Obtaining an F-1 visa

Complete all steps for international admissions at LC State.  You will receive an acceptance letter and I-20 document from the International Programs team.

Pay the SEVIS I-901 fee, print a copy of your receipt and add to your visa application records.

Complete the DS-160 Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application.  Print and keep the DS-160 barcode page as part of your visa application records.

You may be asked to upload the following supportive documents with the DS-160 application:

  1. Your photo or digital image.  Photos and/or digital images must meet the US Department of State photo requirements. 
  2. DS-160 Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application fee payment.  Submit payment, print copy of receipt, and keep as part of your visa application records.  Fee amounts vary by location.

Review our full list of Required Application Materials for a US F-1 student visa.

Most applicants will need to schedule a visa interview.  Select your local/regional US Embassy or Consulate.  Follow their individual processes for scheduling a visa interview.  Apply as early as possible.

*Students from Canada and Bermuda do not need to schedule an interview.  They must present a valid I-20 and receipt of I-901 fee payment at border entry.

During your F-1 visa interview you may be asked questions about your studies, your choice of school, financial information, post-graduation plans, and more.  Explore resources to help your prepare for your visa interview.

Visa applicants may check on the status of their visa application using the US Department of State's online Consular Electronic Application Center.   Please notify the International Programs Office of any updates in your application status by emailing us at [email protected].

*While a student can apply for an F-1 visa earlier, an F-1 visa can be issued no more than 120 days before the reporting date listed on the Form I-20.

Entering the United States

Students may enter the US no earlier than the 30 days before the program start date listed on your I-20. Report flight arrangements and arrival times by emailing [email protected].

*LC State provides free airport pickup from the Lewiston, ID and Pullman, WA airports ONLY.

Prepare your luggage and documents for airline travel.

  1. Traveling as an International Student
  2. Packing list