The United States of America is often called the land of opportunities. No wonder many people want to immigrate to this vast country for leisure, work, or studies. Those looking to study higher education in the United States will be glad to know that there is a substantial international student community, with almost a million international students enrolled at various U.S. universities and colleges.
However, to be part of this community, you need to meet several requirements, the most important of which is the student visa. Depending on the type of institution and course of study, you will be required to obtain either an F, J, or M visa. The paperwork and processes of obtaining this visa type can seem daunting, but don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.
Applying for a student visa in this country requires adequate preparation, including knowing which documents are needed and preparing for the interview. This essential guide will walk you through the step-by-step process of getting your U.S. student visa so you can turn your American dream into a reality.
Different Categories of U.S. Student Visa
There are different types of student visas for international students planning to study in the United States, depending on the institution and program of study. Here are the three distinct categories of visas for international students in the country:
- F or F-1 Visa – This visa allows international students to study at any accredited university or college in the USA and any accredited English language training institute.
- M Visa – This visa allows international students to pursue studies at vocational institutes or recognized non-academic institutions in the USA.
- J Visa – This visa is for international high school or university students participating in an exchange program in the USA.
Steps on Applying for a U.S. Student Visa
Step 1. Obtain Admission into a U.S. University
You must apply to and be accepted into a SEVP-approved school in the United States. This step will help you obtain either the Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status (Form I-20) or the Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor Status (Form DS-2019). These forms are issued by the U.S. school or exchange program you plan to attend. They can also confirm your acceptance and details of your course of study.
Step 2. Complete the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application
Then, you’ll fill out an online nonimmigrant visa application, Form DS-160. When completing the application, be very thorough and honest in providing the requested details about your identity, purpose of travel, course of study, proof of funds, etc. Any discrepancies or false information could lead to a denial of your student visa.
The online application process should take you around one and a half hours to complete. Once you’re done with the application, remember to print the confirmation page which will be required during your visa interview,
Step 3. Pay the Application and SEVIS Fee
Next, you’ll need to pay $185 for the visa application and the I-901 Student and Exchange Visitor Information System or SEVIS fee of $350 for F or M visa applicants. On the other hand, J visa applicants must pay $220 for this fee. It covers the cost of the Student and Exchange Visitor Program or SEVP, which maintains records of non-immigrant students and exchange visitors.
You can pay this fee online, by mail, or by Western Union. Ensure your I-20 or DS-2019 form is handy, as you’ll need their information to process your payment.
Step 4. Schedule Your Interview
Once you’ve submitted Form DS-160, you’ll need to schedule an appointment for a visa interview at your nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. At the appointment, a consular officer will interview you to determine your eligibility for a student visa. Be prepared to provide documents like:
- Your passport
- I-20 or DS-2019 form
- SEVIS fee payment receipt
- Admission letter from your U.S. school
- Transcripts and diplomas from previous schools
- Proof of financial support for your studies
You may be asked for more documents to support your application and prove that not only will you be able to support yourself during the study period, but you will also return to your home country after your studies.
Step 5. Prepare for and Attend Your Interview
It’s normal to feel nervous about your visa interview, but going in prepared will help you feel more at ease. Review the details of your educational plans, proof of funding, and other documents. Be ready to explain why you chose your school and course of study. Make eye contact to appear confident, speak clearly, and keep your answers concise and honest.
To help you prepare for the interview, you can find some sample questions that you can think about your answers for beforehand. That way, you can say your prepared answers when the day of the interview comes without having to worry about not saying the “correct” answers because you are nervous.
Documents Needed for a U.S. Student Visa
Several more documents are required to support your U.S. visa application. Let’s examine them in detail below.
| REQUIRED DOCUMENTS |
REQUIREMENT DETAILS |
| University Acceptance Letter |
Your acceptance letter, accompanied by Form I-20 from the school you plan to attend, certifies your eligibility as a non-immigrant student. This letter will prove you’ve been accepted into an approved program of study in the United States. Note that the Student and Exchange Visitor Program or SEVP needs to approve the school or institution. |
| Proof of Financial Support |
This proof shows you have sufficient funds to cover your tuition and living expenses while studying in the United States. Documents, including bank statements, affidavits of support, and scholarship letters, are all acceptable. |
| Passport |
You must ensure your passport is valid for at least six months after your intended entry into the United States. If it has nearly or already expired, immediately renew your passport before applying for your student visa. |
| 2×2 Photo |
Submit a front-facing photo of yourself measuring 2×2 inches with a plain white or off-white background. The photo must be no more than six months old to indicate your most current appearance. It should also be sized according to the U.S. visa photo requirements. |
| DS-160 Application Form |
You need to access Form DS-160, the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application. You must submit this form online and bring a printed copy to your visa interview. |
| Travel Documents |
Ensure you have travel documents, such as ticket reservations, and other study-related requirements, such as health insurance. Note that you must wait for your visa confirmation before paying for your travel ticket. |
| Additional Documentation (if requested) |
The embassy or consular officer reviewing your application may request additional documents, such as proof of English proficiency, academic documents like transcripts, and proof that you’ll leave the USA upon completing your study program. |
FAQs: Student Visa Applications for the USA
How Much Money Do You Need for a U.S. Student Visa?
Before applying for your US student visa, you must understand the financial obligation of the visa application process. First, there is a non-refundable fee of $185 for the visa application processing. You must obtain a receipt after payment, which is necessary during your student visa interview. Once accepted into a SEVP-approved institution, an I-901 fee of $220 or $350 should cover your complete registration in the SEVIS.
In summary, you must first be accepted to a SEVP-approved school, ensure you have all the required documentation, and pay the necessary fees to move to the next stage. Finally, you must schedule and attend a visa interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate. Following these essential steps will set you on the path to obtaining your U.S. student visa.
We hope this article on how to apply for a student visa in the U.S. was helpful. If you’re interested in studying in the United States, make sure to check out the Study in the USA and the Available Programs for International Students in the USA sections!
