Visa Requirements

All students who are not permanent residents, green card holders, or U.S. citizens must have a visa to study in the United States.  

Students may be eligible to study in the United States under a variety of visa categories. Indicate the type of visa you need when you apply, as processing takes time. The following list includes common valid visas, but do not represent all visa types that may permit enrollment.

• F-1:  Issued to international students attending an academic program or English language program at a U.S. college or university. 

• J-1:  Issued to participants in an approved program to teach, instruct, study, observe, conduct research, consult, demonstrate special skills, or receive training.

• A-2:  Issued to people traveling to the United States on behalf of a national government. 

Permanent residents, green card holders, and U.S. citizens are eligible for Gateway's academic programs. Tuition and fees are  the same regardless of residency.

Contact Gateway with any questions regarding your eligibility.

Note: An F-2 visa is not acceptable for enrollment.

After you sign your offer letter and pay your deposit, George Mason will issue you an I-20. It confirms your admission to an academic study program and that you have the financial resources to stay in the United States. This document allows you to apply for an F-1 student visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate. 

 I-20s will be received through the George Mason International Hub. An email will be sent to the student with sign-in information to retrieve your I-20. The confirmation packet will include such items as a copy of the confirmation letter and letter to the consular official, both on university letterhead. 

At least 3 business days before you schedule your visa interview, you must pay the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) I-901 fee in addition to the visa application fee. 

You will need:

• Your SEVIS ID number, found on the top of your I-20 or on the top right corner of your DS-2019 (the Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor (J-1) Status)

• George Mason F-1 School Code:  WAS214F00683000 

• George Mason J-1 School Code:  P-1-04835

If you are moving to George Mason from another U.S. school and have an F-1 visa, you must complete the  F-1 Student Transfer Eligibility form  at least 15 days before your program's start date.  Your current institution must complete Section 2.

We will need a copy of your I-20 and visa, confirming that you are in active standing and that your I-20 has not been terminated.

If you've completed your George Mason program and intend to earn a George Mason degree, you  must update your I-20. The  Office of International Programs and Services  (OIPS) can help with any questions.