Visa Information

International Students

There are three visa categories that allow international students to study in the United States of America: F-1, M-1 and J-1. All three require the recipient to be enrolled in a full-time program of study.

The F-1 student visa is the most commonly used. To obtain an F-1, as well as an M-1, from a United States Consul, you must present the following:

  • I-20 Certificate of Eligibility
  • Valid passport
  • Proof of financial support

A J-1 visa is acquired by presenting the following:

  • Form IAP-66 (issued by your sponsor)
  • Valid passport
  • Proof of financial support

We advise you to apply for your visa as early as possible. If your I-20 or IAP-66 does not arrive in time to obtain the proper visa, you will need to fill out a B-2 prospective student visa, marked "Prospective student to attend Hudson Valley Community College." Do not enter the U.S.A. on a B-2 visitor's visa.

Applying for a Visa at a border post if you are a Third Country National present in the United States, visiting Canada or Mexico