Steps to Becoming an F-1 Student
Apply for I-20
Once you have been granted admission to Bronx Community College, you will need to apply for an I-20 form. This is the form you will need to apply for an F-1 visa in the United States. For the I-20 application form and instructions, please contact us at internationalstudent@bcc.cuny.edu . After reviewing and processing your application OISS will contact you.
Apply for F-1 Visa
Once you receive your I-20, you have to pay the I-901 SEVIS fee and apply for an F-1 visa. Then schedule a visa interview with the US Embassy or Consulate in your country.
Enter the USA and Report to School
You can only enter the country within 30 days of your official program start date, which is registered in SEVIS by an official at our school. Immediately contact our office after you have entered the United States, otherwise you are not maintaining your status. You must make an appointment to meet with an International Student Advisor to receive instructions for the next steps of your academic experience.
Changing Status to F-1:
If you are currently in the U.S. and want to change to F-1 student status without leaving the U.S., you may be eligible to apply to USCIS for a change of status. The Office of International Student Services will provide assistance with the process of applying to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for a change of your nonimmigrant status to F-1 student.