International Students Orientation
Steps for obtaining your F-1 Visa:
- For information regarding student visas, visit the Department of State website.
- Submit the application for the enrollment form completed online, by email, postal mail, or bring it to one of our Centers.
- Send an initial application enrollment fee of $150 (non-refundable) along with an administrative fee of $350 (non-refundable), and a minimum payment of twelve weeks of tuition (refundable if a student does not participate in the program). The remaining tuition is due upon arrival.
- Submit a copy of the information and visa pages on your passport and a passport-sized picture.
- Send three months of certified bank statements showing a balance of at least US $160 per student to cover living expenses per week, for the duration of the program. This is in addition to the cost of the program. Add $100 per dependent, per week.
- In the event that a sponsor will cover the student’s expenses while in the US, present the last three most recent bank statements of the sponsor or company responsible for paying student’s expenses, showing the above-mentioned balance and a letter addressed to Lingua School, Inc. signed by the sponsor and notarized, where he/she commits to paying all study and living expenses for the student for the duration of the program of study (sample attached). Should the sponsor be a company, all letters must be on the company’s letterhead. Please click here for a sample letter.
- All payments must be made to Lingua School, Inc. Forms of payment include cashier’s check, Visa, American Express, MasterCard or Discover Card, money order, or wire transfer.
- I-20s will be processed upon receipt of all supporting documents and issued along with an acceptance letter within a week.
- Pay the required I-901 SEVIS fee for F1 visa applicants
- Make an appointment at your nearest consulate or embassy and make sure to bring all the necessary documents to your appointment. A complete list of documents is available on the Department of State website.
Additional Requirements and Available Services:
- Health Insurance (Mandatory for F1 students): This can be processed in your country of origin or through Lingua. Click here for a free quote, to request a health insurance quote and/or to obtain health insurance through one of Lingua’s trusted partners, Atlas Travel Insurance.
- Housing Arrangements: Lingua can assist you in finding accommodations with an American family or in an apartment/hotel. Please contact our homestay provider Student RoomStay.
- Transportation: Lingua can also assist the student with transportation from the airport and/or contracting with a car leasing agency (only for students of legal age). Please contact our corporate office by phone or e-mail to make arrangements.
What to Pack:
The following is a partial list of items that may be needed during your stay, Please check with the Transportation Security Administration for a list of items that you are not allowed to bring into the United States.
- All important documents, including your valid passport and visa, I-20, proof of ability to support yourself financially, Lingua’s registration form and payment receipts, Lingua Center’s address, email, and phone number.
- Medicines (if needed) accompanied by a doctor’s prescription.
- Medical records for serious medical conditions.
- Eye glasses and/or contact lenses if needed.
- Comfortable walking shoes.
- Hat, sunglasses, bathing suit, beach towel, flip-flops, and sunscreen.
- Appropriate clothing for class. Please bring a sweater and/or jacket to class and/or dress in layers. The classrooms are air-conditioned.
Starting Classes:
- You must show up for class on the start date indicated on your I-20.
- You will receive an orientation presentation and our Academic Catalog on your first day.
Travel or Vacations:
- You must contact the Designated School Official (DSO) prior to making vacation and/or travel plans.
Maintaining F-1 Status:
- You must comply with the attendance policy as outlined in the Academic Catalog.
- You must be in good standing and make satisfactory academic progress as outlined in the Academic Catalog.
Transfers:
- The DSO and School Director will assist you with transfers to U.S. colleges and universities.
- Broward College’s International Student Advisors are available on-site to assist you with all the requirements for transferring to a degree program
During Your Stay:
Everyone at Lingua Center would like you to have a safe and enjoyable experience during your stay.
- It is very important that you follow common sense safety precautions at all times.
- We can provide you with brochures and tourist information for the Fort Lauderdale and Weston areas and make recommendations for day trips, restaurants, museums, sports, cultural events, etc.
- From time to time, we arrange extra-curricular activities so that you can immerse yourself in the culture while practicing your English with your classmates.
- We can provide you with information on how to obtain your driver license.
- We can provide you with information on how to obtain your auto insurance.
- We can provide you with information on how to and where to purchase a vehicle.
- The School Director and the rest of the Lingua staff can provide advice on academic and/or cultural matters and help you with the transition into the new culture.
- The School Administrator can provide assistance with financial matters, housing, transportation, etc.
