Apply for a U.S. Visa

Once you’ve been accepted to SPSCC, you should apply for a U.S. Visa as soon as possible when you receive your acceptance packet. Your acceptance packet will include your admission letter and I-20. 

Visit U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement for step-by-step instructions on how to navigate the student visa process.

You will need to pay a SEVIS fee first and then use your receipt to apply for your student visa before you can schedule an interview appointment with the U.S. Consular Office in your home country. Many consulates recommend that you make an appointment no more than 90 days from the intended date of travel, but some can make earlier arrangements for interviews.

Students already studying in the U.S. must complete the Transfer Verification Form and submit it along with a copy of your Student Visa and I-20 during the application process to SPSCC. 

New Student Arrivals

Form Sign-Up

Select Housing

Select and apply for your preferred housing option as soon as possible and before you arrive on campus. See Housing information for options while attending SPSCC and remember to submit a housing application once you have a Visa.

Attend a Pre-Departure Orientation in Your Country

EducationUSA Advising Centers in your country may offer a free pre-departure orientation session for students attending colleges and universities in the United States. Visit the EducationUSA website to find a center in your area and learn more.

Planning for Orientation and Class Registration

Check your email regularly for updates on orientation and arrival information. When you receive your student visa, make flight arrangements no later than the reported date on your I-20. Submit a new student arrival form once you confirm your travel plans. New students are required to attend an orientation to prepare for their first quarter at SPSCC.

Health Insurance for F-1 International Students

Why is continuous health insurance important in the U.S.?

Healthcare in the United States can be very expensive, which may place international students at significant financial risk if they become sick or injured. Having health insurance helps cover medical expenses and reduces the likelihood that health-related issues will interfere with a student's academic success.

South Puget Sound Community College is committed to supporting the health, wellness, and academic success of our international students. For this reason, all F-1 international students are required to maintain qualifying health insurance coverage throughout their enrollment at SPSCC.

Health Insurance Requirement

All F-1 international students must maintain health insurance coverage while enrolled at South Puget Sound Community College.

SPSCC recommends ISO Student Health Insurance, with plans starting at approximately $94 per month. Students may choose a different insurance provider if their policy meets the college's minimum coverage requirements.

Students should purchase health insurance prior to arriving in the United States and must maintain continuous coverage for the duration of their academic program at SPSCC. During new student orientation, students will be required to attest that they have obtained and will maintain qualifying health insurance coverage while studying at the College.

Minimum Coverage Requirements

Health insurance policies must:

  • Provide a minimum of $500,000 coverage per accident or illness.
  • Have a maximum deductible of $100 per accident or illness.
  • Include at least $50,000 in medical evacuation coverage.
  • Include at least $50,000 in repatriation coverage.

SPSCC reserves the right to request proof of insurance coverage at any time to verify compliance with these requirements.

Recommended Insurance Provider: ISO Student Health Insurance

Explore ISO plans that meet SPSCC requirements: SPSCC Health Insurance Plan Options

Getting to Campus

Before you leave your country, please read the U.S. government’s information about the procedures for entering the United States. When you arrive in the United States, you will need to present your I-20 to the immigration officer. Our office offers free shuttle service to Olympia for all new international students. Submit a new student arrival form once your visa and flight information is confirmed. We are excited for your arrival at SPSCC.

Olympia is located about 45 minutes from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (airport code SEA).

  • Shuttle Service: Capital Aeroporter offers shuttle service for about $42.00. Arrange for service before you arrive by visiting the Capital Aeroporter website.
  • Bus Route: IntercityTransit provides a connected bus route from the airport to Olympia, although travel time is over two hours and involves multiples stops and bus transfers.
  • Car Route: Get driving directions to SPSCC from the airport on Google Maps.