Steps to Get Your F-1 Student Visa

 

1. Mail or email your application, documents, and application fee to ACE. More info here.
   
   
2. ACE will email your I-20 to you within five business days (usually within two days).
   
   
3. Pay the SEVIS 1-901 Fee online ($350) to the U.S. government. Print your receipt.
   More info is here: http://www.ice.gov/sevis/i901/ and www.fmjfee.com - SEVIS I-901 Fee
   
   
4. Complete the DS-160 Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application. Pay the $185 visa application fee to the U.S. government. Make the appointment for your F-1 visa interview. Please view these links for instructions.
   

   DHS - Steps on Getting a Student Visa
   
   

   Travel.state.gov - Student Visas

   U.S. Embassies - Find Your Country's U.S. Embassy
   
   

5. Prepare for and complete your interview.

   10 Tips for the F-1 Visa Interview & Helpful Videos
   
   

6. Obtain your visa. Make sure the information on your visa is correct. If your visa is approved, purchase your airline ticket. 
   NOTE: Immigration Regulations permit you to arrive in the U.S. not more than thirty days before the program start date (as listed on the I-20). 
   
   
7. Confirm your housing plans.
   Make hotel and airport arrival/shuttle arrangements, if necessary.
   Grossmont College International Students - Housing Info (Homestay, Apartments)
   Grossmont College International Students - Hotel InfoGrossmont College International Students - Airport Shuttle Info
   
   
8. Pack. Keep your passport, I-20, 1-901 receipt, ACE admission letter, and bank statement in your carry-on luggage.
   
   
9. When you arrive in the U.S., email ACE to let us know you are here.
   See you at orientation!

Apply now! Contact ace.grossmont@gcccd.edu with questions.