The Student Visa Process
Applying for a U.S. student visa involves several key steps, primarily for the F-1 visa, which is designated for full-time academic students. Here’s an overview of the process:
Before applying for a student visa, you must be accepted by a U.S. school certified by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP). All schools on this website are government approved. When an institution accepts you, it will issue a Form I-20, “Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status,” which is essential for your visa application.
After receiving your Form I-20, you will pay the SEVIS I-901 fee, which supports the maintenance of your information in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS). You must pay this fee before you can proceed with your visa application.
Next, you will complete the DS-160 form, the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application. This form collects your personal information and details about your intended stay in the U.S. After submission, you will receive a confirmation page, which you must print and bring to your visa interview.
Schedule an appointment for a visa interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate in your home country. During the interview, a consular officer will assess your application and determine your eligibility for a student visa. Most interviews take only a few minutes. Be prepared to discuss your academic plans, financial means, and intentions to return to your home country after your studies.
For your visa interview, gather and bring the following documents:
You may be asked to present additional documents. Consult the specific requirements of the U.S. embassy or consulate where your interview will take place.
If your visa is approved, it will be stamped in your passport. You are permitted to enter the United States up to 30 days before the start date listed on your Form I-20. Upon arrival, present your visa and Form I-20 to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection officer at the port of entry.
More information: Study in the States.