Visa information for admitted students

Application and acceptance to Lynn is the first step for international students. You must obtain either an F-1 student visa or demonstrate that you have visa status that permits a nonresident alien to study in the U.S.

Our office of International Student Services can help you with immigration requirements, pre-arrival information, orientation and advice on academic, social, cultural and employment matters.

To apply for an F-1 student visa, you first need to obtain an I-20. This is issued through our office of International Student Services.

Submit the following documents for an I-20:

1. A copy of your passport’s biographical page; passport must be valid for a minimum of six months into the future
2. A completed Certificate of Finances form (complete sections A and D by yourself)
3. Bank letter or bank statement. This document must:
   • Confirm the availability of funds as listed under Section C of the Certification of Finances form.
   • Contain the name of the account holder and be dated within the last six months.
   • Example bank letter
4. Letter from the government, if applicable, indicating its plans to pay for education and/or living expenses for citizens abroad.

Once your I-20 form has been issued, you will be enrolled in the Student Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS). The visa application process includes the following next steps:

1. Pay the SEVIS I-901 fee payable online and print your receipt.
2. Complete the DS-160 online visa application and print the confirmation with your fee collection slip.
3. Use the fee collection slip from your submitted DS-160 visa application and pay the visa processing fee.
4. Obtain a receipt for this payment.
5. Make an appointment at your local U.S. Embassy or U.S. Consulate as soon as possible. Visa processing times vary by embassy or consulate. The U.S. Embassy can help you locate the closest embassy or consulate.
6. Review the site’s list of documents you need to bring to your interview.
7. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended date of entry into the U.S.

You may transfer from another U.S. institution on an F-1 visa if you’ve enrolled full-time at your present college/university, notify the designated school official (DSO) of your intention to transfer to Lynn, and submit the following documents to Lynn:

1. A copy of your passport’s biographical page
2. A copy of your F-1 visa page
3. Your completed Certification of Finances form
4. A bank letter
5. A completed Transfer Information form

You must begin classes within five months of the last date you attended class at your previous school or within five months of the date you participated in the Optional Practical Training.