Application Applicants must submit an application form, transcripts, recommendation letter, proof of financial support, $55 application fee, and a $550 tuition deposit before the I-20 form is issued. F-1 Visa and I-20 The Institute is authorized under federal law to enroll non-immigrant alien students. Students requesting an I-20 form for a student visa must register for at least one term (11 weeks) unless they complete the intensive English program or have an acceptance letter for a regular academic program at the university level. The I-20 form is only issued to a student registered in the full-time program. Housing and Housing Application The ESLI Housing Service arranges placement with American host families. The families provide a secure, comfortable, and reasonably priced environment where the student can further practice English and learn about American culture. See the "Fee" section for details about the cost of home-stay. Health Insurance Students who participate in the ESLI home-stay program are required to have health insurance. The institute recommends that all students maintain health insurance. The cost of medical insurance is relatively inexpensive when compared to the potential cost of medical treatment. Medical insurance can be purchased through an insurance company that offers a unique policy to international students for a premium of about $50 per month. Applications for this policy are available in the ESLI office. Transportation The systems of transportation in the San Francisco bay area are excellent. Buses, trains, and subways provide convenient access to shopping centers, libraries, and tourist sites. Host families are within 20 minutes of the school, either by walking or taking a single train or bus.