Your Complete Guide to Getting a U.S. Student Visa
Once you’ve been accepted into your desired course, the next step is to get a U.S. student visa, which allows you to study in the country.
Every year, lots of students from all over the world go to the U.S. for education. The U.S. has many famous schools, and most of them have great student communities.
Getting your study visa might seem a bit overwhelming at first because of all the requirements and paperwork. But it’s not too hard if you take it step by step.
This guide is here to help you understand what a visa is, the different types, and how to apply. It’s a simple explanation to help you get ready to start your studies in the U.S.
What is a US student visa
A student visa is a permission document issued by the U.S. Government, allowing foreign students to study in the country. Hence, any student coming from abroad for education must obtain a visa to enter the U.S. legally.
It’s crucial to be well-prepared for your visa application, allowing you to concentrate on preparing for your journey abroad. Therefore, it’s recommended to initiate the visa application process at least 3–5 months before your planned departure. Starting early provides a buffer to address any potential issues that may arise.
Which visa is required for my studies?
At present, you have three distinct visa choices when relocating to the U.S. for advanced studies. The specific visa you require is contingent on factors such as your eligibility and the duration of your academic program.
Here, we offer an overview of the various U.S. visa options. Nevertheless, eligibility criteria may differ based on your specific course and educational institution. If you are uncertain about the required visa, it’s advisable to verify with your university for accurate guidance.
F1 student visa
If your weekly study commitment exceeds 18 hours, you are required to obtain an F-1 student visa. This applies to all standard undergraduate and postgraduate programs.
However, if you intend to have your spouse or children accompany you, a distinct F-2 visa application is necessary for them. It’s important to note that dependents with an F-2 visa can join you in the U.S. but are not permitted to engage in employment activities during their stay.
J1 exchange visitor visa
If you’re planning to take a short vocational course that lasts no more than 10 months, you’ll need to get a J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa.
In this situation, your family can come with you using a J-2 visa, and they are allowed to work in the USA after getting permission from the authorities.
M1 student visa
If you are going to study a non-academic or a vocational course you need to get an M1 student visa. The visa will be time-stamped, and it is valid only for the duration of your course.
What is the fee for a visa?
Getting a student visa involves paying two kinds of fees: one for SEVIS and one for processing the visa application. The exact cost depends on the type of visa you’re applying for.
*For an F1 Student Visa, you’ll pay $350 for SEVIS and an additional $160 for the visa application.
*If you’re going for a J1 Exchange Visitor visa, the SEVIS Fee is $220, and the visa application fee is $160.
*If it’s an M1 Student Visa you’re after, the SEVIS Fee is $350, and the visa application fee is $160.
Remember, these fees might change a little based on the type of visa.
How to apply for a US student visa
Applying for a U.S. student visa involves several steps. Here is a general guide for the process:
Receive Acceptance from a U.S. School:
- Before applying for a student visa, you need to be accepted into a U.S. school that is approved by the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS).
Pay the SEVIS Fee:
- After receiving acceptance, pay the SEVIS fee online. You will need the SEVIS ID from your Form I-20 (for F or M visas) or DS-2019 (for J visas) to complete this step.
Complete the DS-160 Form:
- Fill out the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application (Form DS-160) on the U.S. Department of State’s Consular Electronic Application Center.
Pay the Visa Application Fee:
- Pay the non-refundable visa application fee. Payment methods and amounts can vary, so check the U.S. embassy or consulate website for specific details.
Schedule a Visa Interview:
- Schedule a visa interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate. Wait times for interview appointments can vary, so plan ahead and schedule the interview well in advance.
Gather Required Documents:
- Prepare the necessary documents, including the DS-160 confirmation page, SEVIS payment receipt, Form I-20 or DS-2019, passport-sized photos, proof of financial support, and any other documents required by the embassy or consulate.
Attend the Visa Interview:
- Attend the visa interview at the scheduled time. Be prepared to discuss your academic plans, financial situation, and ties to your home country.
Biometric Information (if applicable):
- Some applicants may need to provide biometric information, such as fingerprints. Follow the instructions provided by the embassy or consulate.
Wait for Visa Processing:
- After the interview, wait for the consular officer’s decision on your visa application. Processing times can vary.
Receive Visa and Travel to the U.S.:
- If approved, your passport will be stamped with the U.S. visa. Review the visa to ensure accuracy. Travel to the U.S. within the visa’s validity period.
Always check the specific requirements and procedures of the U.S. embassy or consulate where you plan to apply, as they may have additional guidelines. Additionally, be aware that visa policies and procedures can change, so refer to the official sources for the most up-to-date information.
Checklist
Before applying for your student visa, there’s a list of documents you’ll need to gather. The specific documents required might vary based on the particular visa type and your circumstances.
In most instances, you’ll likely need the following documents for your visa application:
A passport with a validity of at least 6 months beyond your planned stay in the USA. If your passport is expiring soon, you’ll need to renew it.
University I-20 form, a standard document confirming your acceptance into a full-time university course in the US.
A printout of the online visa application form (DS-160) that you filled out.
Visa interview appointment letter. Once you complete the DS-160 form, you’ll be directed to schedule an appointment at the nearest US consulate.
Original mark sheets, certificates, and transcripts, providing evidence of your high school grades.
Original English language assessment test certificate or scorecard. Acceptable certifications may include GRE, GMAT, TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo.
Bank statements for the last three years, demonstrating that you have sufficient funds to support your stay in the US. If a parent or guardian is financially supporting you, include copies of their bank statements. If you’re considering financial aid, explore our guide on how to apply for a scholarship to study abroad.
Once your visa application is complete and approved, you’re allowed to enter the country only 30 days before your course starts. However, in some cases, you may receive your visa up to 120 days in advance if you need to arrive earlier.