Prospective Students

FAQs

How do I get my immigration documents?
What is required for proof of financial support?
What is the amount of financial support that I must show?
What is the climate/weather like in West Chester, PA?
What do I need to bring with me to WCU?

How do I get my immigration documents? Back to Questions

Students must have received a formal admission letter to West Chester University before any immigration document will be issued. Once a formal offer of admission is received, it is necessary to pay the acceptance fee as outlined in the acceptance letter. Upon the paying the acceptance fee, please submit the Certificate of Eligibility to the Center for International Programs.

All I–20s are mailed Foreign Air Mail and takes on average 7–10 days to reach you. We do not Fed EX or express mail any I–20s. We will email your SEVIS number to you once your I–20 has been issued. This number will allow you to make a visa appointment at the US Embassy.

What is required for proof of financial support? Back to Questions

Proof of financial support must be a financial statement or letter from your financial institution. The statement must have your name or the name of your sponsor. If you have a sponsor, a letter from his/her employer is required that must include the sponsor’s annual income and length of employment. It must be a current statement that shows evidence of funding to cover the estimated annual education expenses.

Note: If a student is being sponsored by a US citizen or legal permanent resident financial guarantee materials must be accompanied by a notarized form I–34 Affidavit of Support

What is the amount of financial support that I must show? Back to Questions

The amount of financial support varies each year depending on the tuition costs. Tuition is set each year in July for the following academic year. For the 2009–2010 academic year, the estimated expenses posted on your I–20 and for which you must show support, is as follows

2009-2010	Graduate	Undergraduate
Tuition and Fees	$12,300	$15,646
Living Expenses	$9,600	$10,000
Health Insurance	$1,000	$1,000

Total	$22,900	$26,649

What is the climate/weather like in West Chester, PA? Back to Questions

West Chester University is located in West Chester, Pennsylvania which is 25 miles (40 kilometers) west of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and 17 miles (27 kilometers) north of Wilmington, Delaware. Most international students arrive in the United States through the International airports at either New York City or Philadelphia.

West Chester is a town with a population of about 20,000 and is part of the rapidly growing suburban complex surrounding Philadelphia. The climate is considered moderate with low temperatures in winter ranging from 0 degrees Fahrenheit (–17C) to summer high temperatures around 90 degrees F (32C). Students will need an assortment of clothing to accommodate these differing seasons and there are many stores where items may be purchased.

What do I need to bring with me to WCU? Back to Questions

What to bring to West Chester depends on two major factors, your personal needs and the cost and convenience of bringing the item with you. Bulky items like a pillow can be purchased in the United States saving valuable room for other items. Heavy items such as reference books can be shipped separately or may be available through other sources. You should evaluate what to bring based on your needs. The check list that follows is not intended to be inclusive, but a general guide of items to bring. Be sure to include personal items, such as your favorite pictures, music, etc. that will make you feel closer to home.

Clothes: Dress is usually casual, although you may wish to include one formal outfit and an outfit which reflects your national heritage. If you will be in the country for a full year, keep in mind the seasonal changes and activities such as sports.

Medicines: Check with your physician before leaving your country. There are differences in medication and the availability of certain items.

Documents: Be sure to bring any necessary documents, such as Visas, I-20, transcript of courses and correspondence.

Address Book: Bring the names and addresses of people you want to correspond with while you are in the United States. Also the names and addresses of people you want to see while in this country.

Personal Items: If you have a favorite music tape or an item which makes you feel closer to home, be sure to bring it with you. Don't forget grooming or make-up items that may not be found in the United States.

Driver’s License: If you anticipate driving while in the United States, you may wish to obtain an International Driver's License which is available from you home country.

You are considered an international applicant if you need a visa in order to reside and study in the United States. If you are a U.S. citizen, permanent resident, refugee or asylee, you will be considered a domestic applicant even if you currently reside outside the U.S.