Visa Information - Abroad @ BU

The following information applies to all students (undergraduate and graduate) participating in Abroad @ BU Programs through their home institutions.

Step 1: Complete your application for your school’s Abroad @ BU Program.
When you submit your completed application, BU Global will have all necessary documentation to request your immigration paperwork. The Boston University  International Students and Scholars Office (ISSO) will process the request and generate a DS-2019 form on your behalf.

Step 2: Pick up your DS-2019 from your university’s study abroad office.
Boston University will send a DS-2019 to the study abroad office at your university. Your school will contact you when your DS-2019 has arrived.

Step 3: Make an appointment at the nearest U.S. Embassy.
You will apply for your J-1 student visa directly through the U.S. Embassy in your home country. The U.S. Embassy requires that you bring your DS-2019 form and your passport in order to process your visa application. The issue of a J-1 visa is subject to the approval of the U.S. government.

Step 4: Complete your mandatory check in when you arrive on campus.
If you receive a J-1 visa, you will be required to report to the International Students and Scholars Office (ISSO) at Boston University within two weeks of your arrival in the U.S.—this is a mandatory check-in required for you to be considered “in-status” with the U.S. Government.
Bring the following materials with you to the ISSO:

• DS-2019 form
• Passport
• Visa
• I-94 card

The ISSO is located at:

888 Commonwealth Avenue, 2nd Floor
Boston, MA 02215

If you have questions about obtaining your student visa, please contact us or the Study Abroad Office at your school.