Information for New International Students

This page provides an overview of the process from acceptance at Babson to arrival on campus in F-1 student or J-1 exchange visitor immigration status.

Most nonimmigrants accepted to Babson for full-time study are eligible to apply for F-1 status. Exchange students enrolling in one or two semesters of full-time study at Babson should apply for J-1 exchange visitor status. If currently in the U.S. in a status other than F-1/J-1, email isss@babson.edu for guidance on whether you can continue to study in this status or if a change of immigration status is required.

How to Join Babson in F-1/J-1 Student Status:

1. Acceptance to Babson.
Information on admission to Babson varies depending on whether you are joining Babson as an undergraduate, graduate, summer or exchange student.
2. Complete the Declaration/Certification of Finances (DEC).

The DEC verifies ability and intent to pay the cost of your academic program.  You will receive instructions for accessing the DEC after you have been accepted and have made a deposit.  

3. REQUEST a Form I-20 (F-1) or Form DS-2019 (J-1) from Babson  

Make your request by emailing isss@babson.edu a scanned copy of the following:

    • DEC and supporting financial documentation (do not mail originals- you will need these for your visa interview).
    • Passport identification and expiration page(s)
      • If you will be accompanied by dependent family members, you also must submit copies of their passport identification page(s).
    • If you are currently attending another U.S. school in F-1 or J-1 status, you must submit additional documentation as outlined on our Transfer Page.
4. Pay the SEVIS I-901 fee 
    • For detailed information about the SEVIS Fee and payment options, click here.
5. Schedule a visa interview and apply for the F-1/J-1 entry visa  
    • For detailed instructions on scheduling and preparing for a visa interview click here.
    • Canadian citizens are not required to apply for an F-1/J-1 entry visa but must still pay the SEVIS I-901 fee and request entry to the U.S. in F-1/J-1 status.
6. ARRIVE AT THE U.S. BORDER AND enter THE U.S. IN F-1/J-1 status
    • Enter no earlier than 30 days before the program start date on Form I-20/Form DS-2019.
    • If arriving after the program start date indicated on Form I-20/DS-2019, contact OIP for further instructions.
7. Check in with OIP
    • Bring your original passport, Form I-20/DS-2019, Form I-94 and visa
    • Attend a required orientation session on maintaining lawful F-1/J-1 status in the U.S.
    • Orientation schedules vary based on your program of study. 
Following these steps will facilitate your lawful entry into the United States. Please start this process early so that your documentation is completed as soon as possible.
New International Students