Tips for the Visa Processing Procedure and Travel to the U.S.

International students should complete the admissions application procedure early and receive the acceptance letter from Webber International University.   Allow enough time to complete the visa application and arrive at Webber International University before the beginning of classes.

Financial Statements must include all sources of finances the student will have available to cover the cost of study in the U.S. for the first two semesters undergraduate or the first four terms graduate.

Financial Statements must have the seal of the financial institution, or be written on letterhead of the financial institution, verifying the availability of the funds for the student?s study at the time the statement is issued.

Webber International University issues I-20?s only after the student has provided complete documentation needed for acceptance and financial statements reflecting adequate funding.

The I-20 is shipped by the fastest, most secure method available for the destination (usually Fed Ex, DHL or UPS).  The student is asked to provide a physical address where the I-20 can be delivered directly.

The student must take the I-20, the acceptance letter, and documentation of finances to the United States Embassy or Consular Office in their home country to apply for the F-1 Student Visa.  Different Embassies operate on different policies.  In some countries the entire process is done by mail.  In other countries, the student must appear in person at the Embassy and undergo an interview.  Contact the Embassy directly to get the specific instructions for application for the Student Visa.

Obtaining a visa takes time.  Frequently interview appointments are scheduled weeks in advance.  Mail processing takes weeks to accomplish.  Plan well in advance to have the visa in enough time to arrive in the United States before the ?last date to arrive? (published on the I-20).  Students who arrive in the United States after the date on the I-20 may be turned away at the Port of Entry.

Upon arrival in the United States Port of Entry, the student is asked to present the I-20, the acceptance letter, the passport with the Visa stamp and the proof of financial support for studies.

International students should report to the Admissions Office upon arrival at Webber International University.  The Admissions Office will begin the process of notification of INS of your arrival on campus.

Students should make travel arrangements that fit within the academic calendar.  Students must not plan to travel before final exams are completed.  Airline reservations and purchased tickets are not valid excuses for requesting early finals and will not be accepted by the Vice President of Academic Affairs.

Students should arrive at Webber International University in sufficient time to attend Orientation sessions, including the International Student Meeting held each semester during Orientation.

For more information on obtaining a student visa, click here.