How to Get Your J-1 Student Visa

Here is how you start the visa application process:

1. Pay the U.S. SEVIS I-901 fee and print out the receipt by going to this link: https://www.fmjfee.com/. This fee is required for ALL international students who want to study in the United States.
2. Please visit https://ceac.state.gov/genniv/ and complete the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Electronic Application (DS-160). Print out the DS-160 barcode page and bring it with you to your visa appointment. This form is required.
3. Make an appointment via the website for your visa interview at the U.S. Consulate or Embassy in your home country with jurisdiction over your place of residence. 

Please note: 

• Some U.S. Consulates have mail-in processes. It is always good to confirm by checking the U.S. Consulate's website you will be using to determine if you must attend an in-person visa interview or if you must use the mail-in procedures.
• J-1 student visas can be issued up to 365 days in advance of the program start date.
• U.S. government officials require evidence to prove that you qualify for the J-1 visa.

This is what you need to have with you when you go to the visa interview/what to prepare for your mail-in procedures:

1. Original Form DS-2019, Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor (J-1) Status
2. SEVIS I-901 Fee receipt (Form I-797)
3. DS-160 barcode page (confirmation page with application ID number on it)
4. Visa Fee Receipt 
5. Valid passport (valid at least 6 months beyond intended stay)
6. Two 2X2 Photographs
7. Original letter of acceptance/invitation from Champlain College
8. Original financial documents (less than 6 months old)
9. Official test scores (TOEFL, IELTS, etc)
10. Official transcripts and diplomas
11. Proof of ties to your home country
12. Visa Reciprocity Fee (if applicable) (http://travel.state.gov/content/visas/en/fees/reciprocity-by-country.html)

Tips for a successful visa interview (if applicable):

• Be brief and answer questions directly.
• Keep a positive attitude during the interview.
• Be ready to explain why you want to come to the U.S. to study at Champlain College. For example:
  • Why do you want to study in the U.S.?
  • Why did you choose Champlain College?
  • What career will your studies prepare you for back home?
• You must convince the Consulate Officer that you do plan to go back home to stay after you complete your studies. This is the number one reason for visa denial! Present documents that show you have "ties" to your home country, which will force you to return to your home country. These "ties" are usually social, economic, and/or family.
• Practice your English. Your interview will be in English. You will be required to speak it and show your English test scores (i.e. TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo, etc scores).

Important notes after your visa interview/mail-in procedures:

• Please check the visa to make sure that all data on the visa is correct. 
• If your visa is denied, send an email to international@champlain.edu and attach a copy of any written reason for the denial you may have been given. 
• DO NOT plan to enter the United States earlier than 30 days before your program start date indicated on your Form DS-2019.
• DO NOT pack your immigration documents in your suitcase.