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Once you’re enrolled at Wheaton College as an international student, your next step is to apply for either an F-1 visa (for full-time enrollment) or a J-1 visa (as an exchange student). We’re here to guide you through the U.S. student visa application process. Below is an immigration checklist, covering everything from gathering financial documents to passing your visa interview and entering the United States.

Step 1: Gather Required Documents

Prepare all documents in electronic format:
(Before submitting, please ensure all documents are saved as clear, legible PDFs.)

    • Passport biographical page (and expiration page if applicable)
    • Any previously issued I-20 or DS-2019 forms
    • Current U.S. visa (if already in the United States)
    • Passport pages for any accompanying dependents

Proof of funding for study in the U.S. Acceptable financial documentation includes:

    • Bank statement or bank letter (issued within the past 6 months)
    • Statement must include account holder’s name and date of issue
    • If the account is not in the student’s name, a sponsor letter is required confirming funds are available for study
    • Wheaton College scholarship or award letter (provided by Student Financial Services and sent directly to Center for Global Education)

Step 2: Receive Your I-20 or DS-2019

Once all documents are received and reviewed by the Center of Global Education, your Form I-20 (for F-1 visa) or DS-2019 (for J-1 exchange student visa) will be mailed to you.

    • Immigration documents are typically processed in April–May for fall entry
    • Requests are not processed more than four months before the program start date

Note: J-1 exchange students request their DS-2019 during the exchange application process and receive additional guidance from the Center for Global Education.

Step 3: Pay the SEVIS I-901 Fee

After receiving your immigration document, pay the SEVIS I-901 fee required by U.S. immigration. Note: Canadian citizens do not need a visa stamp but must still pay the SEVIS fee and request entry to the U.S. in F-1 or J-1 status.

Instructions on how to pay the SEVIS fee

Step 4: Apply for Your Visa

Apply for a U.S. student visa through the U.S. Department of State’s Consular Electronic Application Center . For instructions on how to complete the application, frequently asked questions, and important notices, please visit the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application instructions  on the Department of State’s website.

Note: Canadian citizens do not need a visa stamp but must still pay the SEVIS fee and request entry to the U.S. in F-1 or J-1 status.

Step 5: Schedule Your Visa Interview

Visa interviews may be scheduled up to 120 days before your program start date.

1. Find Your Portal: Go to the official U.S. Embassy website for your country to access their specific booking link.
2. Create an Account: Sign up and enter your DS-160 barcode number.
3. Pay the Fee: Pay the non-refundable application fee directly through the portal.
4. Pick Your Date: Select your interview date once your payment clears. (Note: Some locations require two appointments (one for fingerprints and photos and one for the interview).
5. Print Confirmation: Print your Appointment Confirmation Page to bring to the interview.

Step 6: Prepare for Your Visa Interview

Bring the following documents to your appointment (confirm requirements with your local U.S. embassy or consulate):

Below is a general check list:

      • Passport valid at least six months into the future
      • Original Form I-20 or Form DS-2019 (with your signature on page 1) from Wheaton College
      • Proof of admission to Wheaton College (Admission letter)
      • Completed and signed visa application form(s)
      • Photograph(s) that meet the U.S. Department of State photo requirements
      • Receipt of visa fee(s) payment
      • Receipt of SEVIS I-901 fee payment
      • Evidence of funding sufficient to cover your tuition and living expenses during the first year of your program (please confirm exactly what kind of documents are acceptable with the consulate or embassy)
      • Any information that proves that you will return to your home country after finishing your studies in the U.S. This may include proof of property, family or other ties to your community and country.

Step 7: Enter the United States

Once your visa is approved, you may travel to the U.S. You may enter up to 30 days before the program start date listed on your I-20 or DS-2019. Present your documents at the port of entry to request F-1 or J-1 status.

Visa Questions?

If you have questions about applying for your student visa, contact your local U.S. embassy or consulate. For Wheaton-specific questions, please reach out to [email protected]