
Steps to Applying for a U.S. Student Visa.
- 1. Apply for—and be admitted to—an American university. In order to apply for your U.S. student visa, you must first apply to and be accepted by a U.S.
- 2. Obtain a Form I-20 from your college or university.
- 3. Submit the I-901 SEVIS Fee payment.
- 4. Identify the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
- 5. Complete the Form DS-160 Visa Application.
Can you work in the USA with a student visa?
Your US student visa allows you to work on-campus up to 20 hours per week when school is in session and full-time during school break periods (up to 40 hours per week). On-campus employment is defined as work that takes place on campus, or at an off-campus location that is affiliated with the school.
What are the requirements for a student visa?
Students enrolled in non-academic or occupational courses must apply for an M-1 visa. An F-1 visa is required for students enrolled in academic courses at a recognised school to earn a degree. For both the visas, there is a set of documents as well as an interview.
How early should I apply for the visa?
This is because it can take up to six weeks to get an appointment at the US Embassy for a visa. The answer is - as early as possible. And so it is okay to apply for a visa 4–5 months before the intended day of travel. Most consular officers appreciate this and they may ask you for the reason for applying so early.
Is there an age limit for getting a student visa?
There is no age limit to study in United State and you will need to obtain a place in US educational institution, who will then issue you a letter (I-20) offering you a firm place in the course you wish to study. Once you have your I-20 letter you can apply for F1 visa.

How much does a student visa cost?
An F1 visa allows international students to study full time at a Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) approved university in the United States. F1 visa costs are around $510 per application, and you should apply at least three months before your course start date. Part-time work is very restricted on an F1 visa.
How long does it take to get a student visa?
Student (F and M) visas for new students can be issued up to 120 days in advance of the start date for a course of study. Waiting times to for your visa appointment vary wildly between countries. You could get it in 3 days or in 3 months, depending on the case. The COVID-19 crisis complicates waiting times even more.
Is it hard to get a student visa?
It is not difficult to get a student visa for the USA from India, but you must follow all student visa requirements for the USA from India and give yourself plenty of time to complete and submit your paperwork.
Can I apply for student visa myself?
Yes, you can apply for a student visa without agency. I recommend you fill Online Non-immigrant Visa Application, Form DS-160 by yourself. 2) Print the confirmation application form and bring to your interview.
How long do student visas last?
A B-1/B-2 visa holder cannot be granted permanent residence, but can apply for a green card while holding this visa and it potentially offers another way for international student work in US after graduation. The maximum amount of time issued for this visa is 180 days and allows multiple entries into the US.
Why should you be given a student visa?
The purpose behind the F1 visa interview is that the consular officer wants to know more about you as an applicant aside of what the documents say about you and understand if you wish to enter the United States to study for real, or if there is any other reason behind their application.
Why do student visas get rejected?
Common Reasons behind Student Visa Rejection Lack of sufficient financial funds or proofs to support foreign education. The inability of confirming a necessary return to India after completion of education. Incorrect or false documents. Inadequate language or communication skills.
Who is eligible for student visa?
F-1 Visa Eligibility You must be enrolled as a full-time student at the institution. You must be proficient in English or be enrolled in courses leading to English proficiency. Have proof of sufficient financial funds to support study in the United States.
Which country give easily student visa?
A: Frankly speaking, obtaining a student visa has never been an easy process no matter which country you are targeting, however, the options like Canada, Australia, UK, USA, and New Zealand can help you with easy attainment of student visa if you apply with proper guidance and extensive support.
Which visa is best for student?
An F1 visa is issued to students who are attending an academic program or English Language Program. F1 visas are by far the most common form of international student visa in the U.S. F1 students must maintain the minimum course load for full-time student status.
How much money is required for visa?
A short-term tourist visa costs 60 euros or Rs 5,095 at the current exchange rate. A non-immigrant tourist visa to the USA costs USD 160 for an Indian passport holder. At the current consular exchange rate, that is Rs 11,840. The visa is a multiple-entry one and is valid for 10 years.
How does a student visa work?
F-1 Student Visa The F-1 Visa (Academic Student) allows you to enter the United States as a full-time student at an accredited college, university, seminary, conservatory, academic high school, elementary school, or other academic institution or in a language training program.
How long does it take to get a student visa in 2022?
Your student visa in the United States will on average take 3 days to a few weeks long. Learn more about US Visa Processing Times in 2022.
What is the processing time for Australian student visa?
Candidates looking to study in Australia would be relieved to know that 75% of student visa applications are processed in under 28 days. While 90% of the Australian student visas are processed in under 48 days.
What is the process of student visa in New Zealand?
To qualify for a student visa, you'll need: to be accepted for a course at an education institute approved by the Ministry of Education or the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) money for your tuition fees or proof that you have a scholarship that pays your fees.
How long does New Zealand student visa take?
Student visasVisa50% of applications completed within:90% of applications completed within:Fee Paying Student27 days63 daysVariation of conditions on a student visa17 days37 daysAug 1, 2022
How to apply for a student visa?
1. Apply for—and be admitted to—an American university. In order to apply for your U.S. student visa, you must first apply to and be accepted by a U.S. college or university.
What is the fee for a student visa?
At a cost of $200 for F-1 and M-1 visa applica nts, this fee is required of all student visa applicants and is used to cover the costs of processing each application.
How much does it cost to get a visa after an interview?
If your embassy does require you to pay beforehand, be sure to bring proof of payment to your actual interview. This fee is $160.
Where to start preparation for visa interview?
Since this interview must take place at a U.S. embassy or consulate in your home country , you should start this preparation by identifying the location that is closest to you. Depending on your country or region, the embassy may be a significant distance from your home, so you should choose a location that you know you will be able to reach for your interview.
What is an I-20 form?
Upon acceptance to a university, international students seeking their F-1 visa will receive a Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status (typically referred to as a Form I-20) from their school.
How early can I get a visa?
You must receive your visa before your program officially starts, but the earliest that you can receive your visa is 120 days prior to the program’s official start date. 2. Obtain a Form I-20 from your college or university.
What are the different types of student visas?
student visas available to international students, each of which is better suited to different unique circumstances: The F-1 visa, the M-1 visa, and the J-1 Visa.
Apply For Your Student Visa
You've now reached Step 4! Applying for your U.S. student visa. This next step will cover F, J and M student visa types.
Good to Know
Because visa interviews are short, do your best to explain why you want to study in the United States, how you plan to support yourself while in school, and what your plans are for when your studies are finished.
How Do I Apply for a Student Visa?
Once a Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-certified college, university, or English language program accepts you, the school will send you an application for an F1 visa, or Form I-20. Exchange students that need J1 visas will get a DS-2019 Form from the U.S. government or the agency sponsoring their visit. This allows them to apply for the J1 visa. The Form I-20 comes in Form I-20A-B for academic students and Form I-20M-N for English language and vocational students. Ideally, you should begin the visa process three to five months before the start of the academic program.
What Is a Student Visa?
A student visa is a government-issued visa that allows international students to study in a foreign country. In the United States, students can get F1, J1, or M1 visas. The F1 and J1 visas allow students to study and work. The M1 visa only allows them to study. However, the F1 and J1 visas only guarantee employment as a teaching assistant, research assistant, or other on-campus work.
How Do I Fund or Prove Financial Support for a Visa?
Applicants must have evidence of current financial resources. Future potential earnings do not qualify. Make sure you've planned for enough money, short-term and long-term, before applying for an M1 visa.
What to do if your passport expires?
If your passport expires during your visa, keep the old passport with the visa page. This allows you to travel freely in the U.S. when you obtain a new passport. Student visa holders should also review other entry requirements regarding agricultural goods, food, and prohibited products, as outlined on the Department of Homeland Security website and the CBP website.
What is an M1 visa?
M1 visas are for students who want nonacademic or vocational schooling. Unlike with the F1 and J1 visas, M1 visa holders cannot be employed during their studies. Because of the lack of a job, M1 visa applicants must prove they have the money to pay for all tuition and living expenses during their stay.
What is a visa interview?
The interview is for a visa officer to determine if you're eligible for a student visa and which one.
How much is the visa fee for a student?
The visa application fee is also known as a Machine Readable Visa Fee, or MRV fee. For F1 and M1 student visas, it's $200. For J1 visas, it's $180.
What are the different types of student visas?
The United States government offers three student visa types including F, J, and M. F Student Visa: for study at an accredited U.S. college or university or to study English at an English language institute. Before you can apply for an F, J, or M student visa, you must first apply and be accepted by a U.S.
What is the responsibility of the State Department for international student visa?
The State Department is responsible for the visa application process and issuing the visa. Once a visa holder arrives in the United States, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security then takes over as the responsible agency for entry into the country, as well as issuing and enforcing international student regulations. Please read information from all three sources above before applying for a U.S. student visa. The sites address employment , maintaining your status, and other vital topics.
Who is responsible for visa application?
The State Department is responsible for the visa application process and issuing the visa. Once a visa holder arrives in the United States, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security then takes over as the responsible agency for entry into the country, as well as issuing and enforcing international student regulations.
Where do I get my I-20 form?
Once accepted at an SEVP-certified school, you will receive a Form I-20 or DS-2019 from the institution's international student office to present when you apply for your student visa. Once you receive your form, visit:
How to apply for an international student visa?
You must apply for your international student visa through your nearest US embassy or consulate (ideally, in the city or region in which you live). You can search for US embassies and consulates online through the US Department of State.
When Should You Apply for a US Student Visa?
You may only apply for a student visa after you’ve applied for and been accepted to an SEVP-approved school. (SEVP stands for the Student Exchange and Visitor Program. All US schools that enroll F-1 and/or M-1 students must be certified by this program.) Once you’ve secured admission to the school you wish to attend, you can begin the visa application process.
What Is a US Student Visa? Do You Need One?
In order to legally attend school in the US, all international applicants — that is , those without US citizenship or permanent residence — must first obtain a US student visa. This international student visa allows you to reside temporarily in the US in order to attend an approved school, language program, or academic exchange program.
What happens if you get rejected for a student visa?
If your application for a student visa is rejected, your embassy will tell you why. Unfortunately, you cannot get your money back in the case of a rejection. Moreover, embassies will not reevaluate visa applications, so if you are rejected, you must repeat the process above in order to reapply for a student visa.
What is the last step in the visa process?
The last big step in the visa process is the interview. This interview will be the deciding factor as to whether you will receive a US student visa or not.
What are the three types of visas for international students?
The three main visa types for international students are the F-1 visa, the M-1 visa, and the J-1 visa. Students who intend to study full-time in a US undergraduate or graduate program will most likely apply for an F-1 visa.
How long do you have to take a passport photo to get a visa?
As part of your application, you must submit a recent (within the past six months) passport-style photograph. This will be your visa photograph, which you will later upload and submit with your online visa application.
1. What visa do I need to study in the USA?
There are three US student visas, each of which is given depending on what your situation is. The most common is the F1 Visa. This is for students who will be studying a full-time course. For regular undergrad and postgrad students, this is normally the visa that you should apply for.
2. When should I apply for my US student visa?
You should start applying for your visa no later than 3 months before your course of study starts. Ideally, you should actually begin your visa application process around 5 months ahead of time, as there are quite a few steps to take and quite a few documents to secure before you can actually apply.
3. US study visa processing time
Once you’ve completed your application, the processing time is between 3 and 5 weeks. After your visa has been approved, your country’s US consulate will deliver it to you within 2 or 3 working days (depending on where you are based).
4. What documents do I need to apply for a US student visa?
Okay, here’s where the work starts! There are quite a few documents for you to collect before applying for your student visa.
5. How much does it cost?
The cost of a US student visa includes both an application / processing fee and the SEVIS fee (Student & Exchange Visitor Information System). Depending on the visa, costs can change a little, but here’s an approximate guide:
6. Where to apply for a US student visa
Here’s where some confusion begins, as the place to apply and the order of application events can change depending on your own US Embassy or consulate.
7. How to apply for a US Student Visa: Step by step
Register in SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) as soon as you’ve been accepted by your university and received your I-20 form. You’ll have to pay a fee (SEVIS I-901), so make sure to keep the receipt for later -- you’ll need it!
How long does it take to get a visa decision?
How long it takes to get a decision. You’ll usually get a decision within 3 weeks. If you need to give your biometric information at a visa application centre, you may be able to pay to get a faster decision. Check if your visa application centre offers faster decisions and other services.
How to withdraw a UKVI application?
You can ask to withdraw your application by contacting UKVI. Your fee will only be refunded if UKVI has not started processing your application.
What is a student credit card?
A student credit card is a type of credit card designed and marketed towards students and recent graduates by banks and financial institutions. Student credit cards typically have a lower credit limit and sometimes have higher credit approval rates for students with little to no credit history and limited incomes. Student credit cards may require a co-signer if you are under the age of 21.
What are the benefits of a student card?
Student benefits and resources: As a student cardholder, you may be able to participate in special perks for college students, such as exclusive cash back reward programs that reward high GPAs or positive payment habits.
Why is it important to use a credit card before applying?
Before applying and using a student credit card, it's important to understand how the application process works (you may need a co-signer) and how you plan on keeping up with payments to avoid debt. When used responsibly, a credit card can help college students establish and build their credit scores while benefiting from reward programs ...
What are the security features of a student credit card?
Security features: Student credit cards may also be equipped with useful protections and features, such as fraud protection or overdraft protection when you set up automatic payments from your debit card or checking account.
Why do college students need credit cards?
A student credit card could help college students make convenient purchases and establish credit. Before using your credit card for purchases, it's important to understand how interest works and how long it may take you to pay down your balances.
Do student credit cards waive fees?
Some student credit cards may waive annual fees and may offer reward programs that allow you to earn points and cash back on certain purchases. When researching a student credit card, the best student credit cards may have some of the following features and benefits:
What determines the type of student visa you need?
Your course of study, the school you plan to attend, or the exchange program you will be with will determine the type of student visa you will need.
What is transit C visa?
Transit C visa classification is for foreign nationals traveling through the U.S. to another country and stopping briefly in the U.S. as part of their travel to the next foreign destination.
What is ESTA in travel?
Fill out the (ESTA) online application. ESTA determines the eligibility of a visitor to travel to the U.S. under the VWP.
What is an F-1 visa?
F-1 visa classification is for a full-time international student pursuing academic studies.
What happens if you violate your work visa?
If you violate the terms of your work visa, it could be revoked. You could be deported, arrested, or denied re-entry into the U.S.
Do you need an authorization to travel under VWP?
If you plan to visit the U.S. under the VWP, you must get an approved travel authorization prior to your trip. Authorization approvals are determined using the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) .
Can an international student apply for a student visa?
An international student can apply for a student or exchange visitor visa only after being accepted by a school certified in the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP). Students’ records are kept in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS). Learn more about SEVP and SEVIS, and about the SEVIS fee.
