Frequently Asked Questions

My child is a new “initial” student who intends to enter the US for the first time in F-1 status – what are their enrollment requirements?

In accordance with current SEVP COVID-19 guidance, "F students in new or initial status after March 9, 2020, will not be able to enter the United States to enroll in a U.S. school as a nonimmigrant student for the spring term to pursue a full course of study that is 100 percent online." This means, those in INITIAL status who intend to come to the U.S. for the Spring 2022 semester should be allowed to apply for a visa and enter the U.S. with the appropriate documents, as long as they provide proof of enrollment in at least one 3-credit in-person or hybrid course. We recommend that your son/daughter prints a copy of their Spring 2022 course schedule from SOLAR as proof of in-person/hybrid enrollment.

This means, those in INITIAL status who intend to come to the U.S. for the fall semester should be allowed to apply for a visa and enter the U.S. with the appropriate documents, as long as they provide proof of enrollment in at least one 3-credit in-person or hybrid course. We recommend that your son/daughter prints a copy of their Fall 2021 course schedule from SOLAR as proof of in-person/hybrid enrollment.

What documents should my child prepare for their visa interview?

Your child should confirm the requirements and procedure for applying for an F-1 or J-1 visa at the embassy/consulate where they will apply. Most consulates post current information on their website. Go to https://www.usembassy.gov/ for a list of consular web sites worldwide. Additional information about the F/J visa application process, click here.

What documents should my child be prepared to show at the port of entry?

Foreign citizens seeking entry to the U.S. should be prepared to present documentation of their identity, purpose for traveling to the U.S., and ability to financially support themselves in the United States. Your child should be sure to pack the following documentation in their carry-on luggage!

• Valid passport

• Valid U.S. visa (exceptions)

• Original I-20 or DS-2019 issued for their current SBU program

• SEVIS fee receipt

• Financial support documentation (e.g., bank statement, affidavit of support, scholarship letter required for I-20 or DS-2019 issuance)

• VIS' phone number (631-632-4685)

Additional documentation may be required—e.g., proof of enrollment, admission letter/ exchange program acceptance letter; previous I-20/ DS-2019 and transcript (transfer student); etc.

What is the difference between a visa and a student’s status?

A student visa is a travel document your child will receive from a U.S. consulate or embassy before they enter the United States. Your child’s student status is what they must maintain after they are granted entrance into the United States. Both their visa and status reflect their primary purpose for coming to the United States.