According to U.S. law, before a U.S. school or vocational program can enroll international students, it must first be certified by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program — a program housed within the Department of Homeland Security. The certification process confirms the U.S. school is bona fide and operational. Doing so provides a level of protection for both U.S. citizens and international students studying in the U.S.

When a school requests certification, it submits evidence to prove it is a bona fide school; is an established institution of learning or other recognized place of study; possesses the necessary facilities, personnel and finances to conduct instruction in recognized courses; and actually engages in the courses it purports to offer.

Additionally, depending on the type of program, schools must provide a minimum number of hours of classroom instruction each week. Distance-learning programs are not eligible for SEVP certification. These requirements help maintain the sanctity of the international student program to ensure only legitimate schools offer education to international students.

[Find out what to look for in an international students office.]

Some U.S. schools are not accredited by an accrediting agency recognized by the Department of Education. If this is the case, those schools must submit additional evidence before they receive SEVP certification.

All Intensive English Programs must be accredited by a U.S. Department of Education-recognized accrediting agency before they can enroll international students. International students should verify whether the school they plan to attend is listed in the Department of Education’s database of accredited postsecondary institutions and programs before enrolling at that institution.

If a school doesn’t comply with U.S. regulations, SEVP can withdraw the school’s certification to enroll international students. If this happens at a school where you are enrolled, you’ll be provided directions on how to stay compliant with U.S. laws. Urgent information for students affected by a school’s certification withdrawal is posted online. International students can also call the SEVP Response Center at 703-603-3400 or email questions about their options.

[Know what international students need before getting to the U.S. ]

Prospective international students can find a list of SEVP-certified schools on the Study in the States website. This website is managed by the Department of Homeland Security, and the list of certified schools is updated every Wednesday.

International students can search for schools by name, location or type of educational program. They can also download the entire list of SEVP-certified schools.

Since schools and programs offer different program and course options, it is a student’s responsibility to ensure the school they choose is right for them and meets their expectations.

[Explore more ways to research U.S. colleges.]

You should pick a school or program based on your interests and think through other factors such as campus location, climate, school size and costs. SEVP urges international students to properly research and consult with advisers from EducationUSA, a program managed by the U.S. Department of State, before applying to and attending college in the U.S.

Have more questions? Prospective international students can visit the Study in the States website to learn more about the international student process.

More from U.S. News

College Essay Tips for English Language Learners

Solve 4 Myths About International Student Recruitment Agents

What to Know About the U.S. College Experience Before Applying

Key Tips for Selecting a Certified U.S. College originally appeared on usnews.com