M-1 Visa Steps & Regulations
Once you are accepted into the program
The Director of Student Affairs will send you an email explaining the next steps below in more detail.
First step
You need to obtain your I-20. This document certifies your eligibility to apply for a student visa. In order to provide you with an I-20, you will need financial documentation showing that you have a minimum of $15,000.00 USD available to you plus whatever tuition money you still owe (a maximum of $32,000.00 USD). This documentation can come in the form of a bank statement or a letter from your accountant or financial institution. If you are being financially supported by a friend or family member you will need to present their financial documentation as well as a letter from that person saying that they are supporting you.
second step
Submit the above materials.
Third step
Once you have submitted your materials, you should expect your I-20 within 7 to 10 days. Please note that you will be financially responsible for the shipping costs associated with having your I-20 shipped to you.
Once you have received your I-20 you can make an appointment with the US consulate in your home country for your Visa appointment. You will need to pay a fee of $200.00 USD for your form I-901 before you have this appointment as you will need to bring the receipt with you in order to get your Visa.
Most students leave their appointments with their student visa in hand. You should contact the Director of Student Affairs at this time and let them know of your approved status.
fourth step
You will be able to enter the US 30 days prior to the start of the program so you should not book a flight earlier than that date. You will need to show your I-20 and your Visa every time you enter the US so please take care to keep them safe.
Other information to know
The Director of Student Affairs will meet with all International Students during the first week of school in order to register you in the SEVIS system and to sign your I-20 travel endorsement. Please note that any time you travel outside of the US during your time at Atlantic, you will need to have your I-20 signed beforehand.
You I-20 is good for one year. At the end of your first year of study you will have the option to extend your I-20 which will require you to remain in the US while you wait for the decision OR you can complete your I-20 and be issued a new one before traveling outside of the US for the summer break.
Please note that you will be issued an M-1 Visa. This means that you cannot work legally in the US any time during your studies at Atlantic. You are welcome to volunteer your time and talents but you cannot receive financial compensation. Failure to comply can result in deportation.
After you graduate
After you graduate, if you wish to stay in the US, you can apply for up to 6 months of OPT. You may also decide to apply for an O-1 artist’s visa or enter the green card lottery. An immigration lawyer will be brought in to do a guest class with all international students every spring semester in order to explain your options in greater details.