The United States student visa, also known as the F-1 visa (for academic studies) or the M-1 visa (for vocational studies), is a nonimmigrant visa that allows foreign nationals to study at approved educational institutions in the United States.
The process of applying for a student visa to study in the United States involves several general steps.
Below, we share the steps involved.
Must receive acceptance from a U.S. School
Before applying for a student visa, you must first be offered admission by a US school or university that is approved by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP).
Pay the SEVIS Fee
The SEVIS charge, officially known as the SEVIS I-901 charge, is a mandated fee levied by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) for specific foreign nationals seeking to study in the US on F (academic) or M (vocational) visas.
An online application called SEVIS, or the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System, is used to monitor and track foreign students and exchange visitors while they are in the country.
Every applicant for an F or M visa must pay the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) fees. This cost can be paid online using the SEVIS website. However, remember to print the payment confirmation so you have it for your visa application.
Complete the DS-160 Form
Filling out the DS-160 Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application form is the next step. This form gathers data about you and the length of time you plan to spend in the US. After completing the form, you will receive a confirmation page with a barcode that you must print and take to your visa interview.
Schedule a Visa Interview
After completing the DS-160 form and paying the SEVIS fee, you can make an appointment for a visa interview at the closest American embassy or consulate. It’s best to book your visa interview well in advance because the waiting periods differ depending on where you live.
Gather Required Documents
Get all of the documentation ready for your visa interview. These usually involve;
- You need a passport that is valid for at least six months after the time you want to stay in the country.
- The form that your U.S. institution provides, is either the form I-20 for F visa applicants or Form DS-2019 for M visa applicants.
- Proof of payment for the SEVIS charge.
- DS-160 confirmation page.
- Receipt for payment of visa application fees.
- Academic transcripts and diplomas.
- Results from standardized tests (such as the TOEFL or IELTS).
Documentation of financial assistance for living expenses, tuition, and other study-related fees.
Attend the Visa Interview
Carry all necessary documentation to the embassy or consulate on the day of your visa interview. Your academic goals, financial status, ties to your home country, and intention to return after finishing your studies are among the topics the consular officer will interview you about. Be truthful and concise in your answers.
Receive the Visa Decision
The consular official will decide whether to grant or reject your visa application following the interview. In a few days, if your application is accepted, you will receive your passport stamped with the visa. If rejected, you might receive information on how to reapply, as well as the reasons behind the rejection.
Travel to the United States
You can schedule your travel to the United States once you have got your visa. Make sure you arrive in the United States no more than 30 days prior to the commencement of your course of study.
In conclusion, to improve your chances of having your application accepted, make sure you properly follow and adhere to any instructions provided by the U.S. embassy or consulate. You should also completely prepare for your visa interview.
