Before You Arrive
We understand that the process of going to college and moving to another country can be overwhelming for both students and family members. Your dedicated Admission Counselor will work closely with you as you work to secure your student visa after you’ve been admitted.
After You’re Accepted
Once you’ve received your admission decision:
- Submit your enrollment deposit to secure your seat.
- Upload to your MyBarry portal or email the required proof of finances: bank letter dated within six months, or an official sponsorship letter when applicable.
- If transferring from another U.S. institution, submit the Transfer Eligibility Form.
- Submit all health and immunization documentation to Student Health Services before registration or moving into campus housing.
- Submit your $75 housing deposit, if staying on campus.
How to Get Your Form I-20:
The Form I-20 is an essential document issued by Barry University that allows you to apply for an F-1 student visa and enter the United States to study. Here’s how to get yours:
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- First, you must be formally accepted into a degree program. Once admitted, you’ll receive an email with instructions on submitting your immigration documents.
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- U.S. immigration law requires proof that you can cover your tuition, fees, and living expenses for at least one academic year.
- You’ll need to submit a bank statement, affidavit of support, or scholarship letter showing available funding.
Helpful tips:
- You may submit a bank letter addressed to Barry University stating that you or your sponsor have the funds available to pay the total cost associated with attending Barry University for one year (Sample Bank Letter). The letter must be on bank letterhead. Funds must be liquid (for example, checking or savings), not time deposits or stocks. The required amount will be included in your admission letter if you are accepted. The letter must include the name of the person/account holder that is supporting the expense for attending Barry University and the name of the student.
- Government or institution-sponsored international students must submit a government sponsorship letter or a notarized letter of support guaranteeing payment of tuition and fees, books, room and board, medical insurance, and personal expenses for one academic year (two semesters).
- Financial Verification Forms
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- Upload a clear copy of the biographical page of your valid passport (the page with your name and photo).
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4. Complete the I-20 Request Form
- Fill out Barry’s I-20 Request Form, available through the International Student Services or Admissions portal.
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- Once all documents are verified, Barry University’s Designated School Official (DSO) will create your Form I 20 in the SEVIS system.
- You’ll receive your I-20 by email (electronic delivery is now accepted by U.S. embassies).
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- After you receive your I-20, pay the I-901 SEVIS Fee and schedule your visa appointment at a U.S. embassy or consulate.
Please be aware that acceptance to Barry University and I-20 issuance does not guarantee visa approval by the U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
Immigration Orientation and Check-in
International Student Services has designed an orientation program to prepare you to be a student at Barry and living in the U.S. You will also complete these two requirements as international students:
Immigration Check-in - an in-person session where students complete the check-in form and submit all their immigration documents for review. Students must finish the check-in process to be eligible for activation in SEVIS.
Check-in documents:
- F-1 International Student (Check-in) Information Form
- Maintaining F-1 Status
- Status Responsibility Checklist
- Copy of Passport
- Copy of Visa
- Copy of I-94
- Copy of I-20
Immigration Orientation - an in-person informational session to learn about F1 regulations and requirements. Students must attend the orientation to learn how to maintain F-1 status.
You will receive an invitation with details as this is held in-person a few days before classes start at the beginning of each semester (January and August).
Health Insurance
As an international student on an F‑1 or J‑1 visa, you are required to have health insurance coverage in the U.S. We make this simple for you: Barry offers a health insurance plan that provides nationwide coverage. The health insurance fee is automatically billed during registration if you meet the criteria, and you have the option to submit a waiver only if your U.S.‑based private plan meets all required standards.
You’ll find that having the student health insurance plan not only meets the requirement but also gives you access to health care on campus and beyond: the on‑campus Student Health Services offers primary care, telehealth services, and support for any medical needs throughout your time here.
Questions? Reach out to our Student Health Services team at healthservices@barry.edu or call Student Health Services at 305 899-3750.
Learn more { https://www.barry.edu/en/student-health-services/insurance-information-and-requirement/}
Immunizations
Getting your immunizations in order is a smart step to start your time at Barry University with confidence and peace of mind. All incoming international students (F‑1 / J‑1) must submit proof of key vaccinations — for example, two doses of MMR (Measles, Mumps & Rubella) or a blood test showing immunity, a Tdap (Tetanus / Diphtheria / Pertussis) vaccine within the past 10 years, and if you’ll live on campus, the meningitis ACWY shot after age 16. Some academic programs require specific vaccinations.
If you don’t yet have complete records, simply submit what you have through your Barry student health portal and work through the rest as soon as possible. Our Student Health Services team is here to help you interpret your international vaccine records (translations are okay) and get everything uploaded before orientation. That way you’ll be ready for classes and campus life without delay.
Questions? Reach out to our Student Health Services team at healthservices@barry.edu or call Student Health Services at 305 899-3750.