Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is an F-1 Visa?
An F-1 Visa is a visa issued to students who wish to pursue full-time academic studies in the United States .
2. How do I obtain an F-1 Visa?
To be eligible for an F-1 Student Visa, a student must be enrolled in a minimum of 18 class hours per week. An I-20 Form is issued after enrollment procedures have been completed.
3. What is an I-20?
The I-20 is issued by the school and provides a certificate of eligibility for F-1 Students.
4. When can I start taking classes?
You can start class any Monday of the year!
5. How can I apply?
If you are in San Diego we recommend you come by our office so we can help you register for class. This may take about 30 minutes or less.
Office Hours: 8:30am-5:30pm Monday-Thursday 9am-4pm Friday
If you are outside of the US please refer to our “How to Apply” page and download the application. You can then follow the directions and mail, fax, or e-mail the documents to us. We are always available to answer any questions.
6. What should I bring with me when I come to register?
Bring your passport, visa, I-20, I-94 card, and method of payment.
7. How do I know in which level I will be?
On Thursday @ 2pm before the Monday you will start class, there is a placement test and an orientation.
The placement test takes 75 minutes and the orientation might take up to 45 minutes, depending on how many students are starting on that week.
8. I know little or no English. Do I have to take the placement test?
We would recommend you still do as much of the placement test that you can. This will help us in knowing how much you have improved.
9. When I will pay for my tuition and books?
Come prepared to pay for your tuition and books when you come for the placement test. Tuition is due every 4 weeks, and you will receive a calendar with your payments dates during the orientation.
10. How long it takes for a person to be able to communicate in English?
It depends on how much English that person knows when he/she gets here, and the level of difficulty he/she is capable of when learning the language. Each person has their own pace. Once you are placed in a class, you will stay there until you and your teacher feel it is time to move on to the next level.
11. How many students are in the SDUIS program and how many students are in each class?
There are usually about 200 students. The average class size is 15.
12. Can I study with a tourist visa?
Yes, but you will be able to take only 18 hours of classes per week.
13. How many countries are represented at SDUIS?
The yearly average is 40 different countries represented in the SDUIS.
14. Will I receive a certificate from SDUIS?
Yes. All students will receive a certificate when they finish their studies at SDUIS.
If your question was not answered here then please e-mail us and we will answer you promptly.
E-mail: iep@sduis.edu