Demonstrate Language Proficiency

Step 3

If you attended a High School where English was the language of instruction for at least two years, you do not need to further demonstrate language proficiency. If you are transferring from a college or university in the US and received a ‘C’ or better in English Composition, this requirement may also be waived.

If you did not attend a High School where English was the language of instruction for at least two years, you must submit ONE of the following to satisfy the language proficiency requirement:

• TOEFL score of 550 (paper based), 80 (internet), or 213 (computer)
• IELTS score of 6.5 or better
• SAT Evidence-Based Reading & Writing score of 1000 or better
• ACT combined score of 20 or better

How to Send Your Scores

You may send your official scores to Houghton directly from your school counselor or order a copy to be sent officially from the College Board or the TOEFL/IELTS website. Scores will also be accepted if they are listed by their school counselor on their official school transcript. Houghton's institution code is:

• SAT: 2299
• ACT: 2766

An admission decision cannot be made without proof of language proficiency or exemption.

Submit Official Documents

Step 4

All official transcripts should be sent. All international applicants must submit a credential evaluation report for high school and university transcripts that will translate your grades into US equivalencies. There is a fee for this process that can generally range from $85 to $250 (if you have transfer credit).

We highly recommend you use either InCred or WES for your credential evaluation. If you are planning on using another provider, they must be endorsed by either the Association of International Credential Evaluators, Inc. (AICE) or the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES).

What Evaluation Should You Order?

1. Document by document evaluation - students with only a high school transcript
2. Course by course evaluation - students with a high school transcript AND advanced-level work; advanced-level work could include A-levels, CXC's, CAPE exams, etc.
3. Course by course evaluation - students with college/university work completed outside of the United States.

Confirm Your Enrollment

Step 1

Confirm your enrollment and submit your deposit to Houghton. You may pay online if you have a U.S. bank account or via Flywire.

If not provided already, send a copy of your passport to your Enrollment Advisor.

Schedule an Appointment with Your Embassy

Step 3

Schedule an F-1 visa interview with the U.S. embassy or consulate. Wait times for interview appointments vary by location, season, and visa category, so you should apply for your visa early.

An F-1 student visa for the USA can be issued up to 120 days in advance of your course of study start date. You will only be able to enter the U.S. with an F-1 visa 30 days before your start date.

Pay SEVIS Fee

Step 4

Prior to your appointment, you will need to pay a $350 SEVIS fee. This is a fee charged by the U.S. government and is in no way associated with the college.

1. Log onto the SEVIS website.
2. You will be prompted to enter Houghton's school code number: BUF214F00070000
3. You will also be prompted to enter your SEVIS ID number. This can be found in the upper left section of your I-20 and begins with the letter “N”.

It is crucial that you are connected to a printer so that you can print a copy of the receipt.

This fee is valid for one year from the date you pay it. If you are not able to secure a VISA within one year of payment, you will, unfortunately, need to pay the fee a second time. While the process may vary by country, you will generally be required to complete a non-refundable VISA application fee. You will need to bring this completed form to your VISA interview.

Attend Embassy Appointment

Step 5

The F-1 VISA interview will determine whether you are qualified to receive an F-1 student VISA for the USA. If you have prepared the appropriate documents and meet all of the F-1 VISA requirements, your VISA will be approved at the discretion of the consular officer.

What To Bring To Your Interview

The following documents are (generally) required for your F-1 VISA interview:

1. A valid passport
2. The Nonimmigrant Visa Application, Form DS-160
3. The application fee payment receipt
4. A passport photo
5. Original Form I-20, signed
6. Acceptance letter
7. Financial Aid Award Letter
8. Receipt from the SEVIS fee
9. Copies of the bank statements you provided for the I-20.

Additional documents may be requested to prove your eligibility for the F-1 student VISA, including academic transcripts, diplomas, degrees, or certificates. Test scores such as the TOEFL, IELTS or SAT may also be requested, as well as proof of your intent to depart the U.S. after your program is complete. It is a good idea to check in with your embassy/consulate to see if more documents are required.

You may be required to pay a VISA issuance fee. Digital fingerprint scans may be taken for records. Also, your passport may be taken so that they can add your VISA. If so, you will be informed when you can get it back by pick-up or in the mail.

Keep in mind that visa issuance is not guaranteed. You should never make final travel plans until your VISA is approved. If your VISA is denied, you will be given a reason based on the section of law which applies to your ineligibility.

Book Travel to the United States

Step 6

Once you have obtained your VISA, your are free to book your flight arrangements.

• Shuttle service is available from Buffalo-Niagara International Airport (BUF).
• Please let your enrollment advisor know when your plans are finalized and schedule an airport pickup.