Applying For a Visa
To attend Wellesley College as an international student, you must do some extra planning to ensure a timely and smooth entry into the United States.
You must comply with institutional and United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) procedures.
This is a brief and general overview of the steps you need to take to obtain a student visa once you have been admitted to Wellesley College. Immigration regulations change frequently. Please see the U.S. State Department embassy website for the U.S. Embassies in your country and Department of Homeland Security website for more detailed information on applying for a student visa.
Following these simple steps will facilitate your visa application process and entry to the U.S.:
Step 1:Complete and Send a Copy of Your Certification of Finances (COF) to the Slater International Center
You should receive the blank COF form with your offer of admission. It can also be downloaded here (link to COF). Instructions on how to complete the COF are on the form. Please remember that we do not need the original documents. Keep your originals for your visa interview and send us scanned or faxed copies.
Step 2: Attach a Copy of Your Passport ID Page
You must attach a copy of your passport identification page and expiration page to the COF in order to ensure that the Form I-20 will be issued with the exact name indicated on your passport.
Step 3: Receive Your Form I-20
Once we have received the required documents and verified your financial support we will issue you a Form I-20 to apply for an F-1 visa. The Form I-20 and instructions on how to apply for a visa will be sent to you by express mail within one week of receipt of the completed documentation (COF, supporting financial documents, and copy of passport ID page.)
Step 4: Pay the SEVIS Fee
You must pay the SEVIS fee at least three days in advance of your visa interview. For more detailed information about the SEVIS fee and how to pay it please download our handout or visit http://www.ice.gov/sevis/i901/index.htm
If you are receiving financial aid from the College, the College will pay your SEVIS fee and send you the receipt that you will need to apply for your visa.
Step 5: Schedule a Visa Interview at the Nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate
Contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate in the country of your citizenship or permanent residency to schedule a visa interview. Interview scheduling times vary from country to country so please check the U.S. embassy website nearest you for details.
Helpful Links
Homeland Security - Study in the States
