Information for J-1 to F-1

After you have received an admission letter from the Office of Admissions or Office of Graduate Admissions, you must obtain an F-1 visa. OU ISS requires you to apply for an F-1 visa outside the United States at a US Embassy or Consulate.

The steps to obtain an F-1 visa are:

1. Make an appointment and speak with the Exchange Student Coordinator
2. Complete the Change of Status form
3. Receive your I-20 in 3 to 10 business days of submitting your completed request to ISS
4. Pay the SEVIS I-901 fee online at www.fmjfee.com
5. Make an appointment for an F-1 visa interview at a US Embassy or Consulate outside the US. Check the embassy or consular website for additional information regarding the visa application process.
   • Take your I-20, admission letter, and financial documentation to your visa interview.
6. Depart the US within 30 days of the end date on your DS-2019 to apply for your F-1 visa.

For additional information on 212(e) and applying for a waiver