Moving to the U.S.

After receiving admission for graduate study at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, your journey to the U.S. will begin. Review and take notes on the pre-arrival information, post-admission checklist, and timeline below to get started on a smooth transition.

Your Date of Entry into the U.S.

You can enter the U.S. up to 30 days before the start date stated on your Form I-20 or DS-2019.

Post Admission Checklist

It's important to review the process before applying for a student visa. Each checkbox should only be a guide for obtaining a student visa. 

Note: The order of steps on the timeline below and how you complete them may vary by U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Please consult the instructions on the embassy or consulate website.

Port of Entry Information

Designated School Official (DSO):
Karen Cagley
Director, International Student and Scholar Office
402-472-0324 (business hours)
402-472-7211 (after hours)
kcagley2@unl.edu

Pay I-901 SEVIS Fee

This is the first step of your visa application process. You will need to keep your SEVIS fee receipt for future use. Find out how to pay the I-901 SEVIS fee.

Schedule the Interview

This is the second step of your visa application process. You should schedule an appointment for your visa interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in the country where you live. Learn how to schedule your interview travel.state.gov.

Prepare for the Interview

This is the third step of your visa application process.  You will need to bring your:

  • Passport
  • Nonimmigrant Visa Application
  • Application fee payment receipt
  • Photo (to upload)
  • Form I-20 or DS-2019
  • Proof of SEVIS fee payment

A full list of required and suggested documentation are available under Prepare for Your Interview. If you cannot find your SEVIS fee receipt, visit the Student and Exchange Visitor Program SEVIS I-901 fee processing website to request a copy of your receipt.

Receive Student Visa and Arrange Travel

After receiving a student visa, you will need to arrange travel to the U.S. Flying to Lincoln, Nebraska is possible through Lincoln Airport (LNK), which is 4 miles to City Campus. Another option is Eppley Airfield (OMA), which is approximately 65 miles from campus or about an hour drive. Ground transportation from LNK is available through car rental options at the airport. To get to campus from OMA, you can rent a car or schedule a shuttle to transport you directly to campus from the airport (prices will vary).

Prepare for Departure

This is the final step before arriving in the U.S. We recommend visiting EducationUSA for information on how best to prepare for your departure.

Currently in the U.S.?

If you're an international student currently in the U.S. who has received admission for graduate study at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, review the information below and complete tasks necessary for your arrival. 

Post-Admission Checklist

As an international student already in the U.S., you will not need to pay the SEVIS fee again. However, you will need to contact the DSO at your current institution to complete a transfer.

  • Transfer your SEVIS record
  • Review your immigration documents (DO NOT pay the SEVIS fee again)