A. SEVP is the larger student exchange program; the re-engineered
nom-immigrant student and exchange visitor (F, M, & J visa
categories) process, converting what is currently a manual procedure
into an automated one.
B. SEVIS is an Internet-based system that maintains accurate
and current information on non-immigrant students (F & M visa),
exchange visitors (J visa) and their dependents (F-2, M-2, and
J-2). SEVIS enables schools and program sponsors to transmit electronic
information and event notifications via the Internet, to the INS
and Department of State (DOS) throughout a student or exchange
visitor's stay in the United States. This system will modernize
information collection and improve data processing by:
- Reducing data latency
- Eliminating duplication
- Minimizing data entry errors
- Minimizing fraud
- Providing information/data sharing
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Q. How many classes do I need to take per semester
in order to maintain my student status (F-1)?
If you are an undergraduate student, you must take a minimum
of 12 credits per semester. If you are a graduate student,
you must take a minimum of 9 credits per semester.
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Q. What document do I need to obtain a Social
Security Card?
To obtain a US social security card, you will need to present
the Social Security officer your passport, I-20 form, Barry ID
card, and letter of introduction from ICC.
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Q. When will I use my Social Security Card?
You will need a Social Security number for applying for a Credit
Card, obtaining a telephone line in your name, applying for a
job, etc.
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Q. Can I work?
Yes, but only on campus. Please visit ICC for further information.
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Q. I didn’t receive an I-20 before leaving
the country and entered the US under a B1/B2 visa. I have been
accepted to Barry University. Can I register for classes?
A B1/B2 visa is considered a tourist visa, meaning that you
need to change your status from B1/B2 to F-1 (student), take your
I-20 back to your home country, and obtain a visa.
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Q. What do I need to do before traveling outside
of the US?
Make sure you visa and passport are valid. In addition, you I-20
needs to be signed by the Designated School Official (DSO). Failure
to do so will prevent you from re-entering the US Also, check
the host country you are going to and find out if a visa is required.
You can find this information through the embassy, consulate,
or travel agency.
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Q. How do I obtain a driver's license?
http://www.hsmv.state.fl.us
contains useful for information on how to obtain a driver's
license.
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Q. What is my credit history? How do I obtain
this?
Credit history checks your ability to pay your bills on time.
When you make a large purchase, such as a car or a home, the credit
bureau will have some background information on how you are paying
debts. In order to obtain this, you need to apply for a credit
card, or any other form of information that allows you to pay
monthly fees.
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Q. I want to stay in the US after graduation.
Is that possible?
ICC will be happy to assist you in seeking legal advice on how
to remain in the US once you’re done with school. Also, remember
to attend our senior seminar, where more information will be provided
on the options for remaining in the US
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Q. Do I need to pay taxes as an international
student?
If you have worked in the US, then you may need to file for
taxes with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Look for ICC’s
tax seminar during the month of March.
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Q. What are immigration seminars and how often
do they happen?
Once a month we invite a lawyer to speak about topics such as
maintaining status, OPT, H1B1, and permanent residency. Complimentary
individual consultation is available after the seminars.
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