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titleNext steps to Study as an F-1 International Student



Who do I contact?

What are my next steps?

Additional Information


Proof of Financial Resources

international@uwf.edu



Request an I-20 

The first step is to submit a copy of your passport and proof of financial support for your study program.

When this is complete, you will receive your I-20 by email.

If you plan to transfer your I-20 to UWF, please review Steps to Transfer an I-20

We recommend that you complete this step as soon as possible so that you can schedule a visa appointment. 

If your plans change, please email international@uwf.edu with details.


Apply for your VISA


 international@uwf.edu

Schedule a Visa Appointment

There are several steps to apply for a visa. You need your I-20 to make the appointment.

Please consult the instructions on the embassy or consulate website for information for that location.

If the earliest visa appointment is too late for you to arrive on time:

Schedule the first available  appointment 

2. Follow the instructions to schedule an emergency visa appointment

You can find more information on the  website of your embassy or consulate

Four Steps to Help You Apply for a Visa 

Five Ways to Prepare for your Visa Interview

10 Points to Remember When Applying for a Student Visa This resource also has videos available through some US Embassy websites.


If you have a valid F-1 visa, you may use it to enter the United States.

F-1 Check-in

Check In Steps for F-1 Students

All new international students, including transfer students, must complete check in with UWF International Affairs.

Most of the check in steps can be done before you arrive in Pensacola.

After you complete check in, you will get a new I-20. 

This I-20 shows CONTINUED ATTENDANCE. This means that you are enrolled and studying at UWF.



Health Insurance

international@uwf.edu 

Maintaining Required Insurance as an F-1 or J-1 Student


You can enroll in a Pre-approved insurance plan by the UWF.

OR

You can Use your Own Insurance, as long as you complete a waiver form by the deadline.

After the posted waiver deadlines, :

  • alternative insurance WILL NOT be accepted.
 
  • Students will need to enroll in the IFS plan for UWF students. 

Resources to understand US Healthcare and Insurance

UWF Student Health Services Frequently Asked Questions

Local Urgent Care and Emergency Room Facilities

  • If you are experiencing an emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room (ER).
  • For non-emergency care, visit Student Health Services, an urgent care or doctor's office.

Overview of the US Healthcare System for International Students



Transfer your I-20 to UWF

international@uwf.edu 

Contact your current international student advisor. 

They need a copy of your admission letter to transfer your I-20 to the University of West Florida.

Transferring a Form I-20 to UWF 

This page has Transfer Instructions and the UWF SEVIS school code.

Email international@uwf.edu to inform the advising team that you will be transferring your I-20.

Arrive in Pensacola

international@uwf.edu 

If you arrive by plane, you can take a taxi, Uber or Lyft to your room.

UWF International Affairs is not able to provide airport pick up.



UWF Campus Map

If you are confirmed to live on campus, enter the building number or the name of your residence hall.

Google Maps 

If you are living off campus, be sure to have the correct street address.



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Who do I contact? 

What are my next steps?

Additional Information

Academic Advising

 &

Course Registration

Newly Admitted First-year Students

Newly Admitted Transfer Students

Newly Admitted Graduate Students

Academic Advising Information for Current Undergraduate Students

Intensive English Program Students:

Students in the Intensive English Program do not need to register for classes. You will get a class schedule on the first day of classes.

Click here for step-by-step instructions that will help students register for classes in MyUWF.  

We recommend that you register for classes as soon as possible. 

New freshmen students must attend Orientation prior to registration.


Here are some other useful links.

Searching for Course Offerings

Registering for Courses

Academic Dates and Deadlines 

  • Fee payment deadlines
  • Drop and withdrawal deadlines
  • Semester dates and holidays

Immunizations

healthservices@uwf.edu

UWF Student Health Services can assist you with questions about completing your immunization requirements.

Immunization FAQs 

Please upload your documents before you contact Health Services.

This allows the immunization team to review your details.


Housing

housing@uwf.edu 

Apply to Live on Campus

On campus housing is full for Fall 2022. 

Email housing@uwf.edu to be added to a wait list.

This does not guarantee you a room, and you should look for off campus housing.

Students with a room assignment can arrange a check in date with UWF Housing.


You must submit Immunization documentation through Student Health Services before checking in.

See your Off Campus Options

There are many options for students who prefer to stay off campus. 

Use the interactive map to locate rooms or apartments near campus.

Review the lease (contract) carefully before you sign. 

Many leases are for 12 months. 

Some of the housing closest to campus is rented by room. 

Public transportation is limited, so it is recommended to live near campus if you do not plan to have a car.

Temporary housing options

Hotels - Local Discounts

These local hotels may offer special rates for UWF. Ask for the UWF rate when booking.

Vacation Homes & Condo Rentals - Airbnb - Airbnb

Woodsprings Suites - extended stay

Be sure to check the location when making a reservation. 

Many of these locations are not near campus. Public transportation is limited. If you do not have a car, you should stay near campus.



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