Step 1: Auburn Portal & Account Activation
To begin, you must activate your Auburn UserID (Gid). This ID is found in your official offer letter. Your portal is used for document uploads, housing, and tuition payments.
How to Access: Visit the Auburn OIT (Office of Information Technology) activation page. Use your Auburn ID number to claim your account and set up your @auburn.edu email address.
Step 2: The $500 USD I-20 Deposit
Auburn University requires a mandatory $500 USD Deposit before the International Admissions team will process your Form I-20.
- 💰 Amount: $500.00 USD
- 💳 Method: Paid through the Auburn Global Portal or Flywire.
- 📌 Purpose: This secures your placement and is applied toward your first-semester fees.
Step 3: Document Submission
After the deposit is confirmed, you must upload your digital immigration documents.
Required Upload Checklist:
- ✔ Passport Page: High-resolution color scan of the identity page.
- ✔ Financial Proof: Bank statement showing funds for one academic year.
- ✔ Sponsor Form: If someone else is funding your education.
Processing: Most I-20s are issued within 7 to 10 business days once all documents are verified.
Visa Refusal & Refund Process
Auburn University understands that visa appointments can be unpredictable. If your F-1 visa is denied, you may request a refund of your $500 deposit.
Refund Requirements:
- Submit a copy of the Visa Denial Letter (214b) from the U.S. Consulate.
- Complete the official Refund Request Form available in your portal.
- Requests must be submitted before the Deferral/Refund Deadline for your intake.
*Please allow 4-6 weeks for the refund to be processed back to the original payment source.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if my bank statement is in my local currency?
You must upload a currency conversion (like XE.com) showing the balance in USD.
Is the $500 deposit extra tuition?
No, it is credited toward your first semester's tuition once you arrive on campus.
Need Official Assistance?
Office of International Admissions
Email: intladm@auburn.edu
Typical Response: 24-48 Hours