Student Visa Assistance to Study English in the USA

Applying for an F-1 Student Visa

Submit your Intensive English Program application to ILI (click the green “Register Today” button). You will need to pay a non-refundable $200 registration fee with your application.
NOTE: with your application, you will also need to submit a copy of your passport (picture page) and financial documents showing you have the funds available to pay tuition and living expenses in the U.S. You must show $2,815 available for a 1-month program, and an additional $2,665 for each additional month you register for. EXAMPLE: for a 3-month program, you must show $8,145; for a 6-month program, you must show $16,140. If the bank statement is not yours or a parent’s, you must also submit a sponsor letter of support.
ILI will issue your acceptance packet containing your I-20 and acceptance letter and send it to you.
You must then complete the DS-160 (online visa application) and pay the $185 fee and schedule your visa appointment at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate nearest you.
You are also required to pay a $350 I-901 SEVIS fee before your visa interview. You can pay this fee on the I-901 website.
During your visa interview, the Consul will ask you about your reasons for coming to the U.S., why you chose this school, how you will pay for it, and what your plans are after you finish your program.
If you successfully get your visa, you are allowed to enter the U.S. up to 30 days before your program start date. Homestays will be available 1-2 days before your program start date.

Each U.S. Embassy Consul is responsible for issuing visas. Make sure you visit the website of the U.S. Embassy where you are applying to get the most recent requirements necessary.
Make sure that you know why you are coming to the United States. Why did you choose the International Language Institute? What will you do after your English program at ILI?
It is helpful to have a written statement on why you are coming to the United States and what your educational goals are, and practice saying it in English.
Make sure that you bring all of your financial documents proving that you or a sponsor has enough money to support you while you are studying in the U.S. Include these documents in your folder.
Be aware of job prospects and the job market for when you return home. If possible, visit companies that might be willing to hire a person with your experience and could write a letter for you.

You can also get additional help by contacting an advisor at the EducationUSA offices in your country. To find the office nearest you visit:

ILI must have the following documents before we can issue you an I-20 and request a transfer of your SEVIS record: