Here are a few additional steps for admitted and deposited students before joining Merrimack as an international student.
The most typical visa for Merrimack students is an F-1 Visa. If you will need to apply for an F-1 Visa to attend Merrimack, you will first need Form I-20 from the International Student Support office. After receiving your I-20, you will then need to schedule an appointment with the U.S. embassy or consulate in your country.
Step 1. Complete your I-20 requirements
In addition to your enrollment deposit, you must submit the following items before an I-20 can be issued:
- copy of your passport
- official, notarized financial documentation. Notarized financial documentation can come from family sources, international scholarship agencies or government sponsors, and should certify that funds are available to meet costs for one academic year of study.
- Declaration of finances form.
To transfer your SEVIS record from a U.S. school to Merrimack College:
- please notify your current school of the intent to transfer
- submit a Merrimack College SEVIS Transfer Form.
Upon notification, your current school will update your record in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) as a “transfer out” with a release date. After the release date, Merrimack College will complete the transfer of your record in SEVIS and issue a new I-20.
Step 2. We’ll send you your Certificate of Eligibility (I-20)
You will need this to obtain an F-1 student visa.
Step 3. Make an appointment with the nearest U.S. Consulate or Embassy referencing the number on your I-20
Note: Canadian citizens do not need visas to study in the U.S. However, Canadian students do need to obtain an I-20.
Step 4. Pay SEVIS fee
Pay I-901 SEVIS fee. Be sure to keep a copy of your receipt. Canadian citizens will also need to pay the I-901 SEVIS fee and show their receipt when entering the US.
Step 5. Connect with International Student Support (ISS) Office
The ISS team is here to support you with any questions or concerns you have about being an F-1 international student at Merrimack College. When we email your I-20, we will also provide you with helpful pre-arrival information including next steps in the visa process, what to pack, travel information, housing considerations, and more.
Questions?
Admission Questions:
[email protected]
978-837-5196
Arrival and Orientation Questions:
Office of International
Student Support
978-837-5239
[email protected]
