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If you want to study full-time (18 hours or more a week), make sure you enter the US with an F-1 student visa. You may also be able to study in our programs on other visas, such as A-1, J-1, or H-1. However, if you have certain types of visas, such as a tourist visa, you may not be able to study.

If you are not on an F-1 visa, you may be able to study part-time in the Campus Intensive English Program or take individual courses in the Online Program or Evening and Weekend Program depending on the restrictions of your particular visa type.

If you are in the US on an F-1 visa and are transferring from another school, be sure to send us your completed Transfer-In Form along with your UW IELP application and supporting documents. Download the Transfer-In Form... »

Once we have processed your application, we will send you a Visa Eligibility Form (I-20). If you are a transfer student, we will issue your new I-20 on new student registration day at the start of the quarter.

After you have your I-20, you need to do the following:

1. Make a Visa Appointment
   You will need to make a visa appointment with the American Embassy or Consulate in your country. See current visa wait times... »
   
   
2. Pay the I-901 SEVIS Fee ($200). Download I-901 Form... »
   Read the SEVIS I-901 Fee Frequently Asked Questions for more information about this fee.
   
   
3. Prepare for the Visa Interview:
   
   
   • Anticipate that your interview will be in English. Practice beforehand.
     
     
   • Be prepared to answer questions. Here are some common questions:
     
     How are you going to finance your study in the US?
     
     What ties do you have to your country, e.g., property, assets or business, offer of a job upon return, family ties or social ties, for example, political office, membership in local societies and clubs.
     
     What ways can you "guarantee" your return to your country?
     
     What are your educational plans in the US? For example, "I plan to study English for ten weeks, and then…"
     
     
   • Keep in mind that the interview will be short, so make a good first impression.
     
     
   • Bring documentation with you to prove your claims (e.g., finances, ties to your country).
     
     
   • Bring your I-20.

Be sure to check the Pre-Departure Checklist carefully before you leave for the US.

In case your visa is denied, find out the reason. All visa officers are required to give a reason for denial. Then contact us. There may be something our advisor can do to help. Also, check the government's Visa Denials website.

Good luck and have a good interview!