Immigration Basics
As an international student, it’s important to understand the rules that the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) requires for F-1 visa holders. You are responsible for staying “in status” by remaining a full-time student and keeping all documents up to date.
Key Terms
- Form I-20: Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status. Issued by Transylvania University for F-1 visa applicants after you submit your enrollment deposit, Certification of Finances and supporting documentation.
- Designated School Official (DSO): The university official authorised to issue and verify immigration documents.
- Department of Homeland Security (DHS): The U.S. agency that oversees USCIS and Customs and Border Protection (CBP), which regulate non-U.S. citizens.
- Entry Visa: A stamp or label in your passport obtained from the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in your home country — it allows you to apply for admission to the United States.
- Duration of Status (D/S): Indicates you may stay in the U.S. as long as you maintain your student status.
- Form I-94: The electronic record issued when you enter the U.S. It lists your entry date, port of entry, visa type (F-1), and admission number.
- Current Address: You must report both your home-country and U.S. addresses to DHS through SEVIS via your DSO. Any change must be reported immediately.
- Program Information: Your I-20 lists your major, minor and program dates. Notify your DSO right away if any of this information changes.
- Emergency Contact: The person the university will contact if you are seriously ill or injured.
Visa Information
Applying for Your F-1 Visa
- Visit your country’s U.S. Embassy or Consulate website for specific instructions on applying for an F-1 student visa.
- Pay the required visa application fee.
- Gather all required documents and schedule your visa interview. Keep your payment receipt number handy.
- Carefully review the U.S. Embassy website and follow all application instructions.
- Make copies of all documents in case an embassy officer retains originals.
- Double-check that you have every required document — including financial records and your Transylvania University acceptance letter — before your interview.
- Arrive early for your appointment.
- Bring only what you need. Leave items such as phones, laptops and backpacks outside the embassy, as they are often not allowed.
Common Visa Interview Questions
Be prepared to discuss:
- Why you chose Transylvania University
- What you plan to study and why
- How you will fund your education
- Your plans after graduation
Stay calm, confident and honest — these interviews are designed to confirm your academic intentions and financial preparedness.
Maintaining Your Visa Status
After you arrive in the United States:
- Report to your DSO upon arrival.
- Attend orientation sessions for international students.
- Enrol as a full-time student each term.
- Keep your I-20, passport and I-94 current at all times.
- Notify your DSO before changing your major, address or program end date.
Need Help?
For questions:
Julie Sams
Director of Admissions
jsama@transy.edu