Students coming for full-time study in the Communication Skills, Intensive Academic Preparation, and Integrated Skills courses need to obtain an F-1 student visa.
Along with your application, a financial statement showing sufficient resources to study in our program is required for F-1 visas.
ESI will then issue an I-20 form which you then take to a U.S. consulate or embassy in your country.
The $200 SEVIS fee (Student Exhchange and Visitor Program) needs to be paid before you go to the consulate or embassy.
English Studies Institute is not responsible for delays or denials in the processing of visas. In order to avoid problems, we urge you to apply as early as possible. (Students transferring from schools within the U.S. should submit a Transfer Verification Form.) When you enter the United States, you must have a valid passport, I-20 form, F-1 visa, and I-94 card (which you will get on the airplane). Bring all these documents to registration on the first day.
Due to the high cost of medical care in the U.S. and the even higher price of hospital costs in Berkeley (which can reach $2,000 - $3,000 per day), ESI requires that you purchase a health insurance policy before you come to Berkeley. You should buy a policy that covers all medical and hospital costs and provides a minimum of $50,000 for each accident or illness. Your insurance should have a deductible of $500 or less and cover at least 75% of hospital and physician costs. The insurance should cover you from the time you leave your country to the time that you return. Please bring a full description of your medical plan with you to Berkeley. ESI cannot enroll you if you do not have proof of health insurance.
Here are a few of many possible companies that offer health insurance for international students. Prices are subject to change. Look carefully at their websites for policies and exclusions. Students can sign up online.
Seven Corners. Progam: InboundGuest
Plan name: Gateway USA Plan A , or Plan B
Click on “International Students in US”
Plan name: Study USA - HealthCare
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