International students must submit a valid passport, an I-20 form issued by the university, and an F-1 visa to attend a US university. They also need to provide proof of financial support, transcripts, and standardized test scores such as TOEFL or SAT. Maintaining updated immigration documents and enrollment status is essential throughout their studies.
What Documents Does an International Student Need to Attend a US University?
| Number | Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | I-20 Form Issuance | International students need the I-20 Form, issued by a Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-certified US university, to apply for an F-1 or M-1 student visa and legally attend the institution. The form certifies the student's acceptance, financial support details, and program information, which are essential for SEVIS registration and visa interview purposes. |
| 2 | SEVIS Fee Receipt | International students must present the SEVIS fee receipt as proof of payment for the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System fee, which is essential for processing the Form I-20 or DS-2019 documents required to obtain a US student visa. This receipt verifies enrollment in the SEVIS program and is mandatory at the visa interview and upon entry into the United States. |
| 3 | DS-160 Confirmation | International students must submit the DS-160 Confirmation page as proof of their completed online nonimmigrant visa application when applying for a US student visa. This document is essential for scheduling a visa interview and verifying eligibility to attend a US university. |
| 4 | Visa Interview Appointment Letter | An international student must present a Visa Interview Appointment Letter as a crucial document to schedule and attend their visa interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate, which is essential for obtaining the F-1 or J-1 visa. This letter confirms the interview date and time, ensuring the student can proceed with the mandatory visa application process to study at a U.S. university. |
| 5 | Affidavit of Support | An Affidavit of Support is a crucial document for international students attending a US university, demonstrating that they have sufficient financial resources to cover tuition, living expenses, and other costs during their study period. This legally binding form is often required alongside the I-20 form for visa application and serves to reassure both the university and the US government of the student's financial stability. |
| 6 | Credential Evaluation Report | An International Student must obtain a Credential Evaluation Report to verify their foreign academic qualifications meet U.S. university admission standards; this report is often required by admissions offices, visa authorities, and scholarship committees. Credential Evaluation Agencies analyze transcripts, diplomas, and certificates to ensure equivalency with U.S. educational credentials, facilitating accurate assessment of the student's academic background. |
| 7 | Bank Solvency Certificate | International students must provide a Bank Solvency Certificate demonstrating sufficient financial resources to cover tuition, living expenses, and other costs while attending a US university. This certificate verifies that the student or their sponsor has adequate funds, ensuring compliance with university and visa financial requirements. |
| 8 | English Language Proficiency Waiver | International students seeking an English Language Proficiency Waiver must submit official documentation proving prior education in English or standardized test scores exempting them from language requirements. Providing a school's letter confirming English as the medium of instruction or achieving qualifying scores on exams like the TOEFL or IELTS can fulfill this waiver criterion. |
| 9 | Immunization Compliance Form | The Immunization Compliance Form is a mandatory document for international students attending a US university, verifying that all required vaccinations, such as MMR, Varicella, and Tdap, are up-to-date according to state and university health regulations. Failure to submit this form can result in registration holds or denial of campus access, emphasizing its critical role in ensuring public health and compliance with university policy. |
| 10 | Pre-Arrival Health Insurance Proof | International students must provide proof of pre-arrival health insurance coverage that meets their US university's specific requirements to ensure compliance with campus health policies and avoid financial liabilities. This documentation typically includes an official insurance card or certificate outlining coverage dates, policy limits, and accepted medical providers. |
Overview of International Student Admission Policies
What documents are required for an international student to attend a US university? International student admission policies typically mandate a valid passport and a student visa, such as the F-1 or J-1 visa. Universities also require transcripts, standardized test scores, proof of financial support, and English proficiency test results.
General Document Requirements for Admission
International students must submit a valid passport and an I-20 form issued by the US university for admission. Proof of financial support demonstrating sufficient funds for tuition and living expenses is required. Academic transcripts, standardized test scores, and English proficiency test results are essential for application review.
Valid Passport and Identification Guidelines
International students must present a valid passport to enroll in a US university. Proper identification is crucial for immigration and university verification purposes.
- Valid Passport - The passport must be current and unexpired throughout the duration of the academic program.
- Visa Documentation - Students need a valid F-1 or J-1 visa linked to their passport for legal entry and study.
- University ID - Issued upon enrollment, this identifies the student on campus and supports access to university resources.
Academic Transcripts and Credential Evaluation
International students must provide academic transcripts and undergo credential evaluation to attend a US university. These documents verify your prior education and ensure eligibility for admission.
- Academic Transcripts - Official records from previous educational institutions detailing courses completed and grades earned.
- Credential Evaluation - Assessment by a recognized agency that converts foreign academic qualifications into their US equivalents.
- Submission Requirements - Transcripts should be sent directly from the issuing institution or evaluated and include detailed course descriptions.
Proper documentation of academic records and credential evaluation is essential for admission and visa application processes.
English Language Proficiency Test Scores
International students must provide proof of English language proficiency to attend a US university. Commonly accepted tests include the TOEFL, IELTS, and PTE Academic.
Your English language test scores demonstrate readiness for academic coursework in the United States. Universities set minimum score requirements that vary by institution and program.
Standardized Test Score Submission (SAT, ACT, GRE, GMAT)
International students must submit standardized test scores such as the SAT, ACT, GRE, or GMAT to attend a US university, depending on their chosen program. These scores play a crucial role in the admissions process and demonstrate academic readiness. You should verify specific requirements with each university, as some programs may waive these tests or accept alternative assessments.
Financial Documentation and Proof of Funds
International students must provide specific financial documentation to attend a US university, proving their ability to cover tuition and living expenses. These documents ensure compliance with US immigration policies and support visa applications.
- Bank Statements - Official bank statements must show sufficient funds to cover at least one academic year of tuition and living costs.
- Affidavit of Support - A signed affidavit from a sponsor confirming financial support serves as additional proof of funds.
- Scholarship or Funding Letters - Documents verifying any scholarships, grants, or financial aid awarded to the student demonstrate secured funding.
Letters of Recommendation and Statement of Purpose
Letters of Recommendation are essential for an international student applying to a US university. These documents provide insight into academic abilities and character from professors or employers.
The Statement of Purpose outlines your goals and reasons for pursuing higher education in the United States. This document helps admission committees understand your motivation and fit for the program.
Additional Program-Specific Document Requirements
International students must prepare additional program-specific documents to meet US university requirements beyond general admissions materials. These documents vary depending on the field of study, such as health programs, engineering, or business.
Health-related programs often require proof of immunizations, health insurance, and completed medical forms. Engineering programs might request portfolios or detailed project reports to demonstrate practical skills. Business schools typically ask for letters of recommendation, statement of purpose, and occasionally work experience documentation.
What Documents Does an International Student Need to Attend a US University? Infographic
