A Guide to Applying for an English as a Second Language School

Learning English as a second language is a great step towards building a career, especially if you plan on working for a large multinational company or frequently travel abroad. One of the best ways to learn English is to attend a qualified ESL school with fast track programs. Here, you can learn the language while being immersed in the culture and live around English speakers. In order to attend one of these schools, you must first go through the application process and in many cases, obtain a visa. The following is a guide to help you on your journey to learning English.

Where Do I Start?
The first thing you will want to do is simply fill out an application to the program you wish to be enrolled in. Whether you are from out-of-state, in-state, domestic, or an F-1 international student, your application will likely be accepted. Even non-immigrant alien students are able to enroll under Federal law. If you are an international student, once you are accepted, the next step you will need to take is to obtain an F-1 student visa or change your current visa status to F-1.
What Is an F-1 Visa?
An F-1 visa is a certain type of visa for non-immigrant students who wish to pursue their education in the United States. In order to keep the visa, students need to stay in school full time.
How Do I Obtain an F-1 Visa?
In order to obtain an F-1 visa, students must go to the Designated School Official and get Form I-20 as well as pay the I-901 SEVIS receipt. Once this is done, you will be added and given an ID number in the SEVIS database.
The next step in the process is having an “Initial Entry Visa Interview.” This will take place at your local U.S. Embassy or Consulate. At this interview, they will go over the policies and procedures with you. For the interview, you want to make sure you have all of the proper documents. Some of these include:

• Form I-20
• SEVIS I-901 receipt
• Transcripts and diplomas
• Passport
• Description of the study program
• Information for accommodations and evidence of funds
• Other forms that the local U.S. Embassy or Consulate requires

Once you are given the visa, you can then notify your English as a second language school as to when you will be arriving. If the date has been deferred for some reason, you will need to get a new I-20 form.
How and When Can I Arrive in the States?
With an F-1 visa, you are only allowed to arrive in the U.S. within 30 days of the start of your program. Once you have reached the port of entry, you will need to present the following documents:

• Form I-20 (with your school’s DSO’s signature)
• Form I-94
• Valid visa with SEVIS ID number and school name
• Documentation of finances
• Passport

It is important that you keep the I-94 form safe because it is proof that you have entered the United States legally.
Once you have gone through the whole application process, been accepted to the school of your choice, and obtained a valid F-1 visa, you will be all ready to begin your journey to learning English as a second language.