Incoming Students

Welcome, Class of 2028!

  • Congratulations on your admission!  We hope that you will join our international family at Holy Cross! You are welcome here!
  • This site will provide information specific to international students:  F-1 visa students as well as dual/US citizens living abroad.  All general information for the Class of 2028 is presented on the College's main incoming students' page and will not be repeated here.
  • All COVID information is found at the College's official page, https://www.holycross.edu/2019-novel-coronavirus-covid-19-information.
  • Please regularly visit the Announcements page and read the important FAQs specific to international students, visas, and travel.

General Information

International Student Orientation

Gateways Orientation is looking forward to welcoming international students in the Class of 2028 and new transfer students during Gateways International Student Orientation. This program is designed specifically for international students to assist in your transition to Holy Cross and takes place will take place in August before all members of the first-year class attend Gateways Fall Orientation. 

Applying for an I-20 Form 

The I-20 Form, along with your valid passport and U.S. F-1 (student) visa, is required for your entry to the U.S.  After you have made your deposit Admissions will send you instructions on how to apply for the I-20 and upload the required supporting documents. 

  • Please note : Holy Cross generally does not issue I-20s until after May 1, even for Early Decision students. 

If you currently hold a U.S. visa other than F-1 (e.g., B-2, E-2), please email Mr. Christopher Segur, Associate Director of Admissions.  He will provide information about the next steps you must take before he can issue you an initial Form I-20.

If you have questions about your initial I-20 Form, please contact Mr. Segur directly.  

Requesting a SEVIS Transfer of  Your Current I-20 Form

If you have been studying at a U.S. high school and have a current, valid I-20 form you may request that it be transferred to Holy Cross.  Admissions will send you the “Request for F-1 Visa/Form I-20” and you should complete it, indicating that you already hold a current F-1 visa.

Next Admissions will send you the SEVIS Transfer Request form and instructions.   Please be sure to communicate promptly with your high school's international student advisor to ensure that your SEVIS record remains active during the transfer process.  

After you graduate high school your I-20 will be transferred to Holy Cross. At that time the Office of International Students will issue your official Holy Cross I-20. You do not require a new visa unless your current F-1 visa will expire before you re-enter the U.S. to come to Holy Cross. If your visa will expire before you come to Holy Cross, you must renew it at the U.S. embassy/consulate located in your home country.  Due to COVID-19 restrictions there may be reduced hours so you may wish to check the U.S. Department of State website for details.

If you or your current international student advisor have questions about the SEVIS transfer, please contact Mirabelle Tseng (Assist. Dean of International Students).