Do you want to Study in the U.S.?
UMPI is the place for you! Crossing the ocean to go to school is a big decision. Let us SHOW you why UMPI is the right place for you to begin your college journey. Come to campus for a visit or let the Admissions Office put you in contact with our current international students. Opportunities are abundant here at UMPI no matter where you call home.
How to Apply
Accepted! What’s Next?
Before leaving for the U.S. border
Submit Affidavit of Support
The Affidavit of Support Form verifies your willingness to financially commit to attending the University of Maine at Presque Isle and requires evidence that you have funding available to the meet the total expenses of one academic year. The Affidavit of Support is included in your acceptance packet and is also available here–select the Affidavit of Support for Canadian students or the Affidavit of Support for International students. This form will be used to issue the student’s Form I-20. Form I-20’s are mailed out 90 days before the start of school. Please return this form by faxing to Jessica Winslow at 207-768-9777.
Your Form I-20:
This official U.S. Government document is your Certificate of Eligibility for Non-immigrant Student Status that enables you to apply for an F-1 student visa and entry into the United States. Upon receipt please contact jessica.b.winslow@maine.edu by email to confirm that you received this Form I-20.
Look it over to make sure the information is correct. If there is an error, contact the Admissions Office right away. Do not sign the form at this time. When you go to the U.S. Embassy or U.S. Consulate, an Immigration Official will want to witness you signing the Form I-20.
The U.S. Congress passed a law requiring international students to pay a fee to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security before a student visa is processed. The purpose of the SEVIS I-901 fee is to cover costs of administering and maintaining SEVIS, the tracking database that ensures visa compliance. The cost of this fee is $200 US for F-1 students (this fee is subject to change). This is a one-time fee, as long as you keep your student visa current during your studies at the University of Maine at Presque Isle.
For Canadian students Crossing the Canadian & U.S. Border
(all other International Students see below)
Pay SEVIS Fee:
Prior to going to the U.S./Canadian border, you must complete Form I-901 to pay the required SEVIS fee. This form is available online at: http://www.ice.gov/sevis/i901.
Read the instructions contained on this webpage and click on “Proceed to I-901 form and payment.” Then click on “I-20” and “OK”. Complete the form, pay by credit or debit card and print a receipt. Completing the form online will help ensure that you provide all the information in the correct format.
Be sure to print and retain a copy of your receipt to take with you to the U.S. Embassy or U.S. Consulate. Having the printed receipt will speed up the verification process and allow processing of the I-20. For additional information on the SEVIS I-901 fee payment and filing process, access the SEVP web site at http://www.ice.gov/sevis/i901. Please contact us if you have further questions.
We suggest, if at all possible, that you cross at the Perth-Andover, New Brunswick /Fort Fairfield, Maine Border. This crossing is only 12 miles from the University and we have good relationships with the Immigration Officials assigned there.
Note: If you are bringing any valuables (electronic equipment, photography equipment, computer, etc.) to the U.S., be sure to stop at the Canadian Border Office to register them with Customs; otherwise, you may be charged tariffs upon returning to Canada.
Bring the following documents when entering the U.S. for the first time to attend the University of Maine at Presque Isle:
- Form I-20SEVIS fee receipt
- Passport ( http://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/whti-ivho/menu-eng.html)
- Photo Identification or Birth Certificate
- $6.00 (U.S. funds) to cover the cost of the Student Visa processing fee
- Your acceptance letter to the University of Maine at Presque Isle
- Financial Documents (all loan papers, bank statements, etc.) that show you have the necessary funds to support yourself while you are in the U.S. attending school.
At the U.S. Border Crossing, the Immigration Official will take the I-20 Form, process it and return your I-20 with an I-94 card attached to it. We recommend that you make copies of your I-20 and I-94 card. NOTE: Keep your original I-20 and original I-94 card with you at all times and place the copies in a safe place.
- Stop at the Canadian Border Office to declare valuables you are taking to the U.S.
- Give the U.S. Immigration Official the Form I-20, photo ID, Sevis fee receipt, and any other requested documents and pay $6.00 (U.S. funds) for the processing fee.
- Form I-20 will be processed and returned to you with the I-94 card attached to it. Place these documents in a safe place.
- Be advised that your vehicle and personal belongings may be subject to search.
For International Students entering the U.S.
(Canadian students see steps above)
Prior to going to the U.S. Embassy or U.S. Consulate, you must complete Form I-901 to pay the required SEVIS fee. This form is available online at: http://www.ice.gov/sevis/i901.
Read the instructions contained on this webpage and click on “Proceed to I-901 form and payment.” Then click on “I-20” and “OK”. Complete the form, pay by credit or debit card and print a receipt. Completing the form online will help ensure that you provide all the information in the correct format.
Be sure to print and retain a copy of your receipt to take with you to the U.S. Embassy or U.S. Consulate. Having the printed receipt will speed up the verification process and allow processing of the I-20. For additional information on the SEVIS I-901 fee payment and filing process, access the SEVP web site at http://www.ice.gov/sevis/i901. Please contact us if you have further questions.
Visit the U.S. Embassy or Consulate
You need to process your I-20 at the U.S. Embassy or U.S. Consulate closest to your home. Since the process to obtain a student visa and the cost of this process may vary from country to country, we suggest you contact the U.S. Embassy or U. S. Consulate to determine the days and times they process I-20s and make an appointment if possible. Remember to ask what you need to bring (Form I-20, Passport, Identification, SEVIS Fee receipt, University Letter of Acceptance, financial statements, etc.) and amount of money order(s).
In most cases, you will meet with a U.S. official for 5 minutes. In that time, the official needs to determine your proficiency of the English language, your ability to support yourself while in the U.S. and the likelihood of you returning to your home country after completing your studies. To better prepare yourself for your interview, please read the enclosure, “What Embassy or Consulate Officials Look For,” that you received in your acceptance packet.
Before Leaving for the U.S. Border Crossing
- Verify as soon as possible receipt of your I-20. Email Jessica Winslow–jessica.b.winslow@maine.edu.
- Complete Form I-901 online at http://www.fmjfee.com and pay the SEVIS fee.
When you receive your I-20 and Instruction letter
- Verify as soon as possible receipt of your I-20. Please email: jessica.b.winslow@maine.edu.
- Complete Form I-901 online at http://www.fmjfee.com and pay the SEVIS fee.
Going to the U.S. Embassy or U.S. Consulate
Documents Checklist – Bring the following documents when entering the U.S. for the first time to attend the University of Maine at Presque Isle.
- Valid Passport and Photo Identification or official Birth Certificate
- Form I-20 and SEVIS fee receipt
- $6.00 (U.S. funds) to cover the cost of the Student Visa processing fee
- Your acceptance letter to the University of Maine at Presque Isle
- Evidence of financial ability to meet expenses. Bring financial documents, such as, bank statements, scholarship award letter, loan papers, sponsorship letter, etc. that show you have the necessary funds to support yourself while you are in the U.S. attending school.
- Evidence of intent to depart the U.S. after completion of studies
- Form DS-156, “Nonimmigrant Visa Application” with 50 x 50mm photograph
- Form DS-158, “Contact Information & Work History for Nonimmigrant Visa”
Before Leaving for the United States
- Secure travel arrangements so you arrive at the University before the 1st day of school.
- Confirm your housing plans and your arrival plans with the Admissions Office.
- Before leaving your country, if necessary, declare valuables you are taking to the U.S.
Entering the United States
- Give the U.S. Immigration Official the Form I-20, Passport and any other requested documents. You may be asked to pay $6.00 U.S. funds processing fee.
- Form I-20 will be processed and returned to you with the I-94 card (Arrival/Departure document) attached to it or your Passport. Keep these documents in a safe place.
- Be advised that your personal belongings may be subject to search.
Once you arrive on campus
(for Canadian and all other International Students)
- Upon your arrival, you must fill out the online check-in form. This “check-in” form needs to be filled out every semester until you graduate. The form is used to update your record and verify that you have arrived at UMPI and are using your I-20. In addition to completing the form, you will need to provide a copy of your I-94* (white card). For more information, please contact Jessica Winslow at 207-768-9668 or jessica.b.winslow@maine.edu. *I-94 — a small, white, cardboard form that is stapled in your passport or on your I-20 and is dated to show entry and expiration dates. It is called the “departure record” and is surrendered when you leave the country. It should also have your admission number or alien registration number on the card.
- Attend New Student International Orientation for First Year and Transfer International Students. Time and place was provided in the letter that accompanied your I-20.
- Photocopy your Form I-20 and I-94 card. Keep the originals with you at all times and put the copies in a safe place along with your Passport.
- Canadian students, BE SURE TO CARRY YOUR PASSPORT– New immigration laws went into effect requiring all U.S. and Canadian citizens to carry passports. If you need more information please go to:
http://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/whti-ivho/menu-eng.html
FAQ (scroll down for an FAQ specific to Canadian students)
What immunizations do I need?
Maine State Law requires that all students who are enrolled full-time or part-time in a degree program or who are taking at least 12 credits through the Continuing Education Department, show proof of immunity to the following infectious diseases: Measles (Rubeola), Rubella (German Measles), and Mumps (MMR), if born after December 31, 1956, and Tetanus/Diphtheria (TD) for all students regardless of age. The University is not allowed to permit a student to be enrolled or to attend classes without a certificate of immunization or other evidence of immunity. The presentation of acceptable proof of immunization or immunity must be made prior to a student’s attendance in class or participation in other activities conducted by the University.
Do I need medical insurance?
Yes, if you don’t have an insurance policy already in place when you come to UMPI, then you need to have the insurance that the University provides. This insurance is offered at the beginning of each semester and is purchased at the beginning of the school year.
How many classes are taught by teacher’s assistants?
There are no classes taught by teacher’s assistants. One of the benefits of UMPI being a smaller university is that you’ll be taught exclusively by faculty! You will also have smaller classroom sizes and have more time with your professors.
How long is the semester?
UMPI offers courses by semester, fall and spring, with each semester lasting 15 weeks. Summer courses are also available. Classes run Monday and Wednesday, Monday, Wednesday and Friday or Tuesday and Thursday. The classes are typically 50 minutes, 3 times a week or 75 minutes, 2 times a week.
What’s a good way for me to meet new people and get involved?
There are over 30 different clubs and organizations, including an International Students Club, that you can join. From athletics to the arts, dance to criminal justice, there are a variety of ways that you can get out there and get involved. You can become a reporter for our school newspaper, the U Times, or even have your own show on the school radio station, WUPI. If you can’t find anything that you’re interested in, start your own club! Another great way to meet people is through our athletic events. UMPI is the home of the Owls and, if you like sports, you can go to our games and cheer on the home team!
I might need some help with some of my classes. Is that something that I can get there?
Yes, there is a great tutoring staff available for all classes. Our Learning Commons offers Professional tutoring and peer tutoring free of charge. It also provides one-on-one tutoring for writers at all levels of course work to help with all stages of the writing process. The center staff help with everything from coming up with an idea for something to write to helping revise a completed paper.
What is there to do on campus and in the surrounding area?
On campus, we have a wide variety of activities, including athletics, academic clubs and student organizations. Outside of campus, we are located just minutes from the New Brunswick border. There are four-season recreational opportunities in a clean and safe rural environment. Within walking distance is the Braden Movie Theater, shops, places to eat and a grocery store! Close by there is also the Aroostook Centre Mall, the Nordic Heritage Center (world class Nordic skiing facility), Big Rock in Mars Hill (alpine skiing), another movie theater in Caribou, Aroostook State Park (tremendous snow shoeing, cross country skiing, mountain biking trails), and the Caribou Performing Arts Center.
What are the selection criteria for International Student Tuition Scholarships?
Academic achievement: high school transcripts, GPA, rigor of curriculum, SAT/ACT scores.
Quality of written essay, which is part of the application.
Diversity as represented by country.
Are photocopies of TOEFL and/or SAT scores and transcripts acceptable?
We cannot accept photocopies of test scores or transcripts. Only official or certified copies will be accepted.
FAQ – Canadian Students
Are there any scholarships or financial assistance for Canadian students?
YES! Below is information about our Canadian Scholarships as well as a link for outside financial assistance.
The University of Maine at Presque Isle believes that the presence of Canadian students enriches the educational experiences of all University students.
This Canadian Merit Award is for students who have not earned an undergraduate degree:
- $5,000 to students with a Canadian academic average of 90 or above.
As a Canadian student will I be able to work?
There are limited jobs on campus and special situations when the U.S. Government gives approval to work off campus. Contact International Student Services via the Dean of Students Office, 207-768-9610, for more information.
Do I need to bring a computer on campus?
You don’t need to bring a computer on campus. We have several computer labs on campus as well as computer kiosks for you to stop and check your email!
What is an F1 Visa?
The F1 Visa is a student visa that is used by foreigners of non-immigrant status. This visa allows you to enter and remain in the United States for the purpose of studying at an approved school.
Do I need medical insurance?
Yes, if you don’t have an insurance policy already in place when you come to UMPI, then you need to have the insurance that the University provides. This insurance is offered at the beginning of each semester and you should purchase it at the beginning of the school year. A copy of your provincial insurance card will exempt you from the University Insurance Program.
What should I bring with me for my dorm room and is there anything that I should know about bringing items across the border?
We have a detailed list of items that you might want to bring with you. For more details, go to our Housing and Residence Life page and look for “What to Bring.” Have a list of the items that you’re bringing with you that can be checked if needed. Household and electronic items being brought across the border should be registered at the Canadian Customs. This will aid in the process of taking them back into Canada.
