To apply for an I-20, you must submit the following:

• A completed Application Form [PDF] signed by the student;
• A High School Diploma or University Transcript with an OFFICIAL English translation;
• Proof of Financial Evidence. (All financial documents must be translated into English and the account balance stated in U. S. currency.) Please send ONE of the following:
  • An official bank letter with date the account was opened, the current balance and the average balance over the past six months;
  • A letter on company letterhead from the sponsor’s employer giving the sponsor’s annual salary and length of employment;
  • Copies of the sponsor’s previous year’s tax returns if he/she is self-employed in the U.S. and
• A NOTARIZED Affidavit of Support Form [PDF] if someone else will sponsor you;
• A money order for U.S. $200.00 made payable to LaGuardia Community College. This is a processing fee and is non-refundable. The fee will be deducted from your tuition fee when you register for classes.

Deadlines for I-20 applications from abroad for the 2008-2009 academic year will be available soon.

If your visa application is approved, the consular official will stamp the F-1 visa in your passport and return your I-20, financial documentation and the letter of acceptance.

When you arrive in the U.S., the Immigration officer at the port of entry will

• Ask to see your passport;

• Ask to see your Form I-20 and will return pages 1 and 3 (the student copy) of the I-20;

• Give you an I-94 form (a small white piece of paper) which will be stamped with the date of entry and stapled to your passport.

PLEASE SECURE THESE DOCUMENTS SAFELY. THEY ARE VERY IMPORTANT!

AFTER ARRIVING IN NEW YORK:

• Come to The English Language Center by the date stated in your acceptance letter.
• Bring your passport, form I-20 and the balance of your tuition fee.
• Register for classes in either the Morning or Afternoon Day Intensive Program (DIP AM or DIP PM).