How to Apply for a Student Visa

Applicants who indicate a need for a student visa must submit a bank statement in their name or the name of the person who will be paying their costs. The bank statement must show a minimum of $5,045, the estimated total cost of one 2-month ELI session, and should show enough money to cover the entire time the student expects to study at ELI.

Accepted students will receive a Form I-20 printed from the SEVIS website. You should make an appointment at a U.S. embassy or consulate to apply for a student visa. The length of time it takes to make an appointment and receive a visa after application varies from country to country. In general it is advisable to send your application to ELI three months before the date you want to start your classes.

When you go to the appointment to apply for a student visa, bring your passport, I-20, and proof of financial support (bank statement, letter from sponsor or employer). The officer will also want to see proof that you do not intend to stay in the U.S. permanently but will return to your country when your studies are over.

More detailed instructions will be sent to you with your I-20.

Students who apply at the same time to a University of Bridgeport degree program will probably receive an I-20 from the university, not from ELI. ELI and UB admissions are separate processes and have separate offices. Be sure the UB Admissions Office is aware of your planned start date at ELI, so that date can be put on your I-20.

You can enter the U.S. up to 30 days before the start date on your I-20, but you can't enter after that date.