Passport
What is it for?
A passport serves as a form of identification and proof of citizenship. It enables you to enter a foreign country and re-enter your home country.
Where can you get it?
At the appropriate office in your home country, or if you lose it in the U.S., at your nearest home country embassy or consulate.
Do you have to renew it? When? How?
Yes, six months before it expires. Apply at the appropriate office in your home country, or in your consulate or embassy in the U.S.
F-1 Visa
What is it for?
An F-1 visa gives you permission to ENTER the U.S. As long as you stay in the U.S., you do not need a valid visa. If you leave the U.S., you will need a valid visa to re-enter the U.S. A visa cannot be renewed in the U.S.
Where can you get it?
At a U.S. embassy abroad. You can only get a U.S. visa outside of the U.S.
Do you have to renew it? When? How?
If your visa expires, you do not need to renew it as long as you stay in the U.S. If you leave the U.S. and wish to return in F-1 status you must renew your visa. It is recommended that you apply at a U.S. embassy in your home country.
Form I-94
What is it for?
A Form I-94 is an arrival and departure record that documents your entry to the U.S. and gives you permission to STAY in the U.S. It is usually valid for as long as your program of study. (Duration of Status or D/S).
Where can you get it?
If you enter the U.S. by land you will receive your Form I-94 at the border. If you enter the U.S. by air or sea your Form I-94 is automated, and you can get a printout of it at https://i94.cbp.dhs.gov. You should print a copy after each entry to the U.S.
Do you have to renew it? When? How?
Only if you have a specific date noted on your Form, your form should say D/S (Duration of Status), if it does not you must apply for an "extension of stay". Please meet with the Director of Global & Career Services for guidance.
Form I-20
What is it for?
A Form I-20 shows where you are attending school, what you are studying, and how long you will need to complete your program.
Where can you get it?
From the school you are attending in the U.S.
Do you have to renew it? When? How?
You must request a new Form I-20 if any of the information on your form changes (major, source or amount of funding, program end date).
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