How to Obtain a Student Visa

Applicants will need the following when applying for a student visa (note: the process may vary or require additional steps, depending on the applicant's country and embassy or consulate):

Items Needed for a Student Visa

  1. Application Fee: Applicant will pay a non-refundable application fee. This means that if the visa does not get approved, applicant will not get fees refunded.
  2. Form DS-160: All applicants will need to complete and submit the online application for a non-immigrant visa, DS-160.
  3. Form DS-157: A DS-157 form for all males aged 16-45.
  4. Valid Passport: A passport valid for travel to the United States and with a validity date at least six months beyond applicant's intended period of stay in the United States. If more than one person is included in the passport, each person desiring a visa must make an application.

Arriving in the U.S.

Students entering the U.S. to study for the first time are not allowed to enter the U.S. more than 30 days before the program start date indicated on the I-20 form. Students are expected to present the documents listed below to Customs and Border Protection (CBP) upon arrival in the U.S.:

  • Passport (including sealed envelope of attached immigration documents if applicable)
  • Original I-20
  • Evidence of financial resources
  • Admission letter
  • SEVIS fee receipt

Once the student has been given clearance by CBP to enter the U.S., the student’s next course of action is to contact the Designated School Official (DSO) at PHSC and schedule an appointment to meet and have their file updated.

Meeting with the Designated School Official (DSO)

Upon meeting with the DSO, the student is asked to bring their:

  • PHSC admission letter
  • Passport indicating F1 visa status
  • Original I-20
  • SEVIS receipt fee
  • Proof of health insurance coverage (accident/death-to transport body to home country, if applicable)

Visiting Home Country

Students planning to visit their homeland during winter or spring break are expected to notify the DSO of their travel plans.