Prospective Students & Scholars

The International House has put together this information and links to useful Web sites with information about the visa application process and pre-departure information for students and scholars planning to attend WPI.

Getting a Visa

When applying for a U.S. visa you will need an I-20 form or form DS-2019 from WPI. These forms will be issued once you admission or acceptance of a position with the respective offices has been completed.

Before you get started on the visa application process we encourage you to look at the U.S. Department of State Destination USA Web site for information about U.S. Visa Policy and the latest on how to get a U.S. visa. When the U.S. Consulate issues your visa the duration of the visa and the fee you have to pay is dependent on different factors. In addition to the length of your planned program of study/work at WPI the duration of the visa and the fee is also based on Reciprocity Agreements.

In addition, students and scholars on F-1 and J-1 visa will have to pay an additional $100 SEVIS Fee before applying for the visa. The SEVIS Fee regulations have just been published and the fee takes effect September 1, 2004. The current regulations include several fee payment options. Students and exchange visitors will have the option to pay with check (U.S. $ drawn on a U.S. bank) by mail or by credit card via the internet. Since the practical procedures have not been finalized we advise you to consult the website for the consulate where you will be applying for your visa.

Preparing for Your Trip

In preparing for your trip we recommend you contact the local Institute of International Education Office for any pre-arrival information they might have. Students and Scholars from China are encouraged to look at the Pre-departure Orientation For Chinese Students Web site from NAFSA-The Association of International Educators.

Arriving in the United States

It is important to think about arrival procedure at your port of entry before you leave home. On the day of your arrival, you will probably be tired after a long flight. It may be your first day in an English speaking country.

What Happens on Arrival

You will present your documentation to the Department of Homeland Security Official and you will be photographed and electronically fingerprinted. This process is known as the US-Visit Program, which includes fingerprinting a digital photo. We recommend you look at the website to familiarize yourself with the process and the purpose before you leave for the United States. After passing immigration inspection you will collect your luggage and you will show your luggage to the Customs official. Finally you will exit into the arrivals hall, and now you are on your own in the United States!

What to Do Next

Change money - You will need some money for telephone calls, transportation, food, etc. There should be a bank in the airport. Or, you may want to bring some US dollars with you, in case you arrive late at night.
If your onward travel is by plane, you will clear immigration and customs at your first port of entry in the US. You will then recheck your luggage to your final destination. Some airports have a luggage transfer counter; others will ask you to take it to the new airline counter to check in.
If you need to go into the city to catch a bus or train or to stay overnight, locate the Ground Transportation Desk. Tell the attendant where you want to go; you will be told which companies operate on that route and their costs. A city bus may be cheaper than a taxi. It is important to be sure that you use licensed taxis; the unlicensed one might cheat you.
If you need to stay somewhere overnight, ask for suggestions in your price range. The YMCA offers budget accommodations.

Who Can Help

Americans are used to being asked for help. Don't be afraid to ask, but you should choose the person(s) you ask. The person(s) best able to help you are:

Travelers Aid Desk - Most airports have a Travelers Aid desk, which is staffed by volunteers who are ready to help travelers.
Information or Ground Transportation Desk
Officials in uniform, such as airline personnel and airport police

Maintained by webmaster@wpi.edu
Last modified: Jul 02, 2007, 12:09 EDT