Congratulations on your admission to Central Michigan University! The International Admissions team, along with the entire CMU community, is here to support you as you finalize your enrollment. Below is our Admitted Student Checklist, which will guide you through the next steps of the enrollment process.
Please do not hesitate to contact our office at isr@cmich.edu if you have any questions or concerns.
Step 1: Know your Global ID and PIN
Your global ID and PIN are your keys to becoming a Central Michigan University student.
You will find your Global ID and PIN in your admission letter when a decision is released. The Global ID and PIN will be used to activate your new student account.
Allow about 24 hours after which you will receive an email indicating an update to your application portal.
Step 2: Activate Your Student Account
Your CMU global ID and password provide you with access to CMU websites, your CMU email account, etc. You will need this to begin the I-20 request process. Your account information and instructions to activate your account were sent to you in your admission letter. Please refer to your admission letter to complete this step.
Website link: https://myaccount.cmich.edu/newaccount
Please Note: When you first log in to your CMU account that use your Global ID, you will be promoted to activate your MFA (Multi Factor Authentication). For more information on how to do this, review the Frequently Asked Questions about Multi-Factor Authentication page.
If you have any questions regarding your global ID and/or password, you should contact CMU's Information Technology Help Desk at +1 (989) 774-3662 or helpdesk@cmich.edu.
Step 3: Submit Your I-20 Request
Use your CMU global ID and password from step 2 to log in to international student portal at https://international.cmich.edu/. In addition to proof of funding, you will need to upload:
- Completed Cover Letter for Bank Statements (download through student portal)
- Completed Sponsor Affidavit (if applicable - download through student portal)
- Information Page of Passport
- Required information for any dependents if applicable
- If currently attending school in the U.S., a copy of your current I-20, U.S. visa, and I-94
Follow the instructions on the first screen. Proceed through the remaining tabs to complete the I-20 request. Pay close attention to the amount of funding you are required to demonstrate. This is listed on the "Financial Details" tab.
Once you've completed all of the requirements and uploaded the necessary documentation, proceed to the "Completed" tab and click the "Complete" button.
Step 4: Register for Admitted Student Webinars
Join us for our monthly admitted student webinars. We'll discuss about:
Please check your mailbox regularly to register for our upcoming events!
Step 5: Apply for Your Visa
Complete the online application form DS-160. All forms must be completed and signed, and can be found a thttp://evisaforms.state.gov/default.asp. A separate form is needed for children, even if they are included in their parent’s passport.
When filling out the DS-160 the university address can be found on the I-20.
The contact person is the staff member (DSO) that signed your I-20. Their details can be accessed here:meet-the-international-recruitment-team.
Visit http://www.usembassy.gov to locate the embassy or consulate near you to schedule your required visa appointment. Wait times for an appointment can be lengthy so apply as soon as possible upon receiving your I-20.
Step 6: Pay the SEVIS fee
The SEVIS fee, also known as the Federal SEVIS I-901 fee, is a mandatory fee that must be paid by student and exchange visitors before applying for an F-1. The fee is $350 for the F-1 visa. The fee can be paid by credit card, Western Union Quick Pay, or by mail. We do not recommend paying the fee by mail for it might take as long as four weeks to be processed. To pay the fee online, follow these instructions:
Step 7: Submit Your Official, Final Transcripts
All students must submit their official, final transcripts and proof of degree (if applicable) before the first day of classes. This transcript must confirm your education at your academic level has been completed, reflect your final grades, and come directly from your institution.
Please review the following options:
Electronic submission: Your university can send your transcript via secure electronic delivery service to isr@cmich.edu.
In-person submission: You may bring your transcript with you to campus. The transcript must be sealed in an envelope stamped by your previously attended institutions. During the week before classes, the International Admissions team will be available to process your documents.
Mail submission: Your university can mail hard copies of your transcript to the following address.
Step 8: Plan Your Travel as an International Admitted Student
When purchasing your plane ticket, international students should note the start date on your I-20. You are allowed to enter the United States no earlier than 30 days prior to the start date listed on the I-20.
Note that Residence Halls for on-campus students are not generally available for move-in until just prior to orientation. Questions about early move-in can be directed to reslife@cmich.edu
Please check your CMU mailbox for more information about pre-arrival, and reach out to us at arrival@cmich.edu with any updates or questions so we can better prepare for your arrival.
Step 9: Registration for Courses
You can connect with your academic advisor to ensure that you understand your degree requirements and take the correct classes during your first semester.
Undergraduate students will meet with an academic advisor during the two-day orientation for new international students. Graduate-level students should consult with their academic department.
Step 10: Prepare to Pay Your Bill
Your first semester bill will be calculated after registering for your courses. You will receive an email when your bill is available. Please pay for your bill before the due date to avoid any late fees. You will not receive a bill if you do not register for classes.