Application Frequently Asked Questions
When should I apply?
We recommend that you apply as early as possible because enrollment can fill up quickly. However, we cannot issue I-20s more than 6 months before the start of a term. We issue most I-20s about 3-4 months before the start of the term.
How long will it take to receive an acceptance letter and I-20?
We will process your application and send your I-20 as soon as possible via email and by courier. Usually, an I-20 is created for you within 3 business days after receiving all your I-20 application documents. We do not know how many days it will take to reach you because the time is different for different countries.
What if I am studying at another school or English program in the US?
If you are transferring to Drexel English Language Center, you will need to fill out an I-20 Transfer Form (PDF) and give it to the International Student Advisor at your current school. We need to receive the completed form before we can issue an I-20.
I received my acceptance letter and I-20, but I'm not sure if I can start.
You should defer your studies if:
- You do not have enough time to get a visa.
- You need to begin your studies at a later date.
- Your visa was denied and you want to reapply for a visa
Please note: If you are already in the United States, you CANNOT defer your studies and your SEVIS record will be terminated.
Steps to defer your studies:
- Send us a letter requesting a deferral. An email is acceptable.
- We must receive your request by Wednesday of the first week of the session.
- Once the ELC accepts your request to defer, we will issue you a new I-20 for the next available term and send it to you via email and courier.
- If you already paid your SEVIS fee, you do not have to pay it again as long as you re-apply within 12 months of your first denial.
I received and acceptance letter and I-20, but I want to transfer to another school.
To initiate a transfer, you must send us the following:
- Acceptance letter from your new school
- Transfer form from your new school