Visa and I-20s
International students wishing to study in the United States must obtain an F-1 student visa. To do so, they must meet all admission requirements and be officially admitted to the University. Upon admission, Northwest University will issue a Form I-20, which the student must present at the U.S. embassy or consulate during their visa interview.
The visa application process involves completing the necessary forms, scheduling an interview, and submitting the required documentation. Students should be aware that this process can take several weeks, potentially months depending on the location of the consulate. Students should plan accordingly to ensure they arrive in time for the start of classes. Additionally, students must pay the required SEVIS fees before their interview.
Please Note that by accepting an I-20 from NU, you agree to adhere to Northwest University’s financial and academic policies outlined in the catalog.
Steps for Obtaining a Visa
- Apply to and be admitted to the University. Upon completing all University requirements the student will receive an I-20 that allows a student to be eligible for an F-1 Visa.
- Obtain and fill out the application form for a Visa. This may be obtained at the embassy or consulate, or online at https://evisaforms.state.gov/Instructions/SchedulingSystem.asp
- Make an appointment to visit the U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Appointments can be made by telephone, mail, over the internet, or in person depending on the circumstances in your country. Be aware that wait times for appointments may be longer than in the past. You should schedule your appointment as soon as you can—no more than 180 days before the beginning of the program of study.
- Be sure to ask about required fees and how they can be paid. Application fees are non-refundable and must be paid before your appointment.
- Get all of your documentation together. Documentation required will include:
- A valid passport.
- A completed application form.
- An acceptance letter from Northwest University.
- A proof of payment for all required fees including I-901 (SEVIS Fee).
- A valid I-20.
- All financial documentation that demonstrates ability to meet the financial obligations of study in the United States. This would include bank statements, loan approvals, scholarship letters, or financial support from a sponsor. Basically, any information that demonstrates how you will pay for your education and living expenses while in the U.S.
- At the interview you will be required to submit all of the documentation listed above. The interviewer will review the application, and in many cases, the application will be reviewed in Washington, D.C. as well. In most cases, the visa will be issued within a few weeks.
- Be aware that in some cases additional reviews may be required. This may take more than 4–6 weeks.
Arrival & Departure
A visa allows you to travel from your home country to the United States. You will need to have a visa to book your travel. In addition, you will need to have your I-20 and your visa, along with your passport, to board your flight.
At the arrival hall, follow the directions for non-citizen entry. The immigration interviewer will review all of your documentation and give an immigration stamp, at which point you may proceed to baggage claim and then to US Customs.
Embassies & Consulates
If you are interested in finding an Embassy or Consulate for your home country inside the United States, please refer to the Department of State webpage that provide information for each country.
For up-to-date information regarding any regulation changes you may visit https://travel.state.gov/.
Arriving on Campus
Upon arrival at Northwest University students are required to visit the International Student Services Office in Room H-102, Hurst Library. Students need to bring their passport and their signed I-20 form.