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Non-immigrant Status (Visa Holders)

Students considered non-immigrant status / visa holders are described as follows:

  • Non-immigrants are those who enter the U.S. for a temporary basis for a specific purpose.
  • Non-immigrants are admitted in the U.S. depending on the visa type presented.
  • Students in certain non-immigrant statuses may be eligible to establish U.S. /New York State residence for the purpose of in-state tuition.
  • Non-immigrants admitted in a category that does not permit them to establish residency would not be eligible for in-state tuition. 

How to Apply

The admissions process takes only a few steps and applying online is quick and easy. Follow the steps to apply to get started.

When applying, please attach a copy of your valid non-immigrant visa along with a valid, unexpired Form I-94; both documents confirm your current and valid immigration status. To print your latest Form I-94 visit, www.cbp.gov/I94.

Additional Requirements

Instructions for non-immigrant B-1/B-2 visitors who want to enroll in school

B1/B2 (visitors) status holders are prohibited by United States law from pursuing a full-time course of study prior to approval of a change of status to F-1. For more information visit: U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)

Non-immigrant Status eligible to establish New York State Residency

Non-immigrants are subject to the same rules of residency and tuition rate as are all other students. In order to pay in-state tuition they must reside in New York State for 12 months and reside in Suffolk County for 6 months prior to enrollment at Suffolk County Community College.

The following visa categories for non-immigrants under federal law have the capacity to make New York State their domicile, as result may be eligible for in-state tuition rate:

A-1, A-2, A-3  
E-1, E-2
G-1, G-2, G-3, G-4, G-5
I

K-1, K-2, K-3, K-4
L-1 and L-2
N-8 and N-9
O-1 and O-3
R-1 and R-2

S-5, S-6, S-7
T-1, T-2, T-3, T-4
U-1, U-2, U-3, U-4
V-1, V-2, V-3   


No other visa type allows for the establishment of New York State residency.