Welcome International Students!
Admissions / International Students
A World-Class Education & Tennis Program
for Students Around the Globe
North Miami Beach Academy is proud to welcome students from around the world to our comprehensive K–12 college preparatory program with integrated tennis training. As a U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) approved institution, we are authorized by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) to issue I-20 documents to international students seeking F-1 Student Visas. Our unique approach combines academic excellence with world-class tennis training, providing international students with an unparalleled educational and athletic experience in beautiful South Florida.
I-20 Issuing Institution
K–12 Private Academy
Eligible Participating School
Academic Program
International Family Testimonial
Hear From Our International Families
At NMBA, we found an international community of warm, caring people — a close-knit community where our son made great friends. The values of NMBA matched ours: putting the well-being of children and teenagers first, helping them develop their technical tennis skills, how to compete, but also learning how to process defeat and success. Learning how to put things in perspective, focusing on strategic thinking and continuous improvement — all skills which make total sense on a tennis court, but are invaluable in real life as well.
I'm convinced that the experience at NMBA was transformational for Loic to an extent that he'll probably only fully appreciate when he gets a few years older. We truly appreciated the fabulous coaching focused on the individuality of the player, the open communication, the friendships, the embracing community. It was just a wonderful experience all around and I could recommend it to everybody.
F-1 Student Visa Process
Your Path to Studying at North Miami Beach Academy
A Step-by-Step Guide to the F-1 Student Visa Process
- Complete and submit your application to North Miami Beach Academy
- Provide academic transcripts and records from your last school
- Submit proof of English language proficiency (if applicable)
- Complete any required assessments or interviews
Once we review your application and determine you meet our admission requirements, you will receive an official acceptance letter from North Miami Beach Academy.
Start Your ApplicationBefore we can issue your I-20 form, you must demonstrate that you have sufficient financial resources to cover:
- Tuition and fees for your program
- Living expenses (housing, food, transportation)
- Books and supplies
- Personal expenses
- Bank statements showing available funds (must be in English)
- Sponsorship letters (if someone else is funding your education)
- Scholarship award letters (if applicable)
- Financial guarantee forms
- Annual tuition: TBD — contact admissions for current program pricing
- Estimated living expenses: TBD — varies based on housing and lifestyle
- Estimated total for your year: TBD — calculated upon enrollment confirmation
Once we receive your financial documentation, your Designated School Official (DSO) will:
- Create your record in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS)
- Generate your Form I-20 (Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status)
- Mail your I-20 to you
- Provide instructions for your international courier (FedEx/DHL)
- Your SEVIS ID number (you'll need this for the next steps)
- North Miami Beach Academy's school code
- Your program start date
- Your estimated program completion date
- Financial information
- Review all information carefully for accuracy
- Sign and date the Form I-20 page 1
- If you are under 18, your parent/guardian must also sign
- Keep your I-20 safe — you'll need the original document throughout your time in the U.S.
- After receiving your I-20 you must pay the SEVIS I-901 fee before applying for your F-1 visa
- Fee is approximately $350 (subject to change)
- Visit fmjfee.com (the official SEVIS payment site)
- You will need your SEVIS ID number
- You can pay by credit card or use Western Union Quick Pay
- Print and save your payment receipt
- You must bring this receipt to your visa interview
- The SEVIS ID on your receipt must match the SEVIS ID on your I-20
- Complete the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application (Form DS-160) on the U.S. Department of State website
- Visit the U.S. Department of State Electronic Visa Application Center
- Your passport (valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay)
- Your I-20 form
- Travel itinerary or intended date of entry to the U.S.
- Information about your educational institution
- Your parent/guardian information
- Print the DS-160 confirmation page with barcode
- Bring this to your visa interview
- Approximately $185 (F-1 visa application fee)
Payment methods vary by country and U.S. Embassy/Consulate. Check your local U.S. Embassy website for specific instructions.
- Keep your payment receipt — you'll need to present this at your visa interview
- This fee is non-refundable, even if your visa is denied
- Visa filing fee from $186 (applies to most F-1 applicants)
- This must be paid after the interview fee
Schedule an appointment at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in your home country.
- F-1 visas can be issued up to 365 days before your program start date
- Schedule as far in advance as possible — wait times vary
- Schedule at least four months in advance to avoid long wait times
Essential Documents:
- Valid passport (valid for at least 6 months beyond your program end date)
- Form I-20 (original, signed by you and North Miami Beach Academy's DSO)
- SEVIS I-901 fee payment receipt
- DS-160 application fee payment receipt
- One passport-style photograph (if photo placed during DS-160 filing)
Supporting Documents:
- Acceptance letter from North Miami Beach Academy
- Financial documents (bank statements, scholarship letters, sponsorship letters)
- Academic transcripts and diplomas
- Evidence of ties to your home country (property, family connections, job offers after graduation)
- Why you chose to study in the United States
- Why you chose North Miami Beach Academy specifically
- Your educational and career goals
- How you will finance your studies
- Your plans to return to your home country after completing your studies
- Your ties to your home country
At the Interview:
- Arrive at the embassy with all required documents
- A consular officer will interview you under oath
- Be honest, clear, and confident in your answers
- The interview generally lasts 2–15 minutes
Key Points:
- Under U.S. law, visa applicants are presumed to be "intending immigrants" unless they can prove otherwise. You must demonstrate that you:
- Have strong ties to your home country
- Intend to return to your home country after completing your studies
- Are coming to the U.S. for educational purposes only
The consular officer will inform you if:
- Your visa is approved
- Your application requires additional administrative processing (this can take additional time)
- Your visa is denied (you may reapply if circumstances change)
- Your passport with the F-1 visa stamp will be returned to you
- Verify that all information on the visa is correct
- Your original I-20 will be held (you'll receive it at NMBA)
Check Your Documents:
- Valid passport with F-1 visa
- Original signed I-20
- SEVIS I-901 payment receipt
- Acceptance letter from North Miami Beach Academy
- You may NOT enter the United States more than 30 days before the program start date listed on your I-20
- You must show the CBP officer your original I-20 and other documents
- Keep your I-20 safe — you do NOT pack this in checked baggage
- Present your passport, F-1 visa, and I-20 to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer
- The CBP officer will review your documents and may ask you questions
- You will be fingerprinted and photographed
- The CBP officer makes the final decision about your entry to the U.S.
- You will receive a stamp in your passport and an I-94 Arrival/Departure Record
- Your F-1 status officially begins when you enter the country
- You will receive a Form I-94 / No. — your F-1 status duration is "D/S" (Duration of Status)
- Save your I-94 record — you can access it later at i94.cbp.dhs.gov
- You'll need the I-94 information later: when you get your driver's license, open a bank account, etc. You'll need this information later
- Contact North Miami Beach Academy immediately
- Report to your Designated School Official (DSO) within the timeframe specified on your I-20
- Complete orientation and registration
- Begin your academic and athletic journey!
Ready to Begin Your Journey?
Download the full step-by-step guide or contact our International Student Admissions Office to get started.
Download Your Step-by-Step GuideNorth Miami Beach Academy International Student Admissions Office
Phone: (305) 974-2582
Email: admissions@nmbacademy.com
Resources
Helpful Resources & Downloadable Guides
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Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) Study in the States — studyinthestates.dhs.gov
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U.S. Immigration & Customs Enforcement (ICE) Students and Exchange Visitors
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U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Students and Employment
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Duke University Visual Guide — F-1 Visa Process Flowchart (PDF) This helpful visual guide shows the entire process from admission to arrival
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USAGov Student Visa Guide usa.gov/student-visa
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NAFSA's 10 Points to Remember nafsa.org — 10 Points to Remember When Applying for a Student Visa
Disclaimer: The external links and resources listed above are provided for informational purposes only. North Miami Beach Academy does not control, maintain, or guarantee the accuracy of third-party government or organization websites. Visa fees, requirements, processing times, and regulations are subject to change at any time without notice. Always consult the official U.S. government departments and a qualified immigration professional for the most current and applicable guidance.
International Admissions
Frequently Asked Questions
The complete F-1 visa process typically takes 3–6 months from the time you receive your acceptance letter to the time you arrive in the U.S. Key timelines to plan around include:
- Receiving your I-20 from NMBA: 1–2 weeks after submitting financial documentation
- SEVIS fee processing: Immediate for online payments
- DS-160 completion: 1–3 days
- Visa interview scheduling: Varies widely by country — check U.S. State Department wait times
- Visa decision: Usually same day or within a few weeks if additional processing is needed
We strongly recommend starting the process at least 4–6 months before your program start date.
Yes. Your spouse and unmarried children under 21 may accompany you to the U.S. on F-2 dependent visas. Each dependent will need their own Form I-20 issued by NMBA and must apply for their own F-2 visa. Important notes for F-2 dependents:
- F-2 spouses and children may NOT be employed in the United States under any circumstances
- F-2 children may attend school full-time
- F-2 spouses may study part-time and volunteer
Contact our admissions office to request dependent I-20 forms once your own I-20 has been issued.
F-1 students have very limited work authorization. As a K–12 student at NMBA, employment is generally not permitted. Key rules include:
- Off-campus employment is not authorized for F-1 students in their first year
- Any employment must be authorized by your Designated School Official (DSO) and, where required, by USCIS
- Working without authorization is a serious visa violation and can result in immediate departure from the U.S.
Your primary purpose for being in the U.S. on an F-1 visa is to study — your focus should be on your academic and athletic program at NMBA.
A visa denial is not the end of the road. If your F-1 visa is denied:
- Ask the consular officer for the specific reason in writing
- Ask what additional documents would help overcome the denial
- You may reapply if your circumstances change or you can address the reason for denial
- Common reasons for denial include insufficient financial documentation, inability to demonstrate strong ties to your home country, or concerns about immigrant intent
Contact our admissions office immediately if your visa is denied — we can help guide your next steps and advise on strengthening your reapplication.
Your F-1 status is valid for the duration of your academic program at NMBA, as specified on your Form I-20. You must maintain your status by:
- Attending all classes and maintaining satisfactory academic progress
- Maintaining a full course of study each term
- Reporting any change of address to your DSO within 10 days
- Not working without authorization
- Keeping your passport valid throughout your stay
- Maintaining valid health insurance
After completing your program, F-1 students have a 60-day grace period to depart the United States or transfer to another school.
You may enter the United States no earlier than 30 days before your program start date as listed on your I-20. We recommend arriving at least one week before your program begins to allow time to:
- Settle into your housing and get oriented
- Report to NMBA's Designated School Official (DSO)
- Complete any required orientation and registration
- Get acclimated to South Florida's climate and time zone
Do not travel to the U.S. before your authorized entry window — early arrival can result in being denied entry at the port of entry.
F-1 Student Compliance
Maintaining Your F-1 Status
Once you arrive at North Miami Beach Academy, you must maintain your F-1 student status throughout your time in the U.S. Your status officially begins the moment you enter the country — and these requirements apply from day one.
Maintain full-time enrollment and satisfactory academic progress toward your degree. Speak with your DSO immediately if school becomes too difficult — do not simply stop attending.
You must maintain satisfactory academic progress toward completing your program. Falling behind academically can jeopardize your F-1 status and your ability to remain in the U.S.
Working off-campus without USCIS authorization is a serious visa violation. As a K–12 student, your focus must remain on your academic and athletic program at NMBA.
You must notify your DSO within 10 days of any change of address. Your DSO is required to update your SEVIS record to reflect your current U.S. address at all times.
Your passport must remain valid throughout your stay in the United States. Renew your passport through your home country's embassy or consulate in the U.S. before it expires.
All F-1 students at NMBA are required to maintain valid health insurance throughout their enrollment. Your DSO can advise you on approved health insurance options available to international students.
Your Designated School Official (DSO) Is Here to Help
Once you arrive at North Miami Beach Academy, you must maintain your F-1 student status by following all SEVIS reporting requirements. Our Designated School Official (DSO) is here to help you stay compliant, navigate any issues that arise, and guide you through all regulatory requirements throughout your time in the U.S. Never hesitate to reach out — staying informed and compliant protects your status, your education, and your future.
Life at NMBA
A Day in the Life at North Miami Beach Academy
See what a typical day looks like for our student-athletes — from morning classes to afternoon training, all within the inspiring environment of a university campus setting.
Ready to start your journey? Begin your application today.
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Next Steps
Ready to begin your journey at North Miami Beach Academy? Here's how to take the next step toward your academic and athletic future in the United States.
Learn about our comprehensive K–12 curriculum and college preparatory program.
View Academic ProgramsBegin your application to North Miami Beach Academy today and take the first step toward your F-1 visa.
Apply NowDiscover our world-class tennis training program and what sets NMBA apart from any other academy.
View Tennis ProgramCan't visit in person? Schedule a virtual tour of our campus located on Florida International University's Biscayne Bay Campus.
Schedule a TourHave questions? Our International Student Admissions team is ready to help guide you through every step.
Contact AdmissionsNorth Miami Beach Academy — International Student Admissions Office
Monday – Friday, 7:30am to 9:00pm | Sat./Sun. 7:30am to 7:30pm
The information provided on this page is intended for general guidance only and is subject to change. For the most current and official information about F-1 student visas, please consult the U.S. Department of State, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), and the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) directly.
North Miami Beach Academy does not control, maintain, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of any third-party government or organization websites referenced on this page. Visa fees, requirements, processing times, and immigration regulations are subject to change at any time and without notice. This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal immigration advice.
If you have specific questions about your individual immigration situation, please contact our Designated School Official (DSO) directly or consult a qualified immigration attorney or accredited representative. North Miami Beach Academy is not responsible for decisions made based on information found on this page without verification from the appropriate U.S. government agencies.