Who is an International Student or Scholar?

All persons who are not U.S. citizens or nationals who wish to come to the United States for a specific, limited activity are considered non-immigrant aliens and require a visa to enter the country. There are several categories of non-immigrant aliens, each with special benefits and requirements. 

The Office of International Programs provides services for non-immigrant aliens, e.g., the issuance of an I-20 or DS-2019, employment authorization, change of status, and reinstatement.

The visa categories which relate to university studies are explained in more detail below:

F-1 International Student Status:
All non-immigrant aliens who seek to achieve a specific educational or professional objective, such as a degree, through a full course of study require an F-1 Student Visa. F-1 students require an I-20 to enter and remain in the United States. They are funded by personal or family funds. More »
   
J-1 Exchange Visitor Status:
All non-immigrant aliens that have been selected by an exchange visitor program sponsor require a J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa. J-1 students & scholars require a DS-2019 to enter and remain in the United States. They are funded by an international organization, government, or university.  More »

H-1B Temporary Worker Status:  (Our Office Does Not Process This Visa)
All non-immigrant aliens who have an offer of employment from Seton Hall University to perform services in a specialty occupation to which they are fully qualified require an H-1B Temporary Worker Visa.

Other Statuses:
Non-immigrant aliens already in the United States may apply for a Change of Status authorized by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

Instructions for a Change of Status can be found here. 

B-1, B-2, & F-2
B-1, B-2, F-2 Visa Holders Waiver Form

Additional Resources