International Students

Prospective international students are currently eligible to apply for admission into USU’s iMBA and iDAB programs. These programs are certified by SEVP to enroll F-1 international students and adhere to all relevant federal regulations.

To apply for admission as an international student, click here. International students are evaluated with the same criteria as domestic students; however, additional documents may be needed in order to verify a foreign earned degree and English language proficiency.

Once admitted into an approved program, international students will receive communication regarding how to request their Form I-20, Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status.

The Form I-20 is the official document confirming your eligibility for F-1 student status. You must maintain a valid and accurate I-20 throughout your program.

You will need your I-20 to:

• Apply for an F-1 visa
• Enter or re-enter the United States
• Demonstrate F-1 status
• Apply for benefits such as CPT or OPT
• Obtain a DSO travel signature

Promptly notify your DSO (within 10 days) of any changes to your academic program, personal information, or financial circumstances. Keep copies of all I-20s issued to you, as they may be needed for future immigration or employment purposes.

Estimated Cost of attendance

To qualify for a Form I-20, you must provide satisfactory documentation demonstrating that you have sufficient financial resources to meet the estimated cost of attendance at United States University.

You must demonstrate guaranteed financial support for one academic year (two semesters). Financial requirements for subsequent years are estimated. These estimates are intended to demonstrate your ability to meet expected educational and living expenses; actual costs may vary based on your individual circumstances.

If you will be accompanied by dependents, you must provide an additional $6,000 for your spouse and $6,000 for each child.

Your Form I-20 cannot be issued until you have submitted all required financial documentation and satisfied the University’s financial requirements.

Please refer to the charts below for your estimated costs.

Financial Documents

Please keep the following in mind when submitting financial documents with this form:

• All supporting financial documents/bank statements must be dated within three (3) months of the start of your academic program and must contain the logo and/or seal of the bank, your (or your sponsor’s) full name, and the amount of funds readily available.
• All bank statements and documents must be in English or be officially translated into English.
• Electronic versions of bank statements are acceptable if they contain the issue date, the logo and/or seal of the issuing bank, your (or your sponsor’s) full name, and the amount of funds available.
• Original documents are preferred, but high-quality color scans sent via email may be accepted at the discretion of the Principal Designated School Official or Designated School Official reviewing your documents.
• In place of bank statements, you may submit a letter from your bank (on official bank letterhead) containing the issue date, your (or your sponsor’s) full name, the length of the relationship with the financial institution, and the amount of funds available. Such letters must bear the bank's official signature and seal.
• All bank letters must contain direct contact information of the authorized signatory such as email address and phone number.
• Scholarship letters/financial guarantees must contain an issue date, your full name, and the date the scholarship goes into effect.

Screenshots of documents, real estate titles, investments/stocks, lines of credit, salary statements, and loans are not acceptable for the purposes of yur I-20.

Per federal regulatory requirements, SEVP-certified institutions must demonstrate that F-1 students can meet the financial obligations associated with attending a university/college. US Immigration law prohibits waiver of the financial guarantee, and without certified information, a Form I-20 cannot be issued. Therefore, you are required to certify that you will have adequate financial support for your program of study at United States University.

Once you have been admitted into an approved program of study, you will begin to receive communications with instructions for requesting your I-20 document.

Initial Status Students

If you are outside of the US, then you will be considered an Initial Student. To request your I-20, you will complete the I-20 request e-form and provide the following documents and information:

• Valid passport
• Financial evidence
• Signed Financial Sponsor Attestation (if relevant)
• Biographical details
• Foreign residential address
• Requested session start date

SEVIS Transfer Students

If you are currently in the US and hold a valid I-20 from another institution, you are considered a SEVIS Transfer Student. Please review our SEVIS Transfer Policy here to ensure your eligibility.

To receive your USU I-20, you will coordinate with the DSO at your current institution as well as the DSO at USU. The DSO at your current institution will assist and provide advising on their specific transfer-out processes as well as help determine an appropriate date for your SEVIS record to be released to USU.
In order to request your USU I-20, you will complete the I-20 request e-form and provide the following documents and information:

• Valid passport
• Financial evidence
• Signed Financial Sponsor Attestation (if relevant)
• Biographical details
• Foreign residential address
• Requested session start date
• Current I-20
• Current EAD (if relevant)
• Current I-94
• Current F-1 Visa stamp (even if expired)
• SEVIS Transfer Form
• US address
• US phone number

Change of Status

If you are currently in the US in any other immigration status and would like to obtain F-1 student status while remaining in the country, you are a Change of Status (COS) Student.
USU will issue you a Change of Status I-20 which you will use to apply for your COS with USCIS. Change of status within the US can be a complicated process, and we advise that you consult with an Immigration attorney for legal advice and assistance during the process.
In order to request your COS I-20, you will complete the I-20 request e-form and provide the following documents and information:

• Valid passport
• Financial evidence
• Signed Financial Sponsor Attestation (if relevant)
• Biographical details
• Foreign residential address
• Requested session start date
• Current Immigration document such as Ds-2019, etc
• Current visa stamp
• US address
• US phone number

Once the Form I‑20 has been issued, students must complete several important steps before they can enter the United States in F-1 student status. The following requirements apply to all students who will study in F‑1 status who are outside the United States and have been issued an “Initial” I-20. These steps should be completed promptly to avoid delays in visa processing and program arrival.

I-901 SEVIS Fee

All new F‑1 students are required to pay the I‑901 SEVIS Fee which is paid to the US government to support the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP). This fee is separate from the visa application fee and must be paid before a student can schedule a visa interview or enter the United States.

The I‑901 fee (https://studyinthestates.dhs.gov/2012/06/paying-your-i-901-sevis-fee) can be paid online at the official payment portal. Upon payment, students must print and retain theI‑901 SEVIS Fee Receipt, as they may be asked to present it during the visa interview and at the port of entry. You will be unable to schedule a visa interview without first paying the I-901 SEVIS fee.

DS-160 Visa Application

Students who are currently outside the United States and who are not exempt from visa requirements must complete the DS‑160 Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application in order to apply for an F‑1 visa. Please note that citizens of Canada and Bermuda are exempt from obtaining a physical F-1 visa stamp and are not required to complete the DS-160 application.

After submitting the DS‑160, you will receive a DS‑160 Confirmation Page with a barcode. This confirmation must be printed and brought to your visa interview.

Students who require an F‑1 visa must schedule an appointment at a US Embassy or Consulate in their country of citizenship or permanent residency. Appointment availability varies by location and time of year. The US Department of State maintains a website with global visa wait times which students may reference for an estimate of when an appointment may be available. Students are encouraged to schedule their interview as early as possible, using the confirmation number from their DS‑160 and their SEVIS ID.

Visa interview

The F‑1 visa interview is a required step for most students applying to study in the United States. The interview is conducted by a consular officer at a US. Embassy or Consulate and is intended to verify the student’s academic plans, financial readiness, and intent to comply with US immigration regulations. Careful preparation is essential for a successful interview and timely visa issuance.

Gather All Required Documents

Students must bring the following documents to the interview. All documents should be neatly organized and accessible:

• Valid passport, valid for at least six months beyond the intended date of entry
• Form I‑20, signed by both the student and the DSO
• DS‑160 Confirmation Page with barcode
• I‑901 SEVIS Fee Receipt
• Visa application fee receipt, if required by the embassy
• Official admission letter from the US institution
• Financial documentation, such as:
• Bank statements
• Sponsorship letters
• Assistantship or scholarship awards
• Government funding letters

Students should review the website of the specific US Embassy or Consulate where they will apply, as additional documents may be required. Additional documents not on the list above may not be reviewed by the consular officer.

Professional and Clear Communication

The visa interview is typically brief, less than five minutes; therefore, clear communication is essential. Respond to questions directly and concisely, providing honest and accurate information at all times. Visa interviews are conducted in English, and a calm, respectful manner will help create a positive interaction. Preparing a succinct explanation of your academic objectives and financial support in advance may help you feel more confident during the interview.

Professional Appearance and Post‑Interview Guidance

Although no formal dress code exists, we encourage you to present yourself in a professional and respectful manner, as appearance and demeanor contribute to the overall impression you make during the interview. After the interview concludes, the consular officer will inform you of your next steps. If the visa is approved, you will receive instructions regarding the return of your passport and visa. Travel arrangements should not be finalized until the visa has been issued and the passport has been returned.

Preparing For Arrival

You may enter the US within 30 calendar days of the start date listed on your Form I-20. If you are not able to arrive by the first day of classes due to travel or visa delays, you must contact your enrollment advisor and the DSO department at dsoga@usuniversity.edu.

Prepare Documents for Travel

You must carry all of your original and copy of documents on you at all times. Do NOT put any of them on your checked baggage because you will need to access them when you arrive at the port of entry and speak with a Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer.

List of documents you should carry on you:

• Current Passport. Note: Make sure it is not expiring within a minimum of six months and always keep it current.
• USU Admission Letter
• F-1 Visa
• Form I-20
• Original documents showing financial ability
• SEVIS I-901 Fee Payment Receipt
• Copy of health and immunization records
• Copy of transcript(s), degree(s), diploma(s)
• Dependent's Form I-20s and Passports, if your spouse and children will be traveling with you

Make at least one set of photocopies of all documents you've received up to this point and leave with your family in your home country or someone you can trust in the event of an emergency.

Arrival: Port of Entry and Inspection

Once you arrive in the United States at your point of entry, a US CBP officer will check your documents and determine if you can enter the country. This is where you will need to show your passport, visa, financial documents, admission letter, I-901 receipt of SEVIS fee and Form I-20.

Students who travel without all of the required documents may be denied entry into the US. It will be up to the discretion of the CBP officer at the port of entry.

Your passport should be stamped by the port of entry official notating F-1 status, date, and location of arrival in the US If this is incomplete or the stamped date or visa classification is incorrect, please bring it to the attention of the CBP officer before you leave so they can make the correct annotation.

While a CBP officer inspects your immigration documents, you may be asked some general questions. Do not allow yourself to become agitated or nervous; it is just a routine procedure. Always answer clearly, honestly, and politely.

If the CBP officer admits you into the country, you may be given a Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record. This form shows that you have been legally admitted into the United States, the class of admission, and your authorized period of stay. If you traveled by air or sea the I-94 may be retrieved through the online I-94 website. Therefore, those traveling by land keep the I-94 card in a safe location should you not be able to retrieve it online.

After a CBP officer checks your documents and clears you to enter the US., you may proceed to the baggage claim area (if not done prior, each airport is different) to collect your luggage. After you collect your luggage, you will go through the customs checkpoint. The US Customs (or Agriculture Department) officials may ask about the contents of your bags or ask to open them. Follow their instructions and answer their questions honestly and politely.

Here you will turn in the form you may have been given on the airplane, if applicable. On this form, you must declare if you have funds exceeding $10,000 (in any currency) and any items that need to be declared. Please visit cbp.gov for detailed information on what you are allowed to bring and what items you need to declare.

Customs and Border Protection Officers may ask the following questions:

• The purpose of your visit to the United States
• How long you plan to visit
• Where you will be staying/residing
• If you have the means to support yourself financially in the United States
• If the documents you are presenting are compatible with the purpose and intent of your visit

If the CBP Officer cannot verify your information (i.e., you do not have all of the required documentation) you may be directed to an interview area known as "secondary inspection." It is important not to panic or stress, this is simply to allow inspectors to conduct additional research without delaying other arriving passengers. In the event that the CBP officer needs to verify information with United States University you should do one of the following:

1. If you are arriving during university hours, provide them the contact information of United States University to get in touch with the DSO.

2. If you are arriving during non-school operating hours (evenings, weekends, holidays) please be advised that it will be difficult to get in touch with the DSO. Please send an email to the DSO; while we try to monitor the email on weekends and evenings they may not be able to respond immediately, especially during a holiday week/end.

Airport Transportation

Once you have cleared the customs checkpoint, you will exit into the international arrivals area of the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL). If you need to catch a connecting flight to get to ATL, you will need to take your bags with you to the proper terminal or check-in counter for your domestic flight. At many airports, you will need to take a free inter-terminal shuttle or tram/train to get to the proper terminal. We highly recommend visiting the website of your destination airport to become familiar with what you will need to do.

To leave the airport, you can use taxis or ride/sharing services such as Uber or Lyft to get around. You can also pre-plan transportation such as shuttles online.

After you arrive in the United States, you must complete your required Initial Check-In with your Designated School Official (DSO) as soon as possible.
The purpose of the Initial Check-In is to verify your arrival in the United States, confirm your US contact information, and review your immigration documents. Once your DSO verifies your information, your SEVIS record will be updated to Active status, confirming your arrival and eligibility to study in F-1 status.

During check-in, you must provide:

• Your current US residential address.
• Your US phone number (if available).
• Your electronic Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record.
• Your valid passport.
• Your F-1 visa (if applicable).
• Your original, hand-signed Form I-20.

Before submitting your documents, review your Form I-20 to ensure that all information is accurate and that your name matches your passport. If you notice any errors, contact your DSO immediately.
Your DSO will review your documents to verify that you entered the United States in F-1 status and that your SEVIS record contains the correct personal and program information. Providing incomplete or inaccurate information may delay the activation of your SEVIS record.

Important: Your SEVIS record must be in Active status before you can begin authorized employment, apply for a Social Security Number (SSN), or apply for a driver's license or state identification card. Government agencies and employers verify your SEVIS status electronically, so applications submitted before your record is activated may be delayed or denied. After completing your Initial Check-In, allow sufficient time for your SEVIS record to be updated before applying for these benefits.

International students must attend an on-campus orientation in addition to their online New Student Orientation. Both orientations are required in order to complete your International Student Check-in.

In general, International Student Orientation will be held on the Friday preceding your first weekend seminar class.

Specific dates, times, and other details will be shared via email upon I-20 issuance.

Maintaining Enrollment

As an F-1 student, you are required to maintain a full course of study each academic term unless you have received prior authorization from your Designated School Official (DSO) for a Reduced Course Load (RCL). Do not withdraw from or stop attending any course before your DSO has authorized a reduced course load and updated your I-20. Doing so may jeopardize your F-1 status.
United States University defines full-time enrollment for graduate students as at least six (6) credit hours per semester. To meet both University and F-1 enrollment requirements, you must enroll in two (2) on-ground courses; and one (1) online course each semester, unless otherwise authorized by your DSO.

If you are in your final semester and need fewer than six credit hours to complete your degree, you may be eligible for a Reduced Course Load. However, if only one course remains to complete your program, that course must be an on-ground course and may not be taken online.

You are also expected to comply with all University attendance policies for both on-ground and online courses. Failure to maintain enrollment or attend classes may result in administrative withdrawal, which could affect your F-1 status, including possible termination of your SEVIS record.

Attendance

Attendance and participation in all classes, whether online or in person is mandatory. Failure to attend one day may result in immediate withdrawal from the University and the SEVIS record will be terminated. No exceptions can be made to this policy. If a student misses class due to mitigating circumstances, they must notify the faculty and DSO. The DSO may request evidence of mitigating circumstances to determine options. Example: i.e., medical illness, natural disaster/severe weather conditions preventing travel leading to a national emergency. The University is Located in Sandy Springs, Georgia, and students are expected to be in class during all scheduled sessions.

The university understands that at times you may be late to class or need to leave early. Being late to any class or leaving early is a disruption to fellow classmates and is strongly discouraged. The university will consider you to be tardy when you arrive more than 10 minutes late after class starts. An early departure is any time a student leaves before the end of class. The university will consider it an absence if you exceed more than two (2) tardies or early departures during a single course; and at which point you will be withdrawn from the course and/or the university. Your SEVIS record may also be impacted and terminated due to "Unauthorized Drop Below Full Course of Study."

Academic

Failure to maintain satisfactory academic progress, meet academic requirements, or remain appropriately enrolled may result in academic consequences, including course withdrawal or dismissal. For F-1 students, failure to maintain the academic and enrollment requirements of your program may also result in termination of your SEVIS record and loss of F-1 status.

If you are experiencing academic difficulties or believe you may be unable to meet an academic requirement, contact your Academic Advisor and your Designated School Official (DSO) as soon as possible. Do not wait until you are no longer able to meet the requirements to seek assistance.

Payment

International students are required to pay all tuition and required fees for each semester no later than 10 days before the first day of classes, unless an approved exception or payment plan has been granted by the University. Students are responsible for ensuring that their tuition and fees are paid by the established deadline.

Failure to pay tuition and required fees may result in withdrawal from one or more courses. Because F-1 students are required to maintain full-time enrollment, withdrawal from courses due to nonpayment may result in a failure to maintain F-1 status and termination of the student’s SEVIS record.

Students who anticipate difficulty meeting a payment deadline should contact the appropriate University office as soon as possible to determine whether an approved payment arrangement or other exception is available. Requests for exceptions or payment plans are reviewed on a case-by-case basis and are not guaranteed.

F-1 students are required to maintain a full course of study unless a Designated School Official (DSO) authorizes a Reduced Course Load (RCL) in accordance with federal regulations. You must receive RCL authorization before reducing your enrollment or withdrawing from a course. An RCL is approved for one semester at a time and must be reauthorized if you remain eligible in a subsequent semester.

An RCL may be authorized only in the following circumstances:

• Academic difficulties: During your first academic term only, for initial difficulty with the English language, unfamiliarity with US teaching methods, or improper course placement. You must remain enrolled in at least 6 credits and return to a full course of study in the following required term. This type of RCL may be authorized only once during your program.
• Medical condition: For a temporary illness or medical condition documented by a licensed medical doctor, doctor of osteopathy, licensed or clinical psychologist, or psychiatrist. Medical RCL authorization must be renewed each semester and may not exceed a total of 12 months at the same program level.
• Completion of course of study: During your final semester, when you need fewer than the required number of credits to complete your program. You must be enrolled in all remaining courses required for degree completion.

Because reducing your enrollment can affect your F-1 status and employment eligibility, including CPT, do not drop or withdraw from a course before consulting your DSO and receiving authorization.

As an F-1 student, your primary purpose in the United States is to pursue and successfully complete your academic program. Your education must remain your primary focus throughout your time at United States University.

Employment and practical training opportunities are limited benefits available to eligible F-1 students. When practical training is included as part of your academic curriculum, it is intended to provide practical experience that supports your educational objectives. Employment authorization should complement your studies and must never replace your academic responsibilities or become the primary purpose of your F-1 status.

You must receive the appropriate authorization before beginning any employment, internship, or other activity that may be considered employment under federal regulations. Working without authorization is a violation of your F-1 status and may result in termination of your SEVIS record and loss of future immigration benefits.

Before accepting any employment opportunity or beginning any internship, consult with your Designated School Official (DSO) to determine whether authorization is required.

On campus

United States University does not currently offer on-campus employment opportunities for F-1 students.

CPT

Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is a type of F-1 employment authorization that allows eligible students to participate in practical training experiences that are an integral part of their established curriculum. CPT may include internships, cooperative education, or other required practical experiences that are directly related to a student's major field of study.

Participation in CPT is not automatic. CPT authorization is subject to federal regulations, University requirements, and approval by a Designated School Official (DSO). Students must meet all eligibility requirements before CPT authorization can be granted.

Your academic program and coursework must remain your primary purpose for maintaining F-1 status. CPT is intended to provide practical application of concepts learned through your academic program and must directly support your educational objectives.

CPT Eligibility Requirements

To participate in CPT, you must:

• Maintain valid F-1 status;
• Meet all University academic and CPT eligibility requirements;
• Be enrolled in the required course or curriculum component associated with the practical training experience;
• Have an employment opportunity directly related to your major field of study; and
• Receive CPT authorization from your DSO before beginning any employment activity.

Employment may not begin until CPT authorization has been approved and is listed on your Form I-20.

CPT Authorization Process

To request CPT authorization, you must submit the CPT Request form and all required documentation no later than two weeks before the start of the semester, or your requested start date. The DSO will thoroughly review your materials and contact you if there are any additional questions regarding your employment. Once all relevant information has been collected and you are deemed eligible, the DSO will authorize CPT by entering your employment details into the SEVIS system and issuing you an updated I-20. Once you have received your I-20 you may begin your CPT employment on or after your authorized start date.

Professional Symposium and Internship Requirement

United States University’s MBA and DBA programs include a one semester professional symposium or internship course as part of the academic curriculum. These courses are designed to provide practical application of academic concepts and allow you to gain experience related to your field of study.

If your program requires an internship experience, you must complete the required academic coursework and receive CPT authorization before beginning any internship employment connected to your program.

The purpose of the internship experience is to support your academic learning objectives. Maintaining progress toward your degree and successfully completing your academic requirements remain your primary responsibilities as an F-1 student.

OPT

Optional Practical Training (OPT) provides eligible F-1 students with temporary employment authorization directly related to their major field of study. OPT allows students to gain practical experience that complements their academic program.

OPT may be authorized before completion of your program through Pre-Completion OPT or after completion of your program through Post-Completion OPT.

OPT Eligibility

To qualify for OPT, you must:

• Maintain valid F-1 status;
• Complete at least one full academic year of study in qualifying status;
• Be completing or have completed your program of study;
• Seek employment directly related to your major field of study; and
• Meet all USCIS requirements.

OPT authorization is not automatic. Your DSO may recommend OPT in SEVIS; however, USCIS must approve your application before you may begin employment.
You may begin employment only after USCIS approves your OPT application, and you receive your Employment Authorization Document (EAD).

Pre-Completion OPT

Pre-Completion OPT allows you to participate in authorized practical training before completing your academic program. Employment may be authorized on a part-time or full-time basis depending on your circumstances and eligibility and must be related to your program of study. Pre-Completion authorization will deduct time eligibility from Post-Completion OPT.

Post-Completion OPT

Post-Completion OPT is employment authorization available after completion of your program of study. Employment must be directly related to your major field of study and must meet all OPT reporting requirements.

STEM Extension

USU does not currently offer any STEM extension eligible programs.

If you plan to travel outside the United States while in F-1 status, you must notify your DSO at least two weeks before your departure. Your DSO will review your records and, if appropriate, provide a valid travel endorsement on your Form I-20.

Before traveling, make sure you have:

• A valid passport that will remain valid for at least six months beyond your anticipated return date.
• A valid F-1 visa, unless you qualify for an exception.
• A valid Form I-20 with a current travel endorsement from your DSO.
• Evidence of continued enrollment and financial support, if requested.
• Documentation of your employment authorization, if you are participating in Curricular Practical Training (CPT) or Optional Practical Training (OPT).

Travel endorsements are generally valid for 12 months for continuing students and 6 months for students participating in Optional Practical Training (OPT).

When you arrive in the US, a Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer will review your documents and determine whether you are eligible to enter the United States in F-1 status. You should be prepared to answer questions about your academic program, the purpose of your travel, and your plans to continue your studies.

After your travels, retrieve your most recent electronic Form I-94 and review it carefully to ensure it reflects F-1 as your class of admission and that your period of authorized stay has been recorded correctly. If you notice any errors, contact your DSO immediately. You should also provide a copy of your updated Form I-94 to your DSO so your student record can be verified.

Students are strongly encouraged to discuss any international travel plans with their DSO well in advance of departure. Careful planning helps ensure you have the required documentation and can maintain compliance with F-1 immigration regulations.

When you complete your program, you must take action to maintain your F-1 status or depart the US within the required timeframe. Your options may include:

OPT

If eligible, you may apply for F-1 Optional Practical Training (OPT) to gain practical experience directly related to your field of study. OPT requires authorization from USCIS, and you should work with your DSO to understand eligibility requirements and application deadlines.

Change of educational level

If you are admitted to another eligible program at USU, you may be able to change your educational level. You must work with your DSO to complete the required SEVIS procedures and ensure you maintain valid F-1 status.

If your new program will extend beyond your AUD, you must also file an EOS application with USCIS to request an extension of your authorized stay.

Transfer

If you are admitted to another SEVP-certified institution, you may request to transfer your SEVIS record to that institution. You must work with your DSO to complete the transfer process and meet all applicable deadlines.

Depart the US

If you do not pursue OPT, continue your education, or transfer to another SEVP-certified institution, you must depart the US within the applicable grace period following completion of your program. You should consult your DSO before your program end date to confirm your specific departure deadline and any actions required before leaving the US.