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 your admission or acceptance of a position with a respective office at the university has been completed. Approximate processing times for both the I-20 and DS-2019 forms are 2-3 weeks.
Before you begin the visa application process, we strongly encourage you to look at the U.S. visas and visitors website to learn about U.S. visa policy and the latest information 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 visas have to pay an additional SEVIS Fee before applying for the visa. The SEVIS Fee regulations have recently increased and the new Fee of $200 has been in effect since October 27th, 2008. Students and exchange visitors can visit the Department of Homeland Security website to learn more about the SEVIS Fee and how to pay the Fee.