International Student Visas

Excited to start studying in the U.S.?

Please find below the details on international student visas, I-20 forms, the visa application process, and more.

• Initial I-20: Issued to new students entering the U.S. to begin their studies, this form must be used to apply for the F-1 visa at the U.S. embassy or consulate.
• Transfer I-20: For students transferring from another U.S. institution, this form is issued after your SEVIS record is transferred to Avila University Arizona.

1. Complete the application process: Submit your application to Avila University Arizona and receive an offer of admission.
2. Submit financial documentation: Provide proof of sufficient funds to cover tuition and living expenses. This can include bank statements, sponsorship letters, or scholarship details. For more details about sufficient funds, please refer to the International Student Financial Proof and Affidavit of Support Document.
3. Pay the enrollment deposit: Pay a non-refundable enrollment deposit of $500 to secure your spot at Avila University Arizona. This deposit is required before issuing your I-20 form.
4. Pay the SEVIS fee: Use your SEVIS ID (found on your I-20) to pay the SEVIS I-901 fee online at FMJfee.
5. Receive your I-20 form: Once your financial documents are verified and the SEVIS fee is paid, your I-20 form will be issued and sent to you.

At Avila University Arizona, we welcome students from around the world to join our vibrant academic community.

To study with us as an international student, first you’ll need to obtain an F-1 student visa. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to apply for a student visa:

Step 1: Obtain your I-20 form.

Step 2: Pay the SEVIS fee.

Step 3: Complete the DS-160 form.

Step 4: Schedule a visa interview

Step 5: Prepare for your visa interview.

Step 6: Your visa is approved.

• Visa denials: If your visa is denied, the consular officer will provide a reason. You may reapply if you can address the issues mentioned.
• Travel restrictions: Keep track of any travel restrictions that may affect your entry into the U.S.

If you have any questions about the visa process or need assistance upon arrival, our Designated School Official (DSO) will be available on campus to support you. You can contact the DSO for guidance on maintaining your visa status, updating your SEVIS record and any other concerns related to your F-1 student visa.

For more detailed information, please contact our Admissions office at admissions@arizona.avila.edu for assistance. We look forward to welcoming you to Avila University Arizona!

F-1 students must have sufficient funds to successfully study in the United States without resorting to unauthorized U.S. employment for financial support. F-1 students must provide documentary evidence that sufficient funds are, or will be, available to defray all expenses during the entire period of anticipated study.

Evidence of financial ability for prospective F-1 and M-1 students includes, but is not limited to:

• Family bank statements
• Documentation from a sponsor
• Financial aid letters
• Scholarship letters
• A letter from an employer showing annual salary

Check the complete list of Required Financial Support Documents here.

It is generally required that the applicant has enough readily available funds to meet all expenses for the first year of study, or the length of the program, whichever is shorter. Additionally, applicants must demonstrate that, barring unforeseen circumstances, adequate funds will be available for each subsequent year of study.

Learn more about eligibility requirements for sufficient funds on the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website and
Department of Homeland Security (DHS) website.