International Student Admission
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Visas
A visa is required to enter the United States. Most international students enter the country on an F-1 student visa. F-1 visas are nonimmigrant visas that are granted to applicants who want to pursue a full course of academic study at a U.S. university. (Some students are required to hold a J-1 student/scholar visa by their sponsoring agency.)
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I-20 Form
After you have been admitted to the University of Wisconsin, we will send you an I-20 form, which is required to apply for or maintain an F-1 visa. Before you can be admitted and receive the I-20 form, you must submit the UW-Madison Financial Verification Form and proof of full financial support (both are required parts of your application for admission).
Applying for a Visa
UW-Madison Campus
To apply for a student visa, you will need to take your letter of admission, I-20 form, original copies of your financial support documents, and other supporting materials (as needed) to a U.S. embassy or consulate. You should do this as soon as possible. Recent changes in U.S. visa laws and regulations have increased the amount of time it can take to get a visa. Processing times will vary. Please contact your nearest embassy or consulate for a current time estimate and planning recommendations.