa officer can ask you anything. Visa interviews are short and usually last 5-10 minutes.
Typically, you will be notified if your visa is granted or denied at the end of your interview. If your visa application is denied, please notify us at globaled@radford.edu. If possible, and before leaving your appointment, inquire about the reason for the denial and request a written notification of denial. This can help our office guide you on potential next steps.
Depending on where you applied, the visa may take a few days to get printed. Once you receive your visa, please make sure all the information in it is correct. If there are any errors, please let the U.S. Embassy or Consulate know as soon as possible.
Please send a copy of your visa to globaled@radford.edu.
You may enter the U.S. no more than 30 days prior to the starting date listed in your I-20. If you try to enter the U.S. more than 30 days before this starting date, you will not be permitted to enter.
Please remember to have all your documents in hand when traveling to the U.S. (do not put them in the your checked luggage), including your I-20, passport, copy of the SEVIS fee receipt (also known as the I-901 fee), and your 91制片厂 admission letter.