Guide To The US Student Visa Process

Your US Student Visa is just a few clicks away. Congratulations on securing your offer letter from a US university. As the next step, you must apply for a US student visa. A student visa is a legal document stating your purpose in the country. Once you’ve applied for a US student visa, you will be called for a visa interview, and if everything goes in your favor, you’ll receive your US student visa. Keep reading to learn all about the US student visa process. 

US Student Visa Highlights 

About US Student Visa 

International students from all over the world are welcomed at top US universities. The US Department of State allows international students to apply for a US student visa at their respective regional centers. The US Student Visa is also known as the F1 Student Visa.   

The F1 student visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows non-US students to study at US universities certified by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP). It is one of the most famous student visas for students planning to study in the USA. Students can only apply for their F1 visa after the university accepts their application.  

The F1 student visa is only valid for up to 5 years. However, this duration primarily depends on the course length. The visa expiration date will be listed on the I-20 form provided by the university. Students are expected to earn their degrees before the listed expiration date.   

The table below highlights the types of US Student Visas.  

Students must visit their country’s US Embassy websites to apply for a US student visa. The application process may vary for each country. You must complete all the formalities and submit the necessary documents to submit your visa application successfully.   

The table below highlights the types of US Student Visas. 

How to Apply for US Student Visa? 

To apply for a US student visa, students must visit their country’s US Embassy websites. The application process may vary for each country. You must fill out all the formalities and submit necessary documents to successfully submit your visa application.  

After completing your application: 

Complete the Form DS-160 at https://ceac.state.gov/genniv/. This form will take 90 minutes to complete. Once the form is submitted, you must upload your latest passport size photograph and schedule your interview 

Visa Interview 

A US student visa generally requires an interview. It is at the discretion of the counselor officer. However, there can be exceptions too: 

Students must schedule their visa interviews at the US Embassy or Consulate in their home country. In some cases, students are allowed to schedule a visa interview from another country. However, the process may be challenging in such a case, as it will be hard for students to qualify for a visa outside their home country. 

Documents Required 

Here are all the documents required before and after scheduling your visa interview. 

Before Applying: 

• Valid Passport (valid for at least 6 months beyond your stay). 
• Form I-20 from a SEVP-approved school. 
• Financial Evidence (a minimum of $10,000 bank balance). 
• English Proficiency Scores (IELTS/PTE/ DUOLINGO/ TOEFL). 
• SEVIS I-901 Fee Payment Receipt. 

After Applying: 

• DS-160 Confirmation Page (online non-immigrant visa application). 
• Visa Application Fee Receipt. 
• Passport Photos (meeting US photo requirements). 
• Visa Interview Appointment Letter. 

Attend Your Visa Interview 

Applicants are interviewed by a consular officer. He/ she will assess whether you qualify for a US student visa. Students must ensure that they meet all academic and professional requirements stated under US law.  

As part of the application process, your biometrics (digital fingerprint scans) will be submitted. Once the interview is complete, the consular officer will determine whether your application requires any official processing. You will be informed in such a case. 

After your visa is approved, you can pay the visa issuance fee. This fee can vary from $185 to $315, depending on your nationality. 

Important Details About Student Visa 

Students must not make travel plans or buy tickets until their visa is issued. You can check the Form I-765 Work Authorization Instructions on the USCIS website to check for a working permit in the US during your stay. 

• Check the SEVP website to view details about temporary break from your studies. If you are outside the US and your visa is still valid, you must consult your Designated School Officials.  
• Your spouse and minor children can also apply for F-2or M-2 visas if they intend to stay with you during your study. 
• Your minor children are eligible to study at US schools as long as your visa is valid. 
• Your visa will still be valid if your passport expires. It will be valid until its expiration date unless canceled or revoked.