Applying For Your Student Visa

Review Your Immigration Documents

  • Confirm the accuracy of information on your Form I-20 or Form DS-2019.  
  • Contact ISSS if any corrections are needed.
  • Verify that your passport meets and renew, if necessary, before applying for your visa.

Pay the I-901 SEVIS Fee

  • Visit 
  • Watch the .
  • Pay the I-901 SEVIS fee using the appropriate University of Colorado Boulder codes:
    • F-1 students: DEN 214F00155000
    • J-1 exchange visitors:  P-1-00066
  • Your SEVIS number starts with the letter N and is at the top of your I-20/DS-2019.
  • Bring to your visa interview.

Make Your Visa Appointment

  • Review student  on the U.S. Department of State website.
  • Check .
    • Depending on your country of residence and field of study or research,  can be lengthy, so apply early.
  • Apply for your visa nearest to your place of permanent residence. 
  • Complete the  (Form DS-160).
  • Upload a  and pay any required fees.
  • Carefully read visa application details on your specific U.S. Embassy or Consulate's website.

Prepare for and Attend Your Visa Interview

  • Be ready to discuss and document:
    • Academic preparation and purpose for traveling to the U.S.
    • Intent to depart the U.S. after completing your program.
    • Ability to cover all expenses related to your program.
  • Bring , including proof of fee payments and the I-901 SEVIS fee.
  • Review

Visa Issuance Delays

  • Understand that security background screening may cause delays. These delays are referred to as “administrative processing.” See our ISSS Administrative Processing webpage as well as the to learn more about administrative processing.
  • The U.S. Department of State generally does not disclose reasons for delays.
  • Inquiries about visas subject to "administrative processing" are typically not accepted until 180 days after the visa interview date.
  • Check your visa application status online through the under "Check my Visa Application Status."