Degree-seeking students that need a visa to study at UWM should obtain an F-1 visa. Students participating in an exchange program, or degree-seeking students required by their sponsor, should obtain a J-1 visa.
After you are admitted to UWM, you must request an I-20 (F-1) or DS-2019 (J-1), the official U.S. document required for your student visa application. Your I-20/DS-2019 indicates the school you are attending, level of education, area of study, expected program completion date, and information on how you will finance your education.
Requesting your I-20 or DS-2019
You will be able to request your I-20 or DS-2019 in your application portal after you have viewed your admission letter. When the request is available, look for the form titled “Do you need an I-20 (F-1) or DS-2019 (J-1) to study at UWM on a student visa?” and follow the instructions.
Deadline to request your I-20 or DS-2019:
- Students in the U.S.: The first day of classes
- Students outside the U.S.: July 15 for fall intake; January 1 for spring intake
Earliest date an I-20 or DS-2019 can be issued:
- Early September for fall intakes
- Early June for spring intakes
Please allow two weeks for your I-20 or DS-2019 to be issued. Documents are issued in the order they are received. We are unable to expedite or prioritize requests, even in special situations.
Additionally, we cannot provide letters for expedited visa requests.
Resources for Student Visa Application
- Applying for your student visa:
- EducationUSA’s instructions on applying for your visa
- U.S. Department of State student visa website
- Online visa application form DS-160
- Use information from your I-20/DS-2019 to complete the form
- Schedule your visa interview at your local embassy or consulate
- Pay your SEVIS fee
- Use the School Code and SEVIS ID number on your I-20/DS-2019
- Visa Interview Required Documents (U.S Department of State)