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Program Visa requirements

Full-time international students must enter the United States (U.S.) on an F-1 student visa. (Full-time study at NICE = 20 hours or more per week). The University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa is authorized under U.S. Federal Law to enroll non-immigrant alien students. Persons in the U.S. on a tourist visa (B-2) or the visa waiver Wavier/Tourist (W.T.) ESTA Program participants are not permitted to study in a 10-week session on a full-time basis.

SEVIS Payment
After receiving the Form I-20 from NICE and being issued a student visa, new students must pay a SEVIS processing fee (I-901 fee) of USD 350. The payment must be made online with a credit card.

Personal Interview
After receiving the I-20 and making the SEVIS payment, each student must make an appointment for a personal interview at the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Students should be prepared to explain their study plans and show evidence of the intention to return home upon completing the program. If approved, the F-1 visa is issued.

For more information on visa issuance, please consult the USCIS website.

Additional requirements upon arrival
All new students must come to the NICE office before beginning the study term to complete the final registration. Students will need to bring the following:

  • Passport & I-20
    The NICE office will make a photo-copy of your passport and visa and I-20 Certificate of Eligibility form.
  • Proof of Medical Insurance
    Students without medical insurance will not be allowed to attend classes.

    Medical insurance should be purchased in the student’s native country, if possible. 

Students who do not purchase medical insurance in their home countries may also buy medical insurance online with the following private providers: