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Obtaining The Visa

 

1. If you do not have a passport, you must obtain one from the appropriate office of your government. Your passport must be valid at least six months into the future at all times. It is your responsibility to be aware of the expiration date of your passport and to renew it at the appropriate time.

2. We recommend that you schedule an appointment at the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate as soon as possible. Processing times for visa issuance vary and may require additional time due to security checks on applications. For the latest information on visa processing, required materials, and current listings of U.S. Embassies and Consulates abroad, we recommend the following web link from the U.S. Department of State: http://usembassy.state.gov/

3. Read carefully all information on the Form I-20, especially page two. This will explain your legal responsibilities as an F-1 student in the United States. Sign the Student Certification (#11) on page 1 of Form I-20, and provide the information requested if under the age of 18.

4. With your passport, proof of financial support, Form I-20, and acceptance letter from UNC Pembroke, go to (or mail the materials to) the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Again, consult the above link for the processing procedures in your region. The U.S. Consular Officer will review your papers, and if all is in order, issue an F-1 student visa permitting you to enter the U.S. for the purpose of studying at UNC Pembroke. UNC Pembroke will be listed on the visa in your passport. Please note: if you have received a Form I-20 from more than one school, be sure to use the I-20 of the school you plan to attend when applying for your visa; the Consular Officer will only issue the visa for one Form I-20 and will cancel all other I-20s in SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System).

 

The consular officer makes the final decision on your application; his or her judgment is not subject to review.

 

Updated: Monday, July 11, 2011

 

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