On July 17, 2026, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security published a that establishes a fixed time period of admission and an extension of stay procedure that impact students and scholars on F-1 and J-1 visas, and other academic restrictions specifically for F-1 students. The rule is anticipated to take effect Sept. 15, 2026 and will affect members of the international community in different ways. As OISS gathers more information and communicates specific guidance to individuals and groups, we ask that members of the international community refer to the DHS Rule on Admission and Extension webpage as an up-to-date resource. Members of the Northwestern international community who have questions are encouraged to reach out directly to their assigned .
Apply for a Visa Stamp
Pay the SEVIS Fee
You must have your I-20 or DS-2019 prior to paying the SEVIS fee. To obtain your immigration document refer here: Immigration Document Request .
Newly admitted F-1 and J-1 students must pay the SEVIS (I-901) fee before applying for a visa. This fee is separate from university and consular fees.
- Canadian citizens do not need an F-1/J-1 visa stamp but must still pay the SEVIS fee.
- Dependents (F-2/J-2) do not need to pay this fee.
Schedule Your Visa Appointment
F-1 Visas can be issued up to 365 days before your I-20 start date, so long as you have been issued the I-20. J-1 exchange visitors may apply at any point after receiving the DS-2019 You may enter the U.S. up to 30 days before your program start date. If admitted to multiple schools, you must choose your institution before applying for a visa and apply with that institutions I-20
Find a U.S. Embassy or Consulate and schedule an appointment online:
Visa processing times vary. Check the Department of State website for estimated processing times at your chosen embassy.
Set Your Social Media Profiles to Public
U.S. Department of State . According to the announcement, “all applicants for F, M, and J nonimmigrant visas will be instructed to adjust the privacy settings on all of their social media profiles to ‘public.’”
Required Documents
To apply for an F-1 or J-1 visa, you’ll need:
- Valid passport
- I-20 or DS-2019 from Northwestern
- SEVIS (I-901) fee receipt
- Passport-style photos (check embassy specifications)
- Financial documentation
- Marriage/birth certificate (if dependents are applying separately)
- Any other document(s) required by your specific U.S. embassy/consulate’s website
Please note that students admitted to multiple schools must decide which school to attend before applying for a visa stamp.
Expedited Visa Appointments
If delays could prevent your timely arrival, you may request an expedited appointment. First, submit the DS-160 form, pay the visa fee, and schedule the earliest available appointment. Then, request an expedited interview if necessary, providing your I-20/DS-2019 as proof of your start date.
More details: How to Request an Expedited Interview.