Applying for a Visa

If you need an F-1 visa to enter the United States, you will need to complete several steps before traveling to Union. Visa processing times and requirements can change, so we urge our incoming students to start the process as early as possible. You cannot apply for a visa without first receiving your Form I-20 from International Advising.

Visa Application Checklist:

• Receive your Initial Form I-20 from the International Advising Office

• Pay the I-901 SEVIS fee

• Complete the DS-160

• Pay the visa application fee

• Schedule your visa interview

• Prepare for and attend your interview

• Update International Advising after your visa appointment

The DS-160 is the online application for a U.S. nonimmigrant visa. You must complete and submit it before your visa interview.

Before starting the DS-160, have your passport, Form I-20, SEVIS ID, and information about your education, travel history, and family available.

Important Tips

• Answer every question honestly and accurately.
• Review your answers carefully before submitting. Many answers cannot be changed after submission.
• Make sure your information matches your passport and Form I-20.
• Save your application frequently as you work.
• Print or save a copy of your completed application for your records.
• Bring your DS-160 confirmation page to your visa interview.

After completing your DS-160, you must follow the instructions for scheduling a visa appointment at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you will apply.

Your DS-160 application needs to match what is searchable online, so list all accounts, even if you don’t use them.

Account Privacy Settings

Consulates require that all applicants for H-1B and their dependents (H-4), F, M, and J non-immigrant visas adjust the privacy settings on all of their social media profiles to “public.”

Review Your Online Presence

• We encourage applicants to review all accounts and check for accuracy.
• Ensure your education, employment, and biographical details match your visa application.
• Update outdated or incorrect information.

We also encourage applications to review their posts and interactions. Look at groups or public forums you follow to ensure they reflect how you wish to present yourself. Search for your name online and ensure what comes up aligns with how you want to present yourself. Multiple news outlets are reporting that Consular Officers may examine online content for:

• Language suggesting “hostile attitudes” toward the United States
• Possible links to, or endorsement of, groups the U.S. considers terrorist organizations
• Activity that suggests participation in or planning of unlawful behavior
• Posts that appear threatening, harassing, or hostile toward people or institutions in the U.S.
• Discriminatory or hate-motivated content, including antisemitism
• Evidence of previous visa or immigration noncompliance
• Information that conflicts with what is provided on the DS-160 or during the visa interview

Avoid the Appearance of Misrepresentation

• Do not abruptly delete large amounts of content immediately prior to your interview.
• Do not create new accounts that do not accurately represent you.
• Ensure your usernames, photos, and identifying information allow officers to match the account to you.

Our software partner, Homebase, has created this Visa Interview Prep Hub. You can access these resources at any time during your preparation. While most features are available for free, some optional features require payment. Any purchases are entirely optional and would be at your own expense and discretion.

This page is meant to give incoming and prospective students a brief overview of the process to attend Union as an international student. Visa application procedures, appointment availability, fees, and required documents vary by location. We suggest completing all the required tasks as soon as possible as visa appointment times can greatly vary. Always follow the instructions provided by the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you will apply.