The information included in this section is intended only for members of the international community at The University of Findlay. This information is subject to change any time. For the latest information about immigration rules and procedures, please call the Office of International Admissions & Services at 419-434-4558, or visit the office and meet with the Assistant Director of Immigration. Each individual's situation is different, and the best way to obtain complete and accurate information is to speak with a representative at the office.
Introduction
All students and scholars who are in the U.S. on non-immigrant visas are subject to a complex and changing set of regulations mandated by the U.S. government. A major role of the Office of International Admissions & Services is to provide advice about these regulations and assist students in obtaining the benefits that are legally permitted.
The following section provides a summary of the immigration regulations. The information contained in this section includes some of the basic terminology and regulations which all students and scholars should know while studying in the U.S. Because immigration law is subject to change often, and because each student or scholar has a unique set of circumstances, you should always consult the staff of the Office of International Admissions & Services for the latest information.
Important Terms and Forms
Passport - Issued by the government of your country. Your passport must be valid at all times during your stay in the U.S. The passport can be renewed in the U.S.
U.S. Visa - Stamped in your passport by the U.S. Embassy and allows you to apply for entry to the U.S. The visa can only be renewed from your home country.
Immigration Status - This refers to your visa category, such as F-1, F-2, J-1, J-2, B-2, H-1B etc.
I-94 Card - The small card which you received upon entering the U.S. Also known as Arrival/Departure Record. The I-94 card shows how long you are authorized to stay in the U.S. and includes your admission number.
I-20 Form - Students present this form to receive F-1 status. The expiration date in item #5 is the expected date of completion for your academic program. Each F-1 student must retain his/her I-20 form to establish legal status in the U.S. If the I-20 expires, the student could have their visa revoked.
DS-2019 Form - Students and scholars present this form to receive J-1 status. The DS-2019 form shows the authorized program participation dates and a description of the exchange program.
United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) - The U.S. government agency which enforces U.S. immigration laws.
Passport Verification - The Office of International Admissions & Services is required by law to maintain records for each non-immigrant student at The University of Findlay. All international students must participate in passport verification prior to their initial enrollment (this is typically done during International Student Orientation). To complete passport verification, the student brings his or her immigration documents to be verified by an Office of International Admissions & Services staff member.
