International Students Applying from Abroad

International Students Applying from Abroad

Applying from Abroad for International Students

Starting your education journey with Midwestern Career College from outside the U.S.? This page outlines the full admissions process for international students applying for a new F-1 visa. Learn how to submit your documents, prove financial eligibility, prepare for your visa interview, and receive your initial I-20 and Acceptance Letter. Follow each step to ensure a successful visa application and timely arrival in the U.S.

Non-U.S. citizens or residents who would like to study at a U.S. institution and are submitting an MCC application from abroad must complete the following steps:

1. Complete Midwestern Career College’s online Request for Information Form and pay the application fee.

Once we receive your submission, an admissions counselor will contact you to guide you through the next steps. During your admissions interview, your counselor will help you select the program that aligns with your academic goals and review all requirements to ensure a smooth admissions process.

2. Submit required documents.

  • Passport copy with all visa pages
    Your passport should be valid for at least six months at the time of application.
  • Provide proof of sufficient funds.
    • If you are paying your own tuition and fees:
      Submit an original bank statement issued of your application date. If the statement is from a foreign financial institution, it must be stamped, signed, and accompanied by a certified translation.
    • If you are financially supported by a US citizen or resident:
      Submit an Affidavit of Support (Form I-134) filled out and signed by the sponsor, along with their original most recent bank statement issued within 30 days of your application date.
    • If you are financially supported by someone outside of the US:
      Submit the support letter signed by your sponsor, and their original most recent bank statement issued within 30 days of your application date. All statements from a foreign financial institution must be stamped, signed, and accompanied by a certified translation.
  • Provide Proof of High School Graduation
    High School graduation is required for admission to all programs. Submit a copy of your high school diploma or HS transcripts with the graduation date listed, accompanied by the English translation.
  • Complete Foreign Address Verification
    Fill out the Foreign Address Verification Form with your Admissions Counselor.
  • Marriage and birth certificates for dependents
    If you are applying with dependents, additional documents may be requested by Admissions.

3. Take Online Entrance Exam.

After your admissions counselor reviews the documents you submitted, they will schedule you to take an online entrance exam.

4. Receive your Acceptance Letter and Initial I-20.

Once all admission requirements are met, you will receive an Acceptance Letter to Midwestern Career College and an initial I-20 (Certificate of Eligibility for F-1 Status).

  • Pay the SEVIS fee and any filing fees needed for your process.
  • Schedule your visa appointment at your nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate via usembassy.gov.
  • Notify your admissions counselor once your interview is scheduled.

5. Attend Your Visa Interview and Plan Your Arrival.

✓ Prepare for Your Visa Interview:
Bring the following to your appointment:

  • Passport
  • SEVIS payment receipt
  • Acceptance Letter
  • I-20
  • Financial statements

✓ Plan Your Travel:
Students on F-1 visas may enter the U.S. up to the program start date listed on the I-20. Confirm your arrival date with the college before purchasing your flight.

Congratulations on the start of your education journey with MCC!

Recent Updates and What You Need to Know

As you prepare for your upcoming F-1 visa interview, we want to share important updates and guidelines to help you navigate the current U.S. visa application process effectively.

The U.S. Department of State has introduced new screening guidelines for nonimmigrant visa applicants, including those applying for F-1 student visas. These changes are part of increased federal efforts to enhance visa security and may affect your interview process. Please take note of the following:

Screening Updates

  1. Social Media Privacy Settings

    All visa applicants are now instructed to set the privacy settings on all of their social media profiles to “public.” (open link) This allows consular officers to review your online presence as part of the visa application review.

  2. Increased Screening

    The Department of State is applying greater scrutiny to student visa applicants. Be prepared to answer questions about your academic plans, ties to your home country, and your intentions while in the U.S.

  3. Potential Travel Restrictions

    Some nationals from certain countries are currently subject to travel restrictions, and these policies may expand (open link). If you are from one of these countries, please be aware that visa processing may take longer or require additional documentation.

  4. Visa Interview Prioritization

    U.S. embassies are prioritizing visa interviews for specific groups, such as J-1 physicians and students applying to institutions where international students constitute a smaller portion of the student body. While this may affect appointment availability, we encourage you to continue scheduling your interview promptly.

How to Prepare

  1. Review Your Documents Carefully

    Ensure all your application materials, including your I-20 form, financial documents, and transcripts, are complete and accurate.

  2. Be Honest and Clear

    Answer all questions truthfully and succinctly during your interview.

  3. Update Social Media Profiles

    Set all social media accounts to “public” before your interview date, as required.

  4. Schedule Your Interview Early

    Visa appointment slots may be limited or prioritized differently. Make your appointment as soon as possible.

We understand this can be a stressful and uncertain time, and we are here to support you throughout the process. If you have any questions or need assistance, please do not hesitate to contact our office or your designated admissions counselors.

Thank you for choosing Midwestern Career College. We look forward to welcoming you on campus soon.

Reviewed by DSO Office, MCC International Department

Admissions Contact Info

Admissions

100 South Wacker Drive, LL 1-55
Chicago, IL 60606

312-236-9000 ext. 2
international@mccollege.edu

 

Business Hours:

Mon – Thu 9:00A.M. – 6:00 P.M.

Fri 9:00A.M. – 4:00 P.M.

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