Yes, Worcester State is an F-1 sponsoring institution and international students are welcome in the program. F-1 visa holders must study full-time (20 hours per week) at all times.
The I-20 is the Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant (F-1) Status and is the document that will enable you to apply for an F-1 visa.
The following documents need to accompany your application to the Intensive English Language Institute:
The Affidavit of Financial Support Form is included with your IELI application materials and is a form that you or a sponsor will complete to show that you have the necessary funds to support your first year of study.
Typically students will receive the I-20 within 2 weeks of being accepted to IELI.*
*The process for transfer students may vary.
I-20s for the IELI program are typically issued for 1 academic year (September to May, May to May, or January to December).
Please contact IELI and the International Programs Office (508-929-8305 or vporteirocejas@worcester.edu) so we can postpone your program to the next available semester and issue you a new I-20.
Yes. If you wish to continue your studies, you must apply to extend your stay by following the instructions provided by the International Programs Office.
As a student, you can stay in the United States as long as you have a valid I-20 and are attending classes. At the end of the program, you are able to stay in the United States for an additional 60 days.
Yes. F-1 visa holders are required to attend classes regularly and make forward process in their studies.
Yes. Once you have completed 1 full academic year (including both a fall and spring semester), you are eligible for a summer vacation.
If you wish to travel to another country while a student visa holder, you may do so during vacation periods provided you have met with the International Programs Office prior to your departure. You are responsible for determining if you need a visa for the destination country.
As an F-1 visa holder, you will be able to work on-campus only up to 20 hours per week while school is in session. A student handbook with names and locations of potential campus jobs will be provided to you at the IELI orientation.
Visit the International Programs area of the My Woo State student portal. A student login is required. Refer to your IELI acceptance materials for your Worcester State network login credentials. If you do not have your credentials, visit the International Applicants page.
You will receive detailed instructions regarding obtaining your visa with your I-20. You can also find useful information about preparing for your visa interview.
