Most Year Abroad participants will require a Student Visa.
For most visas, students are required to provide official documentary evidence of the following:
- acceptance into a university or college for exchange
- proof of sufficient funds to support your studies abroad (this figure will be provided by your host university)
- possession of a passport valid at least 6 months after the end of the course of study abroad
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The university or college will send the accepted student an immigration form (either an I-20 form for an F-1 visa OR an IAP-66 form for a J-1 visa). The determination of your type of visa is dictated by the university and is not a cause for concern. Keep all instructions sent from the host university. Your visa will allow you to attend ONE institution (it does NOT allow study at any institution in the USA).
Typically required documents:
- Form I-20 OR IAP-66 (from university/college)
- Form DS-156, Non-immigrant Visa Application
- Form DS-158
- Form DS-157 (male applicants only)
- Valid passport
- One (1) passport photos (see photo format requirements)
- Proof of acceptance to a US university/college
- Proof of funding available
- SEVIS fee payment - online Form I-901 ($100USD, as of Nov 2007)
- Application fee payment ($131, may be paid via credit/debit card at time of interview scheduling. Receipt must be taken to interview)
All applicants MUST attend an interview at either the US Embassy in London OR the US Consulate General in Belfast.
Helpful notes on student visa applications are available on the US Department of State website.
Total cost estimate: $231 USD (£167 GBP)
Canada (www.cic.gc.ca)
Students must obtain a Study Permit from the Canadian High Commission in London by requesting an application form IMM 1294. The form will be posted, along with instructions on how to complete it after you have your official acceptance letter from the Canadian university.
Please note there is a processing fee of $100 Canadian which you may be able to reclaim from your LEA. You will also need to provide evidence of funds. The Canadian High Commission’s contact details in London are: Tel: 01712 586309, Fax: 01712 586506
The Immigration Section
Canadian High Commission
Typically required documents:
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Form IMM 1294
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Valid passport
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Two (2) photos
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Proof of acceptance to a Canadian university
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Proof of funding available
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Fee payment ($100 CAN, as of Nov 2007)
Total cost estimate: $100 CAN (£57 GBP)
Australia (www.immi.gov.au/students)
Apply for a Non-Award Temporary Visa (Subclass 575 - Non-Award) Assessment Level 1. This can be done online, by post or by courier. Online application is recommended.
Helpful notes are provided at More Information for Students -- information about Assessment Levels, conditions, work permission, extending your stay, and a document check list for British citizens applying for the Non-Award visa.
Total cost estimate: $450 AUD (£213 GBP)
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New Zealand (immi.gov.au/students)
Students will need to apply for a Student Visa and are subject to meeting the conditions and health checks required by New Zealand immigration. Please visit their website for information about requirements, how to apply, and what to do after obtaining your student visa.
Total cost estimate: £75 GBP (or less)
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Students will need to apply for an FM 3 Non-Immigrant Student Visa. Please consult the Mexican Consulate in London (contact details below) to obtain requirements and application procedures.
This link can provide some information but please use only as a guide and verify with the Mexican Consulate. It is recommended to speak to someone in person rather than relying on web-based information for Mexican visas.
Mexican Consulate
