Applying for the Visa
International students who receive an I-20 from CGU are eligible to apply for an F-1 visa. The F-1 nonimmigrant visa status allows international visitors to study in the United States for the duration of the degree program as listed on the I-20. Once an I-20 (or I-20s, if dependents are included) is issued, you can schedule an appointment at your local U.S Embassy or Consulate office. You should allow at least one to two months to complete this process.
F-1 visas are issued up to 120 days prior to the program start date.
Before Booking a Visa Appointment
Prior to booking an appointment, we recommend the following steps:
- Review the following site for a step by step process to study in the United States: Study in the States: Your Guide to Studying in the States
- Review the following websites to apply for a student visa at your local US Embassy or Consulate:
- Pay the required SEVIS I-901 Fee. The SEVIS I-901 fee receipt is required during visa appointment. To pay the fee, you will need to know the school code (LOS214F00805000) and your SEVIS number listed on your I-20. The SEVIS I-901 fee is only charged to the F-1 student. Dependents are not required to pay the fee.
- Students experiencing visa delays outside of the processing time stated by the US Consulate should contact international@cgu.edu for assistance.
After receiving your F-1 visa, you can schedule your flight to the U.S. New visa holders can enter the U.S. within 30 days of the I-20 program start date.
Visa Exemptions
Citizens from Canada and Bermuda do not need to apply for a F-1 visa. However, an I-20 from CGU and SEVIS I-901 fee payment is required before entering the U.S. Make sure you print the copy of your SEVIS I-901 fee receipt and have it with you upon entry. Although a visa is not required for entry, Canadian and Bermudian F-1 holders must abide by F-1 regulations. F-2 dependents who are not citizens of Canada or Bermuda should apply for an F-2 visa stamp through the Embassy or Consulate.