F-1

Academic Preparation

Transcripts, diplomas and test scores that show you are ready for the program

Last updated Oct 28, 2026

Educational only — not legal advice.

Evidence that supports this criterion

Official Definition

Transcripts, diplomas, degrees or certificates from earlier schools and standardized test scores the school required, documents consular officers may ask for to see that the student is prepared for the program.

What Consular Officers Look For

This requirement is optional and supporting. Consular officers may ask for your academic record to see that you are prepared for the program: transcripts, diplomas, degrees or certificates from earlier schools, and standardized test scores the school required, such as the SAT, GRE or GMAT.

The records should show the institution, program, dates and results, and should make sense next to the program on the Form I-20. A program that follows from your earlier studies is easier to explain at the interview.

Evidence Strength

Strong Evidence

Transcripts, diplomas and degree certificates showing institution, program, dates and results
Score reports for the standardized tests the school required
A record that makes sense next to the program on the I-20
Names and dates that match the passport and the DS-160

Weak Evidence

Missing or partial transcripts
Scores or certificates with no clear link to the program
Names or dates that differ from the passport or DS-160
A record that you cannot produce when the officer asks

Common Refusal / Processing Triggers

Common Problems

Incomplete records with no results or dates.
A program that does not follow from your academic record, with no explanation.
Names or dates that disagree with the other documents.
Not being able to produce the records when the officer asks for them.

Tips for Strengthening Your Evidence

Pro Tips

Keep a transcript and a diploma or certificate for each earlier school.
Bring the score reports the school required.
Be ready to explain how this program follows from your earlier studies.
Check that names and dates match your passport and DS-160.

Relevant Document Types

Typical uploads: transcripts, diplomas and degree certificates, and SAT, GRE or GMAT score reports.

Ready to check your evidence?

Upload documents and get AI-powered analysis against this criterion.

Create a case

F-1