Denver College of Nursing (DCN) welcomes students from diverse backgrounds, including international applicants seeking to study nursing in the United States. However, as an institution, DCN has specific visa and immigration policies that prospective international students should be aware of. Here is a detailed guide to the visa requirements and support available for international students:

1. Student Visa Requirements:

• F-1 Student Visa:
  • International students who wish to study at Denver College of Nursing generally require an F-1 Student Visa to enter the United States. The F-1 visa allows international students to pursue full-time academic study in an accredited program.
  • DCN provides guidance on the documentation and steps needed to apply for the F-1 visa. However, it is essential that international applicants meet all the requirements of both the U.S. government and the college before an I-20 form can be issued.

2. Steps to Apply for an F-1 Visa:

• Admission to DCN:

  • The first step for international students is to be admitted to one of DCN’s nursing programs. Applicants must meet all academic requirements and be accepted into a full-time program.

• Issuance of Form I-20:

  • After being accepted, DCN will provide eligible international students with a Form I-20, a certificate of eligibility for non-immigrant student status. The I-20 is used to apply for the F-1 visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate in the student's home country.

• SEVIS Fee Payment:

  • Once the I-20 form is received, students must pay the SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) fee. This fee is necessary to enroll the student in the U.S. government's tracking system for international students.

• Visa Interview at U.S. Embassy/Consulate:

  • Students must schedule and attend a visa interview at the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. During the interview, students must provide the following documents:
    • Valid passport
    • Form I-20 issued by DCN
    • SEVIS fee payment receipt
    • Completed Form DS-160 (Non-immigrant Visa Application)
    • Proof of financial support to cover tuition, fees, and living expenses
    • Admission letter from DCN

3. Financial Proof and Sponsorship:

• Proof of Financial Capability:

  • To obtain an F-1 visa, students must demonstrate that they have sufficient funds to cover their tuition, fees, and living expenses for the duration of their studies at DCN.
  • This may include bank statements, affidavits of support, scholarship award letters, or financial guarantee letters from sponsors.

• Sponsor Information:

  • If a family member or other individual is sponsoring the student, the sponsor must provide documentation showing their ability to financially support the student throughout the course of study.

4. Maintaining F-1 Visa Status:

• Full-Time Enrollment:

  • F-1 visa holders must maintain full-time enrollment in their nursing program at DCN. This means taking the required number of credits per semester to be considered a full-time student.

• SEVIS Reporting:

  • Students are required to keep their SEVIS record up-to-date. This includes reporting any changes to their address, program of study, or other personal information to the designated school official (DSO) at DCN.

• Travel Outside the U.S.:

  • International students planning to travel outside the U.S. during their studies must have their Form I-20 signed by the DSO for re-entry. They must also ensure that their visa is valid for re-entry into the U.S.

5. Employment Regulations for F-1 Students:

• On-Campus Employment:

  • F-1 visa holders are eligible to work on-campus at DCN, but they are limited to 20 hours per week while school is in session. On-campus employment may include working in administrative offices or assisting faculty.

• Curricular Practical Training (CPT):

  • F-1 students may be eligible for Curricular Practical Training (CPT) if it is required as part of their nursing curriculum. CPT allows students to gain practical work experience in their field of study.

• Optional Practical Training (OPT):

  • Optional Practical Training (OPT) is available to F-1 students once they complete their nursing program. OPT allows international students to work for up to 12 months in a role directly related to their field of study, which provides valuable work experience.

6. Assistance and Support from DCN:

• Designated School Official (DSO):

  • DCN has designated school officials who provide guidance and support to international students. The DSO assists with visa-related matters, SEVIS registration, and other immigration compliance requirements.

• Pre-Arrival Support:

  • DCN offers pre-arrival support to help international students understand the visa process, required documentation, and what to expect during their visa interview. This support ensures that students are adequately prepared for their transition to the U.S.

• Orientation for International Students:

  • Upon arrival, international students are required to attend a new student orientation. This orientation covers important topics such as maintaining visa status, campus resources, academic expectations, and cultural adjustment.

7. Housing and Health Insurance:

• Housing Assistance:

  • DCN does not provide on-campus housing; however, the college offers support to international students by helping them find suitable off-campus accommodation in the Denver area.

• Health Insurance Requirement:

  • International students are required to have health insurance that meets U.S. standards. DCN provides information on selecting an appropriate health insurance plan, ensuring students have adequate coverage during their stay.

8. Important Considerations:

• Visa Application Timing:

  • It is important to apply for a visa as early as possible once an I-20 is issued. Visa processing times can vary, so early preparation helps avoid delays.

• Visa Denials and Appeals:

  • In the event of a visa denial, students are encouraged to contact the DSO at DCN for advice on addressing the reasons for denial and reapplying.

• Dependents:

  • F-1 students may bring dependents (spouse and children) on an F-2 visa. However, F-2 dependents are not allowed to work or enroll in full-time academic programs.

Useful Resources:

• SEVIS I-901 Fee Payment: https://fmjfee.com/
• U.S. Department of State – Visa Information: https://travel.state.gov/
• DCN International Admissions: For the most up-to-date information, international students can contact the DCN admissions office directly or visit Denver College of Nursing for detailed admission requirements.

Note: Visa regulations are subject to change, and it is crucial for prospective international students to stay informed by consulting the U.S. embassy or consulate and DCN’s admissions office for the latest updates.