The most typical visa for Merrimack students is an F-1 Visa. If you will need an F-1 Visa to attend Merrimack, you will first receive an I-20 form from Merrimack, and then schedule an appointment with the U.S. Consulate in your country. 

Step 1. Complete your I-20 requirements

In addition to your deposit, we must have a copy of the following items before an I-20 can be issued:

• copy of your passport
• official, notarized financial documentation.  Notarized financial documentation can come from family sources, international scholarship agencies or government sponsors, and should certify that funds are on deposit/available to meet costs for one academic year of study.

• declaration of finances form.

To transfer from a U.S. school to Merrimack College
If you’ve already provided these documents to us - thank you! Your I-20 will be generated upon receipt of your deposit.

• please notify your current school of the intent to transfer 
• submit a Merrimack College SEVIS Transfer Form    

Upon notification, your current school will update your record in Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) as a “transfer out”  and a release date.  After the release date, Merrimack College will complete the transfer of your record in SEVIS and issue a new I-20.

Step 2. We’ll send you your Certificate of Eligibility (I-20)

You will need this to obtain a student visa.

Step 3. Make an appointment with the nearest U.S. Consulate or Embassy referencing the number on your I-20

Note: Canadian citizens do not need visas to study in the U.S. However, Canadian students do need to obtain an I-20.

Step 4. Pay SEVIS fee

Pay I-901 SEVIS fee. Be sure to keep a copy of your receipt.

Step 5. Connect with International Student Support (ISS) Office

Connect with our ISS office for pre-arrival programming and meet & greets, where you will learn what to expect during your travels, what to pack, and understand the resources available to you as an international student. Email iss@merrimack.edu with your questions and visit the new student section of the ISS website for dates and orientation information.