OBTAINING AN F-1 OR J-1 VISA AND ENTERING THE U.S.

If you are now overseas you may apply for your visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate. You will need your SEVIS I-20 or DS-2019, your passport, recent photographs, proof of financial support and acceptance letter.  We suggest that you call the consulate or embassy for specific instructions before you apply. Copies of TOEFL, previous academic grades or other test scores are helpful as well. You could visit the web site: www.travel.state.gov for specific information about specific U.S. post's policy and procedures. Current global conditions have led to longer processing times for visas in certain countries. Please consult the U.S. consulate nearest you to plan accordingly.

Your goal is to convince the U.S. consul you have no intention to become a U.S. immigrant.  you might be asked to prove strong economic, personal and social ties with your home country.  Avoid any remarks describing dreams and goals you might have obtaining in the U.S. AFTER you have completed your academic program.  A "rule" is: Never lie, but you don't have to tell the entire truth.

If your application is denied, with all respect and kindness, request a written list of needed documentation to overcome this refusal and, if possible, the officer's name. Then notify the OIS.

As we mentioned before, if you already have an unexpired F-1 or J-1 visa stamp in your passport, you may use it along with Fordham's I-20 or DS-2019 to enter the U.S.  It does not matter if your previous school's name is noted on the visa, as long as you actually attended the institution for which it was issued originally.