F-1 Visa & Immigration Process for International Students | Concordia University Texas
After you are admitted to Concordia University Texas and pay the enrollment fee, our team will issue your Form I-20, the document you need to begin the F-1 visa process. The steps below outline what to expect based on whether you are a first-time student, a transfer from another U.S. school, or a graduate student.
Visa at a Glance
Form I-20: Issued after admission and payment of $3,000 enrollment fee
SEVIS Fee: Pay the I-901 fee before scheduling your embassy interview
Visa Interview: Bring I-20, passport, financial proof, and transcripts
Arrival: Enter the U.S. up to 30 days before your program start date
Work Eligibility: Up to 19 hours/week on campus; CPT/OPT options for graduate students
Initial F-1 Visa Students (First-Time in College and Graduate)
Step 1: Receive Your I-20
- Issued after admission and submission of the $3,000 enrollment fee
- Includes your SEVIS ID number and program details
Step 2: Pay the SEVIS I-901 Fee
- Required by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security before scheduling your visa interview
- Pay the I-901 Fee
Step 3: Apply for Your Visa
- Use your I-20 to schedule an F-1 visa interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate
- Prepare to show financial documents, transcripts, and proof of English proficiency
Step 4: Arrive in the U.S.
- You may enter up to 30 days before the program start date on your I-20
Transfer Students from Another U.S. School
Required Documents
- Passport
- Proof of financial support and sponsor affidavit (if applicable)
- Official U.S. transcript, plus transcript evaluation for any non-U.S. coursework
- Proof of English proficiency
- Copy of current I-20
Transfer Process
- Upon admission, Concordia Texas will provide a Transfer-In Form.
- Work with your current school’s DSO to release your SEVIS record to Concordia Texas.
- Once released, Concordia will issue your new I-20.
Graduate Students (MBA/MCS)
Graduate students follow the same process as FTIC or Transfer students depending on their situation. Additional notes:
- MBA students with GPA below 2.75 may be asked to submit an essay for review.
- Resume is required for MBA applicants.
- Some students may need to complete leveling modules in business foundations.
Maintaining Your Visa Status
- Full-Time Enrollment: Required each semester (12 credit hours undergraduate; 6 credit hours graduate).
- Employment: F-1 students may work on campus up to 19 hours per week. Graduate students may also be eligible for CPT (Curricular Practical Training) or OPT (Optional Practical Training). Speak with your DSO for eligibility.
- Valid Documentation: Keep your I-20, passport, and visa current at all times.
Helpful Resources
- Student Visa Overview – U.S. State Department
- Visa Interview Tips – American University ISSS
- NAFSA: 10 Points to Remember When Applying for a Student Visa
Ready to Begin?
Our admissions team and Designated School Officials (DSOs) will guide you through the visa process from start to finish.