Immigration Steps
Congratulations on your admission to EIU!
Upon admission to Eastern Illinois University (EIU), initiate the immigration process. Please note that the following guide is general in nature and may not be applicable to your specific situation. Immigration requirements vary by country, and additional documentation may be necessary. Carefully review the consular instructions or consult with an immigration lawyer if needed to ensure compliance with the specific requirements for your country.
Step 1: Receive Your Form I-20 or DS-2019
- Admission to EIU:
- After acceptance to EIU, you will receive Form I-20 (F-1 visa) and a Form I-20 (F-2 Visa) for your dependent if applicable. Review these forms carefully for accuracy and sign them in the designated areas.
These documents are vital for your visa application and travel. Store them securely and bring them to your visa interview.
Step 2: Pay the SEVIS Fee
- Locate Your SEVIS ID:
- Found on the top right corner of your I-20 or DS-2019, this ID is necessary for the SEVIS fee payment.
- Pay the SEVIS Fee:
Pay online and print the payment receipt for your records.
* Please Note: A prospective student from Cameron, Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria or Gambia must pay by money order, Western Union Quick Pay, or certified check drawn from a U.S. bank. All other applicants can make a credit card payment on FMJfee.com.
Step 3: Complete the DS-160 Form
- Access the DS-160 Form:
- Fill Out the Form:
- Submit the Form:
- After submission, print the DS-160 confirmation page with the barcode. This is required for your visa interview. After submission, you will no longer be able to view or edit the form, so ensure you review it carefully before submitting.
Step 4: Schedule Your Visa Interview
- Website: U.S. Embassy Locator
- Locate the U.S. Embassy or Consulate you have choose while submitting form DS-160.
- Register for an account, pay the visa application fee ($160 for F-1/J-1 visas), and book your visa interview.
- Prepare for the Interview and be ready to present all required documents and answer questions about your study plans, financial status, and intent to return home.
Gather Required Documents for Interview:
- Passport: Valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay.
- Form I-20 or DS-2019: Signed and issued by EIU.
- DS-160 Confirmation Page: With the barcode.
- Visa Application Fee Receipt: Proof of payment.
- SEVIS Fee Payment Receipt: Proof of payment.
- Acceptance Letter from EIU: To show your admission to EIU.
- Financial Evidence: Bank statements, scholarship letters, or financial affidavits.
- Academic Transcripts and Certificates: Proof of your previous education.
- Additional Documents: If applicable, include property deeds, employment letters, or any other documents proving ties to your home country.
Attend the Visa Interview
- Arrive early and follow all security protocols. Dress professionally and bring all required documents in an organized manner.
- Answer questions clearly and honestly. Be ready to explain your study plans, financial status, and how your education will be used upon returning home.
- You may be required to provide fingerprints and a photograph. Follow the instructions provided by the consular staff.
Step 5: Visa Approval and Passport Return
- Collect your passport with the visa from the consulate or a designated location, or have it mailed to you.
- Ensure your visa type, duration, and personal information are correct.
Step 6: Prepare for Your Arrival in the U.S.
- Plan your travel to the U.S. considering the start date of your program and the earliest entry date allowed (typically 30 days before the program start date for F-1 students).
- Have your passport with the visa, Form I-20 or DS-2019, SEVIS fee receipt, and EIU acceptance letter ready for inspection upon arrival.
- Review the U.S. Customs and Border Protection - Arrival Procedures to be prepared for entry into the U.S.
Related Links:
F Visa Advisement: https://www.eiu.edu/international/fvisas.php
FAQ
What is a Form I-20?
All F and M students that study in the United States need a Form I-20, "Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status". Once fully admitted to Eastern Illinois University, international students will receive a Form I-20 from their designated school official (DSO). Once you receive a Form I-20, please print and sign to bring to a visa interview.
What is SEVIS?
SEVIS is the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System, under the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). For more information, please visit: https://studyinthestates.dhs.gov/students/prepare/students-and-the-form-i-20
How do I pay the SEVIS fee?
To pay the SEVIS fee, please go to: https://www.fmjfee.com/i901fee/index.html. You will need to bring a receipt for payment of the SEVIS fee to a visa interview.
What is a DSO?
A DSO is a Designated School Official. You can contact the Office of International Students and Scholars at:
2138 Blair Hall
600 Lincoln Avenue
Charleston, IL 61920
(217) 581-2321
international@eiu.edu
I submitted all my documents. When do I receive a Form I-20?
Once all your documents have been submitted, please allow 5-7 business days for a decision to be made on your file. If you are admitted, you will receive an admission letter and a Form I-20 electronically to the email on file.
Please do not submit your documents more than once - this prolongs processing time.
When do I receive a status update?
You can view the status of your application on your MyEIU portal.
I've received my I-20. Now what?
You will receive visa tips on securing your visa. You can also view pre-arrival and Orientation information on the following site: https://www.eiu.edu/international/pre-departure.php
I am an international transfer student. When will I get my I-20?
Once your SEVIS record has been verified and registered, you will receive your Form I-20. You will be notified via email.
