How to Obtain a Visa
- After you are admitted to UNL, Admissions will send you an I-20 or DS-2019 form.
- Pay the SEVIS fee. You'll need the SEVIS ID number from your I-20 or DS-2019.
- Make an appointment at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate to apply for an F-1 or J-1 visa. Take with you to the visa appointment all immigration paperwork (I-20 or DS-2019, passport, letter of admission, financial support documents, photos, and all other necessary forms).
- Complete the online check-in form.
Which Visa is Right For Me?
Most international students in the U.S. have F-1 visa status; of the remainder, most have J-1 status.
| F-1 Visa Status | J-1 Visa Status | |
| Source of Funding | Financial support from family and personal funds | Financial support from home government, U.S. government, or an international organization funded by either government. |
| INA 212(e) | Not subject to this requirement | Some students may be subject to INA 212(e) |
| On-Campus Employment | May be employed:
| May be employed:
|
| Off-Campus Employment | Eligible for 12 months of OPTrelated to academic major, during or after program of study. No job offer is required when applying for OPT. Eligible for CPT if approved by academic advisor. Part-time during school, full-time during semester breaks. | Eligible for 18 to 36 months of Academic Training after degree completion. To apply, student must have a written job offer before graduating. |
| Dependents | Dependents of F-1 visa holders (F-2) cannot work or attend school | Dependents of J-1visa holders (J-2) may apply for authorization to work or attend school |