How do I apply for the summer intake in the USA, and which visa fees should I expect?

Applying for the summer intake in the USA has three big parts: the university application, the I-20, and then the visa. Many colleges admit only local students in summer, so confirm that your program takes international students first.

Visa Costs to Expect

How the Process Works

• Confirm the program admits international students in summer, lets you study full-time, and is a degree start, not just a summer session.
• Apply through the university's own portal, or the Common App for some undergraduate routes. Summer sessions use a separate registration process.
• Allow at least two months, since credential reports and reference letters often take longer than the form.
• Collect transcripts and degree certificate, English test score, SOP, letters of recommendation, resume, passport and bank or loan documents.
• Your I-20 arrives after the university checks your funds. Your visa interview must be in India, and the visa can be issued up to 365 days before your start date.
• Since 15 September 2026, graduate students typically cannot change programs or transfer schools without SEVP approval, unless an exception applies, and you can typically enter the US up to 30 days before your I-20 start date.

My Advice

Check your portal and email every few days, since a missing document can hold up your I-20. Fees and rules can change, so confirm them on the official US government pages before applying for the 2027 or 2028 intake.