Preparing for Your Journey to Presbyterian College
As an international student, one of your first important steps is obtaining the proper visa to study in the United States. This page will guide you through the process and requirements for securing your student visa.
Required Documentation
Upon admission to Presbyterian College, you will receive one of the following forms:
- Form I-20 (for degree-seeking students applying for an F-1 student visa)
- Form DS-2019 (for exchange students applying for a J-1 exchange visitor visa)
Important: Please review your form carefully before signing. By signing, you acknowledge your responsibilities as an international student in the United States. Verify that your name is spelled exactly as it appears on your passport and that your birth date is correct. If you find any discrepancy between the form and your passport, contact Presbyterian College’s Director of International Programs immediately.
SEVIS Fee Information
All international students must pay the SEVIS I-901 fee. This fee covers the operational costs of the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS).
For detailed information about the fee amount and payment options, please visit the Department of Homeland Security’s SEVIS webpage.
Visa Application Process
If you are a degree-seeking student, you will need to apply for an F-1 student visa. Please prepare the following documents:
- Signed and completed Form I-20 from Presbyterian College (keep all pages intact)
- Official acceptance letter from Presbyterian College
- Evidence of your intent to return to your home country after completing your studies
- This may include documentation of family ties, plans to continue a professional career in your home country, or plans to work in a family business.
- Proof of sufficient financial resources to support your studies in the U.S.
- Include the Financial Statement for International Students and bank statements that you submitted with your application
- Visa application fee (separate from the SEVIS I-901 fee)
- Fee amounts vary by location; check with your local U.S. embassy or consulate
- SEVIS I-901 fee payment receipt
- Valid passport
For the most current information on F-1 student visa regulations, please visit the U.S. Department of State webpage.
f you are participating in an exchange program, you will need to apply for a J-1 exchange visitor visa. Please prepare the following documents:
- Signed and completed Form DS-2019 from Presbyterian College (keep all pages intact)
- Documentation proving your status as an exchange visitor (such as a letter from your sponsoring agency or Presbyterian College)
- Visa application fee (separate from the SEVIS I-901 fee)
- Fee amounts vary by location; check with your local U.S. embassy or consulate
- SEVIS I-901 fee payment receipt
- Valid passport
For the most current information on J-1 exchange visitor visa regulations, please visit the U.S. Department of State J-1 webpage.
Special Instructions for Canadian Citizens
Canadian citizens do not need to apply for a visa. However, to enter the United States as a student, you must present the following documents to the immigration officer at the border:
- Form I-20 or Form DS-2019
- Proof of financial support
- SEVIS I-901 fee payment receipt
Important Notice: DO NOT enter the U.S. on a visitor (tourist) visa.
Preparing for Your Visa Interview
Most applicants will need to complete a visa interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate. Here are some tips to help you prepare:
- Schedule your interview appointment well in advance, as wait times can vary significantly depending on location and season
- Be prepared to discuss your academic plans and how they relate to your career goals
- Be ready to explain your ties to your home country and your plans to return after completing your studies
- Bring all required documentation organized in a professional manner
- Answer all questions truthfully and concisely
After Receiving Your Visa
Once you have received your visa, please notify Presbyterian College’s Office of International Programs. This will help us prepare for your arrival and ensure that all necessary arrangements are in place.
Pre-Arrival Checklist
As you prepare to travel to the United States:
- Make plans for currency exchange and banking needs
- Confirm your travel arrangements and share your itinerary with the Office of International Programs
- Arrange for housing if you will not be living on campus
- Review the orientation schedule and other important dates
- Familiarize yourself with Presbyterian College’s academic calendar
- Pack appropriate clothing for South Carolina’s climate
- Bring any necessary prescription medications (with proper documentation)