Commonly Asked Questions about Visa Forms and Processing

Most students have questions about the forms as they are going through and filling them out. We have put this sheet together to hopefully answer some of the questions on line and save you time and effort in the beginning stages. One of the most important questions is listed at the bottom of the page, so take the time to read through them all.

If your question still isn't answered, contact your advisor, program sponsor or Immigration Office.

 

 Q: How many passport sized photos do I need to include? A: Although the 157Y states that you need to submit 4 photos, you are only required to have 3 photos (one on the passport, one on the Form 157Y, and one on the Form 160). You do not need to include any extra photos.
Q: In items #3 and #4 on the Form 157Y do I need to write my name in ethnic script? A: No, this is not applicable to students from an English speaking country. Cursive writing is not needed.
Q: In item #12 of Form 157Y what do I put for my Identification Number? A: Use your social security number
Q: In item #18 of Form 157Y, what do I put as my occupation? A: Student is acceptable in most cases
Q: Do I need to send in the actual X-Ray film? A: The only cases in which the X-ray film should be send in is if there is an abnormality detected in either the Medical Form 26 and/or the Radiological Report Form 160. There is no need to send it in otherwise
Q: Who should sign the Medical Form 26 and/or the Radiological Form 160? A: A Medical Doctor (MD) must sign across the top of your photo, at the bottom of the form, and across the flap sealing the envelope. If the forms are not signed by an MD, they will be returned to you and you may either be asked to undergo another exam or have the existing forms re-signed. Forms signed by a Doctor of Osteopathy will not be accepted at any time.
Q: Do I need a blood test for Hepatitis B or HIV (AIDS) as indicated on Form 26? A: No, in most cases. If a blood test is required you will be notified by a student visa officer. You may also be asked to undergo a test if your doctor indicates that you may have been at risk for exposure.
Q: Do I need a urinalysis as indicated on Form 26? A: Yes
 Q: Should I wait until I have completed all the components of my student visa application before I send it it? A: Yes, as sending in pieces at a time considerably slows the process.


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