Once you receive acceptance to a Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-certified school, do you know what to do next?

Check out the Study Guide to the States for an overview of the F or M student process. Here are some important next steps:

• Along with your letter of acceptance, the designated school official (DSO) at your school will send you a Form I-20, “Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Status.” This is one of your most important documents. Be sure to read the information about it on our Student Forms page.
• Pay your I-901 Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) fee. You need information from your Form I-20 to pay this fee.
• Apply for a visa to enter the United States with the Department of State at the U.S. embassy or consulate near you. Before you go there, consult their website to see what documents you need to bring with you. Remember to bring your Form I-20, financial information and a receipt of your I-901 SEVIS fee payment.
• Start preparing to arrive at a U.S. port of entry early; collect your passport, Form I-20, all other necessary paperwork, and contact information for your DSO. If you have any problems during your travel, your DSO can be a big help. Make sure you hand-carry these important documents. Do not pack them in checked luggage because you will need them for admission processing.

You can find more information on our Students page. If you have questions, talk to the DSO at the school you want to attend or contact the SEVP Response Center at 703-603-3400 or sevp@ice.dhs.gov.