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U.S. Visa Information

As an international student at MCPHS, you must obtain the appropriate visa to enter the United States for your academic program. Visa validity varies depending on your citizenship and visa classification. Your visa must be valid when entering the U.S., but it may expire while you are in the country. If you leave the U.S. during your studies and plan to return in the same immigration status, ensure your visa is valid—or renew it before re-entry.

Note: Canadian and Bermudian citizens do not need a visa to enter the U.S., but must still follow the appropriate procedures to enter in the correct immigration status (usually F-1).

Applying for an F-1 Visa

1. Ensure Your Passport Is Valid

Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your expected U.S. entry date in order to start the visa application process.

2. Confirm Immigration Documents Are Accurate

Ensure that your immigration documents match your passport name and date of birth exactly. Contact the Immigration and International Support Services (IISS) office if corrections are needed.

F-1 Students:
  • Your Form I-20 confirms your enrollment at MCPHS and details your academic program, attendance dates, and financial requirements.
  • Dependents (spouse or children under 21) must have their own I-20s to apply for F-2 visas.
  • You may be required to pay the SEVIS I-901 fee. Ensure you have a I-901 payment receipt that matches the SEVIS ID number on your Form I-20.

3. Contact Your Nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate

You can find a list of all U.S. Embassies and Consulates sorted by country at: usembassy.gov

If you are not a Canadian or Bermudian citizen, you must apply for a visa at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Visit their website to understand their specific procedures, required documents, and processing times.

Special Note for the following Countries:
Students from Cuba, Syria, Sudan, and Iran should contact the closest U.S. Embassy early to determine where and when to apply for an F-1 visa.

 

4. Schedule a Visa Appointment

After completing Form DS-160 (Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application):
  • Schedule your visa interview as early as possible. Wait times can vary.
  • Prepare for interview questions in English about your program, plans in the U.S., and ties to your home country.
  • During U.S. and local holidays, U.S. Embassies and consulate may close or have limited hours—plan accordingly.
  • If you are renewing a visa during your program, some posts offer interview waivers. Check with your Embassy or Consulate.
More information on appointment wait times and fees can be found on the U.S. Department of State Visa Website.

5. Gather Required Documents for Your Interview

Bring the following to your interview:
  • Form DS-160 confirmation page
  • Visa application fee payment receipt
  • One photo meeting DOS Photo Requirements
  • Passport (valid at least 6 months beyond your entry date)
  • Additional documentation depending on visa type, such as:
F-1 Students:
  • Form I-20 issued by MCPHS
  • I-901 SEVIS Fee Receipt
  • Acceptance letter from MCPHS
  • Financial documents showing you can cover tuition and expenses
  • Any additional documents required by your Embassy/consulate
Because F-1 is a nonimmigrant visa, you must prove your intent to return home after your studies. Be prepared to discuss this and provide supporting documents, if necessary.

6. Understand Administrative Processing (Security Clearance)

Your visa application may be placed in Administrative Processing if additional security checks are required. Administrative Processing is not a visa denial.

This is common for:
  • Students in sensitive fields listed on the Technology Alert List (TAL)
  • Applicants with past immigration violations or legal issues
  • Situations where the consulate needs additional time to complete necessary checks and reviews.
Processing time can range from a few days to three months or more. Plan accordingly, especially during high-demand periods like winter break.
Not sure if you’re at risk for delays? Contact IISS for guidance.

7. If Your Visa Is Denied

Visa denials are difficult to reverse. If your application is denied:
  • Request a written explanation from the Embassy, if a letter is not provided upon notification of visa denial.
  • Review the Visa Denials section of the DOS website
  • Contact the Immigration Services Office for support and advice for reapplying

8. Schedule Travel to the U.S.

Once your visa is approved, you may make travel arrangements. Review our Entering the U.S. webpage for guidance.
  • F-1 Students (and their F-2 Dependents) may enter the U.S. up to 30 days before the program start date listed on the I-20.
  • If you cannot arrive on time, contact the IISS immediately to request updated documents or special entry authorization.
If you have any questions or need help at any point in the visa process, please contact the MCPHS Immigration and International Support Services. We’re here to help you navigate the journey to campus.