Required Documents (Must Bring Originals)
✅ Passport
Valid for 6+ months beyond program start date
At least one blank page for visa stamp
✅ Form I-20 (Original)
Signed by you on page 1
No photocopies accepted
✅ DS-160 Confirmation Page
Printed page with barcode
✅ Visa Application Fee Receipt
Proof of $185 payment
✅ Visa Integrity Fee Receipt
Proof of $250 payment
✅ SEVIS Fee Receipt
Proof of $350 I-901 payment
✅ Passport Photo
Physical copy (white background, recent, U.S. requirements)
Organization tip: Use folder or clear sleeve to keep documents unwrinkled.
Supporting Documents (Strongly Recommended)
Financial Proof:
Officers need evidence you can afford school without illegal employment.
Bring:
Bank statements (last 3-6 months, yours or parents')
Bank letters on official letterhead confirming balance
Athletic scholarship letters showing amount
Sponsor affidavits (if applicable)
Tax returns or financial documents
Note: Show 1.5-2 years' worth of expenses, not just one year.
Academic Documents:
High school transcripts
Diplomas or graduation certificates
SAT/ACT scores
TOEFL/IELTS scores
College acceptance letter
Purpose: Proves academic qualification and genuine college acceptance.
Proof of Home Country Ties:
Critical importance: Primary denial reason is suspicion of intent to remain in U.S. permanently.
Bring evidence showing reasons to return home:
Property ownership documents (family home or land)
Family ties (marriage certificate, children's birth certificates if applicable)
Post-graduation job offers
Letters from employers
Business ownership documents
Any evidence of established life in home country
Officer's asses: "Will this person return home after graduation or attempt to remain permanently?"
Athletic Documents:
Coach's recruitment confirmation letter
Scholarship offer letter
Athletic resume
Competition results, statistics, records
Media coverage (optional)
Purpose: Substantiates your student-athlete status.