New Student Visa Documentation Process

Getting Your I-20 or DS-2019

International Student and Scholar Advising (ISSA) is responsible for the processing of visa eligibility documents and advising on immigration matters. ISSA works with students after they have been officially admitted to the University. 

F-1 (I-20) vs. J-1 Student (DS-2019)

Learn about the key differences between F-1 and J-1 immigration requirements. 

Transferring SEVIS Data from Another U.S. School

Transferring schools comes with legal and reporting requirements. 

Change of Visa Status

Changing visa status can be done from inside or outside of the U.S. 

Attending Penn State in non-F1 / J1 Visa Status

A Pennsylvania State University student who is not a U.S. citizen or U.S. permanent resident is classified as an international student. Not all international students are in F-1 or J-1 visa status. The information below provides general guidelines on which visa statuses allow study.

Spouse and Children

We are excited to welcome your family to campus! There are some requirements and resources we'd like you to be familiar with.

Health Insurance

It is mandatory for all international students in F-1 and J-1 status and for their accompanying spouse and children to have health insurance.