Step 5: Pay the SEVIS Fee

The Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) fee  is a fee paid to the U.S.
government to support the Department of Homeland Security’s Student and Exchange Visitor Program which manages SEVIS. The SEVIS fee must be paid at least 3 business days prior to applying for a visa stamp at a U.S. consulate of embassy.  Those exempt from the visa requirements (Citizens of Canada and Bermuda) must pay the SEVIS fee at least 3 business days prior to applying for admission at a U.S. port of entry.

ISSS recommends applicants apply and pay the fee online by credit or debit card; however, applicants can use alternative payment options such as Western Union.  More information can be found on the SEVIS I-901 fee processing website.  If you apply and pay online, print the confirmation receipt to present first at your visa appointment, and later at the U.S. port of entry.

NOTE: If paying by Western Union, please complete Form I-901 and receive a coupon before going to Western Union. Students will need the coupon to pay the fee at the Western Union office.

NOTE for students from Cameroon, Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria and The Gambia: Please be aware that the system is currently unable to accept SEVIS I-901 fee payments by credit card on behalf of students from the above listed countries.  Citizens of these countries who attempt to make a credit card payment will receive an error message. Students and Scholars from these countries will be required to use alternative payment options.

Complete the I-901 form and pay the fee*:

• F-1 Students: $350.00
• J-1 Students: $220.00 (fee may be less for a student whose J-1 program is sponsored by the U.S. government)

*Fees may be subject to change.