International Students - I-20 and Visa

Request an I-20

Benedictine College issues I-20s to all international students. International students will need an I-20 in order to apply for an F-1 student visa. We are generally able to issue an I-20 within two weeks of receiving all the following documents:

  • All documents necessary for freshman, transfer or one-year-exchange admission.
  • Copy of your passport picture page.
  • Pay your enrollment fee here.
  • Please complete a SEVIS transfer form if you will be transferring from another U.S. school.

Applying for my F-1 Student Visa

Once you have received the enrollment packet from Benedictine that contains your I-20, you are ready to apply for your student visa. There are two fees associated with your student visa: SEVIS Fee and Visa Application Fee. After completing the visa application, you will schedule an in-person interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in your country. Make sure to check if additional documents are required in your country for the interview. Prepare and take the following documents with you to the U.S. Embassy or Consulate:

  • DS-160 Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application Form
  • A passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended period of stay in the U.S.
  • Your SEVIS I-901 Fee Receipt
  • Receipt for the visa application fee
  • School acceptance letter
  • Financial evidence that shows you have sufficient funds to cover your tuition and living expenses during your expected period of stay.
  • Two 2” x 2” photographs in the prescribed format (see www.travel.state.gov for photo requirements)
  • Any information that proves that you will return to your home country after finishing your studies in the United States. This may include proof of property, family, or other ties to your community.

If you attending Benedictine College through the International Student Exchange Program (ISEP) on a J-1 visa, you will receive the DS-2019 directly from ISEP. All other documents; official accept letter and enrollment packet will come from Benedictine College.

In the Visa interview

Remain calm and answer all of the Visa Officer's questions openly and honestly. Review our Ten Points to Remember for tips and suggestions.

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