Obtaining Your U.S. Student Visa
After you are admitted to Manhattan University, International Student & Scholar Services (ISSS) will help guide you through the immigration steps required to study in the United States.
Depending on your immigration status, this process may include receiving a Form I-20 or DS-2019, paying the I-901 SEVIS fee and applying for an F-1 or J-1 visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate.
Step 1: Receive Your I-20 or DS-2019
After you have completed the required admission and immigration documentation, Manhattan University will issue the appropriate Certificate of Eligibility for your status.
Form I-20 for F-1 Students
Form I-20, the Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status, is issued to students entering the United States in F-1 status. It contains information from your Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) record.
You will use your I-20 when paying the I-901 SEVIS fee, applying for an F-1 visa, entering or reentering the United States and completing certain employment or training requests.
Form DS-2019 for J-1 Students and Scholars
Form DS-2019, the Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor Status, is issued to eligible J-1 students and scholars participating in the Exchange Visitor Program.
You will use your DS-2019 when paying the I-901 SEVIS fee, applying for a J-1 visa, entering or reentering the United States and completing eligible training or exchange activities.
Step 2: Pay the I-901 SEVIS Fee
After receiving your I-20 or DS-2019, you may be required to pay the federal I-901 SEVIS fee before applying for your visa or entering the United States.
Have your I-20 or DS-2019 available before beginning the payment process. Manhattan University's SEVIS school and program codes are:
- F-1 students: NYC214F00714000
- J-1 students and scholars: P-1-13181
Follow the current U.S. Department of Homeland Security instructions for payment methods, eligibility requirements and proof of payment.
Review I-901 SEVIS fee instructions
Step 3: Apply for Your Student Visa
If you are outside the United States and do not already have the appropriate student visa, you will generally need to apply at a U.S. embassy or consulate.
Apply as early as permitted and allow enough time for appointment availability and visa processing before the program start date listed on your I-20 or DS-2019.
Visa procedures and appointment availability vary by location. Always review the requirements of the U.S. embassy or consulate where you plan to apply.
- Find a U.S. embassy or consulate
- Review U.S. Department of State student visa information
- View visa appointment wait times
Prepare for Your Visa Interview
Requirements vary by embassy or consulate, so review the instructions for your specific appointment carefully. You may be asked to provide documents including:
- A valid passport
- Required visa application forms and photographs
- Proof of visa application fee payment
- I-901 SEVIS fee payment receipt
- Manhattan University admission letter
- Your Manhattan University I-20 or DS-2019
- Academic records and test scores, when applicable
- Proof of English proficiency, when applicable
- Documentation showing sufficient financial support
- Additional documents requested by the embassy or consulate
Preparing for Interview Questions
Your visa interview is an opportunity to explain your plans clearly and concisely. Be prepared to discuss:
- What you plan to study and why you chose Manhattan University
- Why you want to study in the United States
- How you will pay for tuition and living expenses
- Your plans after completing your program
- Your ties to your home country, when relevant to your visa classification
Interviews are typically brief, so answer questions clearly, directly and truthfully.
Visa Delays or Denials
Visa processing times vary, and some applications may require additional administrative processing. Applying early can help reduce the impact of unexpected delays.
If Your Visa Is Delayed
If you are told that your SEVIS record cannot be located or that additional immigration documentation is needed, contact International Student & Scholar Services. Include the date and location of your visa interview and any information provided by the consular officer.
If Your Visa Is Denied
If your visa application is denied, the consular officer should provide information about the basis for the decision. Contact ISSS with the date and location of your interview and the reason provided so the University can advise you on appropriate next steps.
Students from Canada and Bermuda
Students and scholars from Canada and Bermuda may have different visa requirements. Although a visa may not be required for entry in F-1 or J-1 status, you must still meet the applicable immigration requirements and present the required documentation when entering the United States.
Before traveling, review current federal requirements and make sure you have your passport, Manhattan University admission documentation, I-20 or DS-2019, proof of SEVIS fee payment and required financial documentation.
Dependents
Spouses and children who receive an F-2 or J-2 immigration document generally do not pay a separate I-901 SEVIS fee. Review current federal requirements before applying for dependent visas or traveling to the United States.
Additional Visa and Immigration Resources
Western Union Payment Instructions
International students and exchange visitors may use the instructions below to complete the I-901 SEVIS fee payment process through Western Union. Please select the appropriate guide based on your visa type.