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 Immigration Document
F-1 Students: The email with your official admission letter will include instructions on how to request your I-20 or DS-2019 through the online portal: ISSS Connect. You must provide the following:
- Passport biographical page
- Proof of funding required documentation
- For students bringing dependents (spouse or children):
- Passport biographical page for each dependent
- Additional proof of funding
- For students currently in the U.S. with an active SEVIS Record:
- Completion of a SEVIS record transfer questionnaire
- Verification that your current school will transfer your Active SEVIS Record
J-1 Students: You will work with your ISSS program coordinator to request your DS-2019 to request your DS-2019. The minimum required documents you will provide are:
- Passport biographical page
- Proof of funding
Resources for Student Visa Application
- Applying for your student visa:
- Education USA’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)