F-1 student visa
Receive Acceptance from a SEVP-Certified School
You must first be accepted into a Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-certified school in the USA. This can be a university, college, high school, private elementary school, seminary, conservatory, or language training program.
Pay the SEVIS Fee
Once accepted by the SEVP-certified school, you’ll need to pay the SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) fee. This fee supports the administration and maintenance of the SEVIS database. You can pay the SEVIS fee online through the SEVP website.
Complete the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application (DS-160)
Fill out the DS-160 form online, which is the standard nonimmigrant visa application form for temporary stays in the USA. Be sure to answer all questions accurately and truthfully.
Schedule a Visa Interview
After completing the DS-160 form, schedule an interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate in your home country. Wait times for interview appointments can vary, so it’s best to schedule your appointment as soon as possible.
Pay the Visa Application Fee
Pay the non-refundable visa application fee, which is required for all visa applicants. The fee amount may vary depending on your country of residence and can be paid through various methods accepted by the embassy or consulate.
Prepare Required Documents
Gather the necessary documents for your visa interview. These typically include:
- A valid passport
- Form DS-160 confirmation page
- SEVIS fee payment receipt (Form I-901)
- Receipt of visa application fee payment
- Form I-20 (Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status), issued by the SEVP-certified school
- Proof of financial ability to cover tuition, living expenses, and other costs during your stay in the USA
- Academic transcripts, diplomas, degrees, or certificates from previous schools attended
- Standardized test scores (such as TOEFL or IELTS for English proficiency)
- Any additional documents requested by the embassy or consulate
Attend the Visa Interview
On the day of your scheduled interview, arrive at the embassy or consulate on time and bring all required documents. Be prepared to answer questions about your intended course of study, ties to your home country, and your plans after completing your studies in the USA.
Receive Decision
After the interview, you will be informed whether your visa application has been approved, denied, or requires further administrative processing. If approved, your passport with the F-1 visa stamp will be returned to you.
Travel to the USA
Once you receive your F-1 visa, you can make travel arrangements to the USA. Make sure to enter the country no earlier than 30 days before the start date of your program, and be prepared to present your visa and other relevant documents to the immigration officer upon arrival.
Maintain F-1 Status
Once in the USA, it’s important to maintain your F-1 student status by following all regulations and requirements set by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and your designated school official (DSO). This includes enrolling in a full course of study, reporting any changes in your academic or personal information, and complying with any employment restrictions.
Remember, the process and requirements for obtaining an F-1 student visa can vary depending on individual circumstances and changes in immigration policies. It’s advisable to consult the official website of the U.S. Department of State or seek guidance from your designated school official (DSO) for the most accurate and up-to-date information.