Non-citizens applying for a US study permit must submit a valid passport, Form I-20 issued by the educational institution, and proof of financial support. They also need to provide an acceptance letter from the US school, evidence of ties to their home country, and a completed DS-160 visa application form. Supporting documents like transcripts, standardized test scores, and SEVIS fee payment receipt are commonly required to ensure eligibility for the study permit.
What Documents Does a Non-Citizen Need for a US Study Permit?
| Number | Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | I-20 Form (Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status) | Non-citizens require an I-20 Form (Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status) issued by a SEVP-certified school to apply for a US study permit, which formally certifies their admission and eligibility for an F-1 or M-1 visa. This document is essential for the visa application process and must be presented at the US port of entry along with a valid passport and proof of financial support. |
| 2 | SEVIS Fee Receipt | Non-citizens applying for a US study permit must provide the SEVIS fee receipt as proof of payment for the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System, which confirms enrollment and supports visa issuance. This document is crucial alongside the I-20 or DS-2019 form and a valid passport to authenticate the applicant's status and eligibility for a student visa. |
| 3 | DS-160 Confirmation Page | The DS-160 Confirmation Page is a crucial document required for a US study permit application, proving the completion of the online nonimmigrant visa application. This page contains a unique barcode that the US Embassy or Consulate scans to retrieve the applicant's information and must be printed and presented during the visa interview. |
| 4 | F-1 Visa Stamp | Non-citizens applying for a US study permit must provide a valid Form I-20 issued by a SEVP-certified school, a properly completed DS-160 application form, and their valid passport for the F-1 visa stamp. They also need to submit the SEVIS fee payment receipt, proof of financial support, and evidence of ties to their home country to demonstrate intent to return after studies. |
| 5 | Proof of Financial Support Letter | A non-citizen applying for a US study permit must submit a Proof of Financial Support Letter demonstrating sufficient funds to cover tuition, living expenses, and other costs during their stay. This letter often includes bank statements, scholarship awards, or financial sponsor affidavits to verify the applicant's ability to finance their education and maintain legal status. |
| 6 | Sponsor Affidavit of Support | Non-citizens applying for a US study permit must provide a Sponsor Affidavit of Support demonstrating financial capability to cover tuition and living expenses. This affidavit, often accompanied by bank statements and proof of income, verifies the sponsor's commitment to financially support the student during their academic program. |
| 7 | Accredited Institution Acceptance Letter | Non-citizens applying for a US study permit must provide an acceptance letter from a SEVP-certified accredited institution as part of their documentation. This acceptance letter confirms enrollment and is essential for obtaining the Form I-20, which is required for the student visa application process. |
| 8 | English Language Proficiency Certificate | Non-citizens applying for a US study permit must submit an English Language Proficiency Certificate such as TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE to demonstrate adequate language skills for academic success. This certificate ensures compliance with visa requirements and supports the applicant's ability to participate effectively in an English-speaking educational environment. |
| 9 | Academic Credential Evaluation Report | A Non-Citizen applying for a US study permit must submit an Academic Credential Evaluation Report to verify the authenticity and equivalency of foreign academic qualifications. This report, prepared by authorized agencies such as WES or ECE, ensures that the applicant's educational background meets US admission standards for the intended program. |
| 10 | Digital I-901 SEVIS Verification | Non-citizens applying for a US study permit must submit the digital I-901 SEVIS verification receipt as proof of payment to the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System, which validates their enrollment in a SEVP-certified institution. This document is essential to proceed with the F-1 or M-1 visa application, ensuring compliance with US immigration requirements. |
Overview of US Study Permit Requirements for Non-Citizens
Non-citizens applying for a US study permit must submit several key documents as part of the process. Essential materials include a valid passport, Form I-20 issued by a SEVP-certified school, and proof of financial support. These documents establish eligibility and enable lawful study in the United States.
Essential Document Types Needed for Application
Non-citizens applying for a US study permit must prepare specific essential documents to ensure a complete application. These documents verify identity, academic eligibility, and financial stability.
- Valid Passport - Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended period of stay in the United States.
- Form I-20 - Issued by your US educational institution, this form confirms your acceptance and enrollment in a recognized program.
- Proof of Financial Support - Documentation demonstrating your ability to cover tuition and living expenses during your study period.
Valid Passport and Identification Guidelines
Obtaining a US study permit requires specific documentation to verify identity and citizenship status. A valid passport and proper identification are critical components in this process.
- Valid Passport - Your passport must be current and unexpired to serve as the primary travel document for US entry.
- Identification Guidelines - Official government-issued IDs must match the passport information to ensure consistent identity verification.
- Supporting Documents - Additional identification such as a birth certificate or national ID card may be requested to supplement the passport.
Ensure all identification documents meet US regulations to avoid delays in your study permit application.
Financial Documentation: Proof of Funds and Sponsorship
Non-citizens applying for a US study permit must provide financial documentation to demonstrate their ability to cover tuition and living expenses. Proof of funds can include bank statements, scholarship letters, or affidavits of support showing sufficient resources. Sponsorship documents from family members or organizations must clearly outline the financial support available for the duration of the study program.
Academic Records and Transcripts Submission
Non-citizens applying for a US study permit must submit official academic records and transcripts as part of their application. These documents verify previous education and are essential for admission to the intended educational institution.
- Official Transcripts - Transcripts must be issued by the educational institution and include grades, courses completed, and dates attended.
- Certified Copies - Copies of academic records should be certified or notarized to confirm their authenticity and accuracy.
- Translation Requirements - Any academic documents not in English require certified translations to be accepted by US immigration and educational authorities.
English Language Proficiency Documentation
To obtain a US study permit, you must provide proof of English language proficiency as part of your application. Commonly accepted documents include TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE Academic test scores that meet the specific institution's requirements.
Some universities may also accept proficiency certificates from accredited English language programs or previous study in English. Ensuring your English proficiency documentation is official and up to date will strengthen your study permit application.
Form I-20 and SEVIS Registration Process
| Document | Description |
|---|---|
| Form I-20 | Issued by the U.S. educational institution after the student gains admission. This form certifies the student's eligibility for F-1 or M-1 nonimmigrant status and details the program of study, start date, and financial support. Essential for visa application and entry into the U.S. |
| SEVIS Registration | Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) is a mandatory online database tracking international students. After receiving Form I-20, non-citizens must register and pay the SEVIS I-901 fee. Proof of SEVIS payment is required during the visa interview and U.S. port of entry. |
| Visa Application Documents | Includes Form DS-160 (Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application), passport valid for travel to the U.S., visa fee payment receipt, and Form I-20. Evidence of ties to home country and financial capability may also be requested. |
Visa Application Forms and Supporting Documents
To apply for a US study permit, non-citizens must complete specific visa application forms, primarily the DS-160, which is the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application. This form collects essential personal, educational, and travel information required by the US Department of State.
Your supporting documents should include a valid passport, an I-20 form issued by your SEVP-approved school, proof of financial resources, and a receipt for the SEVIS I-901 fee. Additional materials may involve academic transcripts, standardized test scores, and evidence of ties to your home country. Proper preparation of these documents is crucial for a successful visa interview and permit approval.
Document Preparation: Translation, Notarization, and Formatting
When applying for a US study permit, your documents must be carefully prepared to meet specific requirements. Accurate translation, notarization, and proper formatting are crucial to avoid application delays.
Translations should be certified and performed by a professional translator if the original documents are not in English. Notarization confirms the authenticity of your documents, ensuring they are legally recognized by US authorities.
What Documents Does a Non-Citizen Need for a US Study Permit? Infographic
