COVID-19 Information for International Accepted Students

During this challenging time, we know you have questions about how the coronavirus (COVID-19) could impact your impending enrollment, especially if you are traveling from outside of the United States.

Covid-19 Impact at the University at Buffalo

What is the current situation at UB regarding COVID-19?

At this time, the University at Buffalo School of Law is open and operational, although faculty and staff are working remotely and courses are being offered online for the remainder of the spring 2020 semester. For specific details on university operations and policies, visit the University at Buffalo COVID-19 FAQs webpage, the official channel of COVID-19 communication for the entire UB community.  Admitted International Students are also encouraged to visit the University at Buffalo Office of International Admissions webpage.

How is COVID-19 affecting students’ lives who are planning to attend UB?

Admitted students have shared with us their fear of not being able to make it to Buffalo in time to start their academic program. We understand that it may be difficult to make plans for your arrival in Buffalo. As we receive information from various authorities, including the U.S.  and New York State governments and the University at Buffalo, we will share it with you in a timely and transparent manner through multiple communications channels: via this FAQ page, email and social media. If you haven’t done so already, be sure to connect with us on our social media channels.

Will 2020 semester start dates be impacted by COVID-19?

At present, we have made no changes to the university academic calendar. The university is anticipating regular enrollment for fall 2020.

Deferral Process

Can I defer my admission?

Some of our programs have both spring and fall start dates, while some of our programs are fall start only. Speak with your admissions team to find out if you are eligible for a deferral and what the next applicable term would be for your enrollment.

Would I have to go through the application process again if we have to defer admission due to COVID-19?

No, you would not have to go through the application process again. We can defer your application to the next applicable admissions term.

International Students

Is the university going to send us I-20s?

Due to the national emergency and at the direction of the New York State’s governor, the State University of New York, and UB Human Resources, all International Admissions staff are working remotely. Academic review, international admission decisions, immigration review and creation of I-20 SEVIS records are all being done remotely. At this time, it is not possible to complete the USPS and UPS labeling and courier shipment processes. In addition, we recognize that shipping and mail services in your country may also be disrupted or suspended. As an admitted student, you have access to your SEVIS ID number in the student portal. I-20s will be mailed/couriered as soon as we have access to do so.

What is the last date to send documents for I-20 processing?

There is no specific deadline for submitting immigration documents. However, we encourage you to complete these steps as soon as possible so when shipping and visa appointments resume, you have the appropriate materials to move forward.

Can the DS-160 and SEVIS fee be paid now?

valid regardless of the I-20 start date. If your admission is deferred, UB can also defer the I-20 to a future term. Visit fmjfee.com for more information on the I-901 SEVIS fee.

Many banks are closed due to the COVID-19 situation. I am having issues getting bank documents for I-20. What should I do?

We understand the challenge you may have securing appropriate financial documentation due to COVID-19 closures. You should continue, to the best of your ability, to work to get your bank documents and other I-20 documents as soon as possible. We can begin processing your I-20 once we receive all of your required documentation.

Will I be able to apply for a U.S. visa?

All visa issuance questions should be directed to your local U.S. consulate office. Visa appointment and issuance are regulated by the U.S. government. Information about visa appointment wait times, news and alerts can be found at the U.S. Department of State website. You can also contact your local U.S. consulate office for specific information about the impact of COVID-19 on visa issuance in your area.

Note, if you are considering using a private visa documentation processing firm, be aware that their specific calendars are separate from those of the U.S. Department of State or consulate offices. Private visa processing firms may have different availability and dates.

U.S. visa appointments are currently suspended indefinitely. When will they begin issuing appointments?

U.S. embassies and consulates have cancelled all routine immigrant and nonimmigrant visa appointments as of March 20, 2020. Embassies and consulates will resume routine visa services as soon as possible, but are unable to provide a specific date at this time. Students are encouraged to check in with the embassy and consulate regularly to monitor visa appointment changes.

What if I can’t get a visa due to suspension issues and am unable to reach Buffalo by the time my program starts?

If your arrival in Buffalo is delayed by any COVID-19 related issue, we will continue to inform you of your enrollment options and ask that you work with your admissions team to understand the impacts for your specific program.