F-1 Visas:  Study Abroad Student Visa Information

J-1 Visas:  Exchange Student Visa Information

Getting your Visa:

As soon as you receive your I-20 or DS-2019, make an appointment to obtain your visa at the nearest U.S. Embassy. Even though a visa cannot be granted more than 120 days in advance of the program start date, you should submit your application to accommodate long processing times for security clearances.

Visa procedures vary from one embassy to another. You will need various documents to support your visa application. Before you apply for your visa, ask your embassy what documents you need to bring to your appointment.  Prepare your documents carefully before you visit your U.S. embassy.

These are several standard items needed:

• A current, valid passport - good for at least six months beyond your expected stay
• An I-20 or DS-2019 form (Longwood University will send you this)
• Acceptance letter from Longwood University
• Evidence of financial support for the period of time and amount indicated on the I-20 / DS-2019
• Proof that you have a permanent residence outside the United States
• One or more passport-type photographs
• A non-immigrant visa application

If you do not obtain a visa, contact us right away so that we may prepare to admit you in a later semester. 


Your Visa Interview:

• Take proof that you have a reason to return to your home country. Examples: job, family, financial prospects, investments, etc.

• Take proof that you have enough money to support yourself while you are at Longwood University.

• Take your acceptance letter.

• Be ready to answer these types of questions.

  1. Why do you want to study in the United States?

  2. Why did you choose Troy University?

  3. Why can't you get the intended degree in your home country?

  4. What do you want to do after you finish your degree?

• Be sure of your answers and be brief.

• Speak for yourself. Do not bring a parent or spouse to the interview.

• Remember your main purpose is to get an education, not to work.

• DO NOT say that you intend to stay in the United States.  You must show a plan for what you will do once you return to your country.

Study Abroad Student Visa Information (F-1 Visa)

Exchange Student Visa Information (J-1 Visa)