Enrollment timeline
From decision to departure: 10 steps, each with someone beside you
This is the complete process an international student goes through to enrol at A-State — with the fees, documents and timing for every step. Our admissions team stays with you from step 1 to step 10.
- 1
Step 1 · 9–12 months out
Choose your pathway and major
A free one-on-one session to decide: direct entry or ELA, undergraduate or graduate, and which of the 150+ programs. You get a cost and scholarship estimate in the same meeting.
- 2
Step 2 · 6–9 months out
Submit the online application
A-State’s online form, certified transcript translations, an English score (if you have one), passport and the $50 fee. The office reviews everything before submission.
- 3
Step 3 · 2–4 weeks after applying
Receive your admission letter
Full or conditional admission (with ELA). The $3,000-per-year international scholarship is announced at the same time if you meet the 3.25 GPA threshold.
- 4
Step 4
Pay the $350 enrollment deposit
The international deposit confirms your place and is credited to your first-semester tuition. Paid through the university’s international payment gateway — the office guides you through it.
- 5
Step 5
Submit proof of funds, receive your I-20
The university needs a passport copy and financial documents (savings book or bank balance letter) covering one year of cost to issue the I-20 — the document required for an F-1 visa. The required amount follows the current academic year; the office confirms the figure.
- 6
Step 6
Pay the SEVIS fee
With your I-20 in hand, pay the SEVIS I-901 fee at the rate currently set by the US government at fmjfee.com and keep the receipt for your interview.
- 7
Step 7 · 3–4 months out
DS-160 and F-1 visa interview
Complete the DS-160, pay the visa fee and book an interview at the US embassy or consulate that serves your country. The office runs mock interviews with you and assembles your document pack.
- 8
Step 8 · 1–2 months out
Reserve housing and health insurance
Apply for housing with the $100 deposit (double rooms from $2,730 per semester) and choose a meal plan. The university’s mandatory health insurance, about $1,100 per year, is billed with tuition.
- 9
Step 9 · 2–3 weeks out
Fly to Memphis (MEM)
The nearest airport is Memphis International, about 80 miles (1.5 hours) from campus. The university runs a start-of-term shuttle — sign up in advance with the international office. Halls open on Aug 15, 2026 for fall.
- 10
Step 10 · First week
Orientation and registration
International orientation: visa check-in, opening a bank account, health screening, course registration with your academic advisor, and meeting the international student community at A-State.
$
Fees along the way
| Item | Amount | When |
|---|---|---|
| Application fee | $50 | Step 2 |
| International enrollment deposit | $350 (credited to tuition) | Step 4 |
| SEVIS I-901 fee | Current government rate | Step 6 |
| Visa (MRV) fee | Current government rate | Step 7 |
| Housing deposit | $100 | Step 8 |
| Health screening on arrival | $280 | Step 10 |
University charges are checked against astate.edu for 2026–27. The SEVIS and visa fees are set by the US government and may change — the office confirms the current amounts when you reach that step.
Source: astate.edu — Tuition & Fees (International) · astate.edu — University Housing Rates 2026–27 (PDF) · Updated Aug 22, 2026
Document pack for the visa interview
- Passport valid for at least six months
- Signed I-20, admission letter, SEVIS receipt
- DS-160 confirmation and interview appointment
- Proof of funds: savings book, bank balance letter, sponsor income documents
- Transcripts, diploma, English score
- Study plan and reasons for choosing A-State (prepared with the office)
Deadlines
Next three intakes
Fall 2026
Jun 1, 2026
Classes begin mid-August 2026
Spring 2027
Nov 1, 2026
Classes begin January 2027
Summer 2027
Mar 2, 2027
Classes begin May–June 2027
Timeline FAQ
How long does the whole process take?
Started on time, about 6–9 months from application to departure. Urgent cases can be compressed to 3–4 months, but this depends on visa interview availability.
What is the I-20 and how long does it take?
The I-20 is the certificate of eligibility issued by the university, required to pay the SEVIS fee and apply for an F-1 visa. Once your passport and financial documents are in, the university usually issues it within 1–2 weeks.
What if my visa is refused?
You can reapply. The office reviews the likely reasons with you, strengthens your documents and repeats interview practice before the next appointment. Your admission and I-20 can be deferred to the next intake.
Can I arrive before the halls open?
An F-1 visa allows entry up to 30 days before the start date on your I-20. Halls open on Aug 15, 2026; if you arrive earlier you need temporary accommodation — the office can suggest options.
Can my parents travel with me?
Yes. Parents apply separately for a B-2 visitor visa and can accompany you during orientation week. Many families do this to see the housing and campus for themselves.
Ready to study in the USA at A-State?
Book a free 1-on-1 session with our admissions team — pathway, scholarships, documents and visa in one meeting.