Savanna Hoffman
International students have a lot to consider when deciding to study in a foreign country. The process can be challenging, with financial pressures being a top concern. However, there is help available, and international students can access various financial options, scholarships, and bursaries. Additionally, they may be eligible for certain benefits, such as applying for a driver's license and taking advantage of practical training opportunities. When planning their arrival, international students should be mindful of the visa requirements and entry regulations of their destination country. For instance, in the United States, new students with F/J visas can enter up to 30 days before the program start date, and they must attend the New Student Orientation. On the other hand, in the UK, international students can attend university open days, explore campuses, and seek advice from current students and experts to help them navigate the application process and their journey as an international student.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Visa category | F and M visas |
| Visa application time | Up to 365 days before the course start date |
| Entry into the country | No earlier than 30 days before the course start date |
| Admission | Granted by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officials at the port of entry |
| Admission requirements | Passport, visa, and Form I-20 |
| Admission record | Admission stamp or paper Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record |
| Form I-20 | Issued by the SEVP-approved school; serves as a "Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Status" |
| SEVP | Student and Exchange Visitor Program |
| SEVIS | Student and Exchange Visitor Information System |
| SEVIS fee | Required for new students |
| Change of status | Students must apply for a change of status to student (F or M) prior to the start of their program |
| Departure | F students must depart within 60 days of the program end date; M students must depart within 30 days |
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What You'll Learn
- International students in the US must apply for a visa early
- Students can enter the US up to 30 days before the program start date
- International students in the UK can use Clearing like UK students
- International students in the US must report to school by the program start date
- International students in the US may be eligible for benefits like a driver's license
International students in the US must apply for a visa early
International students planning to study in the US must remember that they need to get a student visa. The most common student visas are F-1 and M-1. F-1 visas are for full-time international students pursuing academic studies, while M-1 visas are for full-time international students pursuing vocational studies.
Students cannot travel on the Visa Waiver Program or with Visitor Visas. They must have an F or M visa to travel to the United States to study. Obtaining a student visa can be a lengthy process, and students are advised to apply early. Wait times for interview appointments vary by location, season, and visa category. Students must also consider that they are not permitted to enter the US earlier than 30 days before the start date of their program.
To apply for a student visa, students must complete the online Form DS-160 and upload a photo that meets the Photograph Requirements. Visa applicants generally require an interview, and consular officers may require an interview of any visa applicant. Students should schedule an appointment for their visa interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in the country where they live. Students may schedule their interview at another U.S. Embassy or Consulate, but it may be more difficult to demonstrate that they qualify for a visa outside of their home country.
After the visa interview, the consular officer will inform the applicant if their application requires further administrative processing. Once the visa is approved, the applicant may need to pay a visa issuance fee (if applicable to their nationality) and make arrangements for the return of the passport and visa. It is important to remember that a visa does not guarantee entry into the United States. It only allows a foreign citizen to travel to the country.
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Students can enter the US up to 30 days before the program start date
International students on F and M visas can enter the US up to 30 days before the start date of their program of study. This is because a student visa does not permit entry to the US more than 30 days before the program start date. Students on F and M visas must also enter the US no later than the program start date listed on their Form I-20.
To obtain a student visa, a consular officer will interview you to determine whether you meet the requirements to receive a visa. Ink-free, digital fingerprint scans are taken as part of the application process. After the visa is approved, you may need to pay a visa issuance fee, and make arrangements for the return of your passport and visa. It is important to note that a visa does not guarantee entry into the US, and this is at the discretion of the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officials.
Upon entry to the US, international students must complete Immigration Status Verification (ISV) so that their SEVIS record can be activated. Students who may be more than one week late will need to work with their academic department and Admissions to defer their attendance to the next semester. All non-immigrants are assigned an I-94 number upon entry to the US, which can be accessed from the CBP website. This will be required for federal and state government-related applications, such as a driver's license.
It is important to note that students cannot travel on the Visa Waiver Program or with Visitor Visas. They must have a student visa (F or M visa) to travel to the US to study. Exchange students on J-1 visas are exempt from this rule.
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International students in the UK can use Clearing like UK students
International students in the UK can use Clearing to apply for undergraduate courses at UK universities in the same way that British students can. Clearing is a chance for students to secure a place on an undergraduate course at a UK university if they did not succeed with their original application, are unhappy with the offers they received, or are applying late in the year. It is a way of filling course places that haven't already been taken, and thousands of students secure university places through Clearing every year.
To use Clearing, international students will need to register with UCAS and submit their applications through the UCAS Clearing system. They will also need to pay the £28.50 application fee, the same as other students. International students will need the same documents they would need if they were applying to a course or university without going through Clearing, including evidence of academic qualifications, English proficiency, and visa status.
It is important to note that not all UK universities participate in Clearing, and not every course or subject will have places available. Additionally, international students using Clearing may have to apply for a student visa, which can take time. Therefore, it is recommended to start the Clearing process as early as possible.
Overall, Clearing provides international students with an opportunity to apply to UK universities and secure a place on an undergraduate course, just like UK students. By understanding the process and acting quickly, international students can take advantage of Clearing to pursue their educational goals in the UK.
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International students in the US must report to school by the program start date
International students in the US must adhere to specific guidelines regarding their arrival and reporting dates to ensure compliance with their student visa requirements. Here is some information regarding the reporting dates for international students in the US:
Visa Requirements:
To study in the US, international students must obtain a student visa, typically an F or M visa. These visas can be issued up to 365 days before the start of a course, but entry into the US on a student visa is only permitted up to 30 days before the program's start date. This timeframe should be carefully considered when making travel plans to the US. Obtaining a visa does not guarantee entry, as students must also meet other requirements under US law, including providing necessary documentation and completing the Immigration Status Verification (ISV) process upon arrival.
Reporting Dates:
International students in the US must report to their designated school official (DSO) upon entering the country. They must also contact their DSO again by the program start date listed on their Form I-20, the "Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status." This form should be signed by the DSO within the last year, and students should ensure they have the DSO's up-to-date contact information before travelling. Additionally, students are required to attend the New Student Orientation; however, those who are unable to attend due to visa delays should promptly notify the Office of Orientation Programs and their academic department.
Late Arrival:
Students who arrive more than one week after the program starts may need to defer their attendance to the next semester. Late entry is not guaranteed and is subject to the discretion of the Port of Entry Officer and the academic department. Students experiencing delays should maintain open communication with the relevant university departments and seek guidance from their DSO, who can provide support and answer questions regarding legal requirements.
Pre-Arrival Planning:
International students typically arrive 1-2 weeks before the first day of classes to familiarise themselves with the campus and surrounding area. This time can also be used to open a bank account, purchase necessary items, and complete any other administrative tasks to ensure a smooth transition into university life in the US.
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International students in the US may be eligible for benefits like a driver's license
Starting Date for International Students in the US:
International students on an F or M visa can enter the US up to 30 days before the official start date of their program, as outlined on their I-20/DS-2019 form. This grace period allows students to settle in, complete necessary orientations, and prepare for the start of classes. Arriving earlier than 30 days before the program start date is not permitted on a student visa.
Benefits for International Students in the US:
Now, let's explore the benefits that international students in the US may be eligible for, including the process of obtaining a driver's license:
- Driver's License: Obtaining a driver's license is a significant benefit for international students in the US. Upon entering the country, international students receive an I-94 Arrival/Departure Record, which is crucial for applying for a driver's license. This record serves as proof of legal status and is required by state and federal governments for issuing a driver's license. The process may vary by state, so students should check the specific requirements of their state of residence.
- Access to Education: The US offers a wide range of academic options with numerous accredited institutions. International students can choose from a variety of degrees and study programs, increasing their chances of finding a quality education in their desired field.
- Personal Development: Studying in the US provides international students with opportunities for immense personal development. They can expand their global network, gain new cultural experiences, and enhance their global perspective. This transformation can also lead to a challenging but rewarding reintegration process when they return to their home countries.
- Practical Training Opportunities: International students in the US may be eligible for Optional Practical Training (OPT), which provides temporary employment directly related to their area of study. This allows them to gain practical work experience and apply their academic knowledge in a real-world setting.
- Support Services: Many US universities offer support services specifically for international students. These services can include assistance with visa and immigration-related matters, academic advising, and cultural adjustment resources to help navigate the challenges of studying in a new country.
While there are benefits to studying in the US, it is important to also consider potential challenges, such as the high cost of education and living, rigorous academic workload, and cultural adjustments, which may include homesickness and loneliness. Overall, international students in the US should carefully weigh the advantages and disadvantages to make an informed decision about their education.
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Frequently asked questions
The starting day for an international student can vary depending on the country and institution. It is best to check with the specific school or university.
This will depend on your visa requirements and the start date of your course. It is important to plan your arrival accordingly to ensure you don't arrive too early or too late.
International Students' Day is observed globally on the 17th of November each year. It is a day to honour the student community and the ongoing struggles and achievements of students worldwide.
It is a good idea to familiarise yourself with the campus and the local area before your first day. Many institutions offer open days or virtual tours to help with this. You should also ensure you have all the necessary documentation and that you understand any cultural differences.
