Who Must Pay

New F-1 and J-1 students/scholars entering the U.S. for the first time must pay the SEVIS fee, as required by the U.S. Department of State and Homeland Security before visa issuance or approving any benefits of status. Payment should be made soon after receiving, printing and signing your BU immigration documents (I-20 or DS-2019) to allow time for processing. Returning students/scholars starting a new program must also pay the fee. Canadian citizens don’t need a visa but must pay the fee and show proof of payment when entering the U.S.

Who is Exempt

F-2 and J-2 dependents, students/scholars already in the U.S. renewing visas, or transferring schools/programs without a status break are exempt.

How to Pay

Payment can be made by the student, scholar, or a third party, but never at a U.S. Embassy, Consulate, or Port of Entry. Payment options are:

  • Online via Form I-901 with credit card (recommended for instant receipt)
  • Pay via Western Union Quick Pay
  • Mail application with check or money order in U.S dollars to the SEVP processing center. Check www.fmjfee.com for details

Print and keep the payment confirmation from www.fmjfee.com as proof.

Note: Students from Ghana, Nigeria, Cameroon, or Kenya must pay by check, money order, or Western Union due to processing issues.

Payment Details

  • Include your name exactly as on your I-20 or DS-2019, the SEVIS ID (top right of your form), and BU’s school code (F-1: BOS214F00056000, J-1: P-1-00576).
  • If accepted by multiple schools, pay only after selecting your enrollment school to avoid complications.
  • After payment, print the receipt for your visa appointment and travel.

Western Union Payment

Follow instructions on ICE’s website to pay at a local agent with the “Blue Form.” Retain the receipt as temporary proof until you get the official one.

Please refer to the Student and Exchange Visitor website for more information.

If you lack internet access, contact ISSO for a paper Form I-901. The SEVIS fee is non-refundable, but if your visa is denied, you don’t pay again if you reapply within 12 months. For questions, contact ISSO at issogac@bu.edu.