Most of Cheshire Academy’s international students, who are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents of the United States, will be issued an F-1 (non-immigrant) student visa. If you are a citizen of Canada or Bermuda, you do not need a visa, but you will need to obtain a Form I-20. If you or your family has another type of visa, or if you are transferring from another U.S. school, please contact the International Student Coordinator for further information.

Cheshire Academy is approved by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP), administrated by Immigration and Customs Enforcement, to issue the Form I-20 which is the Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status. Please note that you must apply to, be admitted to, and agree to enroll at Cheshire Academy (including the submission of your enrollment agreement and appropriate deposit paid) before we may issue the Form I-20. After CA issues the Form I-20, you should schedule the “Initial Entry Visa Interview” with your local U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Please check with your U.S. Embassy or Consulate to determine their policies and procedures. You can check the U.S. Department of State website and select your city, then click the link for visa information. Wait times for student visa appointments at embassies and consulates worldwide can be found at www.Travel.State.Gov.

Visa interviews generally require the following documentation:

• Your Form I-20, Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status
• Your acceptance letter from Cheshire Academy
  SEVIS I-901 receipt
  Passport which must be valid for 6 months after entry into the US
• Transcripts or diplomas from current or previous institutions
• Program of study description
• Accommodation information
• Evidence of funds to cover tuition and living expenses for one academic year

Once you receive your F-1 visa, it might be time to pack your bags for Cheshire Academy! Keep in mind that you can enter the U.S. no more than 30 days before your program start date. Upon arrival at a United States Port of Entry you must present:

• Your form I-20, with signatures
• F-1Visa
• Passport
• I-94 Card

Your Form I-94 will be updated each time you arrive to or depart the U.S. and can be obtained by visiting the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website.

The International Student Union (ISU) is a group of students who work with the International Student Coordinator to organize trips and activities that highlight our diverse Global community.

In addition to celebrations throughout the year like the Moon Festival and Lunar New Year, the ISU hosts the International Awareness Community Weekend in February.  This three-day celebration includes lessons, music, dance, and cuisine representing the many cultures and traditions of our community. The highlight of the weekend is the International Food Festival with beverages and food from over twenty countries prepared by our students.

The International Student Union is also a space for students to engage in discussion about different events happening in the world to help educate our community.