What to Expect if Accepted 

I-901 FEE

Before applying for a visa to enter the United States as a student, please go to www.FMJFee.com to pay the I-901 Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) fee.

 

Obtaining VISA
After receiving the Form I-20 from South Plains College and paying the I-901 fee, the student is required to contact the U.S. Consulate office that has jurisdiction over the students’ place of residence to schedule an appointment to apply for the student visa. Student must take the following documents with them to their appointment:

  • SPC Acceptance Letter
  • Form I-20 issued by SPC
  • I-901 Receipt
  • Proof of financial support
  • Other items may also be required (student should contact embassy they intend to apply at for further instructions)

Arriving at a U.S. Port of Entry: What to Expect

Student may be refused entry into the U.S if the student attempts to arrive more than 30 days before the program start date listed on the Form I-20. The student should always hand-carry the following documents:

  • Passport valid for at least six months
  • Valid F-1 VISA
  • Valid Form I-20
  • I-901 Receipt
  • Evidence of financial support

 

F-1 students entering the U.S. will have their photograph and ten digital fingerprints taken, as part of the DHS’ Office of Biometric Identity Management (OBIM). All nonimmigrant visitors holding visas – regardless of race, national origin or religion – participate in the OBIM, a registration system tracking entries to and exits from the United States. For more information, please visit: https://www.dhs.gov/obim

 

Once the student’s inspection is completed, the inspector will stamp the passport with an admission stamp and an electronic I-94 Form will be created. The Form I-94 serves as evidence of a lawful admission and “alien registration” that is required by law. If student enters by air or sea, student will be given a “tearsheet” that lists the www.cbp.gov/i94 website, where they can access their I-94 record and print a copy. Those traveling by land will have a paper Form I-94A created.

 

The student is required to report to South Plains College by the registration deadline, and not more than 30 days after entering the U.S., to register for classes.

 

Vaccination Record

Pursuant to SB 1107 enacted by the State of Texas, all entering students, under the age of 22, and enrolling at South Plains College, must provide proof that the meningitis vaccination was administered at least 10 days prior to the first day of the term. Vaccinations must have been received or renewed within the last 5 years. 

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