Step 2: Pay the SEVIS Fee
The Student and Exchange Visitor Information System, more commonly known as SEVIS, is a central computerized system that maintains and manages data about foreign students, exchange visitors and their dependents during their stay in the United States.
Since August 2003, all institutions in the United States that host foreign students and exchange visitors have been required by U.S. law to use SEVIS to maintain data about all F, J and M visa holders at their institutions.
What is the SEVIS Fee?
The SEVIS fee, implemented in October 2004 by the Department of Homeland Security, is used to cover the costs of operating the SEVIS program. The SEVIS fee is a separate fee in addition to any other visa application/processing fees.
Individuals will need to provide evidence that the SEVIS fee has been paid at the time of their visa interview.
We recommend paying the fee online at least 3 business days prior to entering the U.S. in F or J status.
Canadian Citizens: Although Canadian citizens are not required to apply for an F or J visa stamp at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate outside of the United States, all Canadian citizens must still pay the appropriate SEVIS fee. Canadian citizens will need to provide evidence that the SEVIS fee has been paid as they apply for F or J visa status at the U.S. Port-of-Entry.What are the SEVIS Fee Payment Options?
For information on SEVIS Payment Options, please see SEVIS Fee Payment Options.
Please note that this fee CANNOT be paid until you have received your Certificate of Eligibility (Form I-20 or Form DS-2019) from Brandeis University.
Please make sure that your name on your SEVIS fee payment matches the name as it appears on your Form I-20 or Form DS-2019. This name should also match your passport.
Continue to Step 3: Schedule & Prepare for your Visa Interview