Do I need a visa to study on the exchange program?
What kind of visa do I need?
Can I apply for my visa now?
When will I receive my DS-2019?
I received my DS-2019, now what do I do?
Do I need a visa to study on the exchange program?
 Yes, all non-US citizen exchange students need a visa for their period of study at the University of Minnesota. You must obtain a student visa before arriving in the US. If you arrive without one, you may be able to enter the country on a tourist visa but will be required to return to your home country to apply for the necessary visa documents.
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What kind of visa do I need?
You need a J-1 (exchange visitor) student visa for the exchange program. This temporary visa is good only for the time during which you are enrolled in the exchange program.
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Can I apply for my visa now?
You must be accepted into the exchange program before you can apply for a visa. After formal acceptance from the University of Minnesota, the International Programs office will submit a J-1visa request to the International Student & Scholar Services office on your behalf. When this process is complete, you'll receive a DS-2019. You must have this document in order to apply for a J-1 student visa.
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When will I receive my DS-2019?
In general, exchange students receive DS-2019s in early July for fall semester and in November for spring semester. Late applications will delay this process, and you should submit all materials for both the exchange and visa documents by the deadlines. We strongly encourage you to also check with the nearest US Embassy early to learn about current procedures, interview waiting lists, available times, and other important matters.
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I received my DS-2019, now what do I do?
Schedule an interview and appointment at the nearest US Embassy to apply for your visa. You will need to pay the SEVIS fee for your visa. Be sure that you have all the necessary materials prepared for your application and the information is complete. You need to fill in the dates of your exchange as stated by the International Programs office.
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