Student Visa to the US
Obtaining a student visa to study in the United States is quite a drawn out process. It helps to understand that there are two different types of student visas and each has its own requirements.
- F-1 visa for academic and language studies
- M-1 visa for vocational studies
Visa Application Procedure:
Those intending to apply for either student visa type must first apply to a SEVP (Student and Exchange Visitor Program) certified school.
Form I-20 and SEVIS 1-901
On acceptance the school will issue the applicant with Form I-20 which is a paper record of his or her information in the SEVIS database.
The details on the Form I-20 must match the prospective student’s passport and once this is verified then the student should proceed to pay the SEVIS I-90 fee here.
A completed I-20 form is necessary in order to pay the SEVIS I-901 fee and the receipt of this payment will be necessary to finalize your visa. Please note that when paying this fee online you should ensure that you have a working printer attached to the computer so that you may receive the receipt immediately.
If paying offline then receipt of your SEVIA 1-901 fee can take up to two weeks.
Form 1-20A-B or FORM I-20M-N
If the student is applying for an F-1 visa then he or she has to complete and submit form I-20A-B, Certificate of Eligibility for Non-immigrant (F-1) Student Status-For Academic and Language Students
M-1 visa applicants need to complete and submit Form I-20M-N, Certificate of Eligibility for Non-immigrant (M-1) Student Status for Vocational Students
Forms DS-156 and DS-158
The Form DS-156 (Non-Immigrant Visa Application) and the Form DS-158 (Contact Information and Work History for Non-Immigrant Visa Applicant) are available electronically. Both need to be completed and submitted. Some applicants will also be required to complete and sign Form DS-157 (Supplemental Non-Immigrant Visa Application). A separate form is needed for children, even if they are included in a parent's passport.
Interview at Embassy or Consulate
All applicants must attend an interview at the US embassy or Consulate. Waiting times vary from country so apply as early as possible.
Valid Passport
A passport is required and it must have a validity date which extends a minimum of six months beyond the end of stay in the United States (unless there are country-specific exemptions).
Photograph: One (1) 2x2 photograph.
Fees: A visa application fee and, if applicable, a visa issuance fee. A separate SEVIS I-901 fee receipt is also necessary.
Additional Requirements
The U.S. consulate may also require:
- Transcripts and diplomas from previous institutions
- Standardized tests scores as required by the U.S. educational institution (TOEFL, SAT, GMAT, GRE, etc.)
- Financial evidence to show that you or your sponsors have enough funds to cover your educational and living expenses during your period of study.
For additional information visit the U.S. Bureau of Consular Affairs