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Page updated:
3/27/07
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Frequently Asked Questions About I-20 and DS-2019
When ISA receives your completed application, deposits, and financial certification documents, your application will be processed and an acceptance packet will be sent to you. It typically takes about two weeks for your I-20 documents to arrive. [ top of page ]
2. Q - How do I apply if I am outside of the United States? You first must apply to study at a USCIS-approved school
in the United States. When you [ top of page ]
3. Q - Can I stay in the United States if my student visa has expired? Yes, as long as you are student in good standing and have not violated your status, you may legally remain in the United States with an expired F-1 visa. Your I-94 will also be labeled D/S. [ top of page ]
4. Q - Can I renew my visa while outside the USA in another country other than my home country? Yes, but the Department of State recommends that you apply for a visa in your home country. For more information about visa applications visit the Department of State web site at www.UnitedStatesVisas.gov. Before you travel to a country other than yours to renew your visa, contact the U.S. embassy or consulate. If you exit the United States and apply for a visa, you cannot return to the United States until the visa is issued. This could require a lengthy stay. If the visa is denied, you will not be able to return to the United States as a student. [ top of page ]
5. Q - Can I go to Canada or Mexico and apply for a new visa? In some cases, you can. Contact the individual U.S. embassy or consulate in Canada or Mexico. However, you cannot return to the United States until your visa is issued. If the visa is denied, you will not be able to return to the United States as a student. For more information about visa applications visit the Department of State website at www.UnitedStatesVisas.gov. You can also visit www.nvars.com, the site that provides appointments for consulates in Canada and Mexico. Applying for a new visa is not the same as automatic visa revalidation. You cannot apply for a new visa and take advantage of automatic visa revalidation at the same time. [ top of page ]
6. Q - How do I apply for DS 2019? Exchange Visitors Visas The Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) provides
two nonimmigrant visa categories for persons to participate in exchange
visitor programs in the United States. The "J" visa is
for educational and cultural exchange programs designated by the
Department of State, Bureau of Consular Affairs. Participants in
the "J" program must present a Form DS-2019 The "J" exchange visitor program is designed to promote the interchange of persons, knowledge, and skills in the fields of education, arts, and sciences. Participants include students at all academic levels; trainees obtaining on-the-job training with firms, institutions, and agencies; teachers of primary, secondary, and specialized schools; professors coming to teach or do research at institutions of higher learning; research scholars; professional trainees in the medical and allied fields; and international visitors coming for the purpose of traveling, observing, consulting, conducting research, training, sharing, or demonstrating specialized knowledge or skills, or participating in organized people-to-people programs. "J" exchange visitors must have sufficient scholastic preparation to participate in the designated program, including knowledge of the English language, or the exchange program must be designed to accommodate non-English speaking participants. Note: We can only issue the DS-2019 for students/scholars who intend to enroll at TTU or facilitate research at TTU. [ top of page ]
7. Q- What specific information do I need to provide to get my I-20? You must submit your application form with proof of financial evidence. It can be:
[ top of page ]
8. Q - Do I have to go to the embassy or consulate? No, every country has different requirements. You must check with the American embassy in your country for the latest information. Currently all F-1 visa applicants in all countries must apply for an interview. You must call the U.S. Embassy in your country to make an appointment for this interview. [ top of page ]
9. Q - How can I improve my chances to be approved for a visa?
10. Q - How long does it take to get a visa? The amount of time to obtain a visa varies and is affected by many factors. For more information on visa wait times provided by the U.S. government, visit the Visa Information for Temporary Visitors. [ top of page ]
11. Q - How soon can I come to the United States with an F-1 visa? You may arrive up to 30 days before the start of school as indicated on your I-20. [ top of page ]
12. Q - Should I get health insurance? Yes, it is recommended! You must talk to the International Students Advisor for more information about your student health insurance options. [ top of page ] Program Extension: 13. Q - What do I do if my I-20 or DS-2029 form is going to expire? An F-1 student is admitted to the U.S. for "duration
of status," that is, to complete an educational program. However,
if a student must remain in an educational program beyond the date
originally estimated for completion of the program (as stated in
Item 5 on the initial I-20 form issued to begin the program) the
student must comply with DHS procedures for program extension. Application
must be made to the Designated School Officer prior to the completion
date (item 5) on your I-20 form.
An F-1 student is eligible for program extension
if he or she (1) has continually maintained status and (2) delay
in completion is caused by compelling academic or medical reasons,
such as changes of major or research topics, unexpected research
problems, or documented illnesses. The regulations add that "delays
caused by academic probation or suspension are not acceptable reasons
for program extension." A student who fails to complete his
or her program within the time prescribed in Item 5 of the I-20 and
who cannot meet the eligibility criteria for program extension is
considered to be out-of-status.
Any student who needs a program extension must apply
to the Office of International Student Affairs within the 30-day
period preceding the expiration date on his or her I-20 OR DS-2019.
The student will be required to furnish new financial documentation
to support the extension of studies.
[ top of page ] Program
Extension (PDF)
Affidavit of Support (PDF) [ top of page ]
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