For many students, the process of obtaining a visa to study in the United States can seem daunting. We are here to help you with the process, but the first step in the process is for you to provide us with some critical pieces of information. This page gives you an overview of the process and contains links to the Tufts International Center with specific instructions and help for each step towards obtaining the documents required for your visa.
Any students currently in the United States on a J-1 Visa should write to Reiko Ohmura, Senior International Student and Scholar Advisor for Fletcher, regarding how this process will proceed for you.
STEP 1: Submit the “Visa Document Request” form by June 30, 2021.
Follow this process to request your student visa document (Form I-20 or Form DS-2019). Important: You cannot request a visa document until you have been admitted and paid your enrollment deposit confirming that you will come to Fletcher.
STEP 2: Receive your “Certificate of Eligibility Form” (I-20 FOR F-1, DS-2019 FOR J-1)
Once you have your visa document(s) from Tufts, you can take steps to apply for the appropriate visa at a US consulate overseas. As a rule, you should plan on applying for a visa in your country of citizenship or country of legal permanent residence. The time it takes to get a visa appointment, and exact visa application procedures, will vary from consulate to consulate, so consult the web site of your consulate for more information. Planning ahead is also extremely important, as visa processes can take a few days to several months, depending on individual circumstances.
STEP 3: Come to Fletcher!
Here, you will find resources and reminders to help you make a successful transition to Fletcher. As always, contact the International Center if you have any questions!
STEP 4: Orientation and Check-In
Orientation is designed to assist you in your transition to Fletcher. The information sessions and workshops will help familiarize you with Fletcher and Tufts and aid in planning your academic program. The social activities will also offer opportunities to meet and start building relationships with your classmates.