Your I-20 & Next Steps

Welcome to UB! We're excited to have you join our community. Once you receive your I-20, there are a few important steps you'll need to follow to prepare for your journey to the U.S.

Step 1: Check Your I-20 For Errors

Verify all information listed on your I-20 is accurate. If any discrepancies are found, notify us immediately, so the I-20 can be revised and reissued. Please review the FAQ for F-1 Students to help determine if the details on your I-20 follows federal guidance and UB policy.

Step 2: Sign Your I-20

Student Attestation

  • You must PRINT the I-20 for visa and travel purposes.
  • SIGN and date the bottom of page 1. If you are under 18 years of age, your parent/guardian will also sign.

Step 3: Begin ISS Check-in

Watch a 2-minute video to get started with your ISS Check-In requirements. Beginning your ISS Check-In early notifies International Student Services and your Academic Department of your intentions to attend UB, and allows you to register for classes before your arrival in the U.S.
 
Don't forget to activate your UB account (UBIT Name and Password) so you can access ISS Check-in.

When is Check-in Available?

  • Summer Check-in: April (estimated)
  • Fall Check-in: April (estimated)
  • Spring Check-in: November
Learn more about ISS Check-in

Step 4: Pay the SEVIS I-901 Fee

Regulation requires all prospective F-1 students to pay the I-901 Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) Fee before the Department of State issues you a visa. Additional information can be found on the Study in the States website.

To pay the I-901 SEVIS Fee visit FMJfee.com to access the SEVIS Form I-901.

Step 5: Apply for an F-1 Visa

All prospective F-1 students must obtain a student visa to request entry to the U.S. in F-1 status.

Visit the U.S. Department of State for instructions on how to apply for an F-1 visa.

*Citizens of Canada are not required to obtain an F-1 visa. Canadian citizens must clearly present the I-20 and SEVIS Fee documentation at the port of entry to ensure they are correctly admitted in F-1 status. 

Step 6: Review Pre-Arrival & Orientation Details

Step 7: Plan Your Travel

You may enter the U.S. no more than 30 days prior to the start date listed on your I-20. 

Spring 2025

You should plan to arrive by Wednesday, January 15 to allow for a successful transition period.

Late Arrival for Undergraduate Students
Late Arrival for Graduate Students