Applying for a student visa to the United States can be a complex process, but with the right guidance and preparation, it can be a smooth and successful experience. Here's a detailed guide on how to apply for an American student visa:
Step 1: Apply to and be accepted by a Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-approved school in the US
The first step in applying for a US student visa is to apply to and be accepted by a SEVP-approved school in the US. You can find a list of SEVP-approved schools on the US Department of Homeland Security's website.
Once you have been accepted to a SEVP-approved school, you will receive a Form I-20, Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status. This form is required to apply for a student visa.
Step 2: Pay the SEVIS I-901 fee
Before you can apply for a student visa, you must pay the SEVIS I-901 fee. This fee is used to support the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS), a database that tracks international students and exchange visitors in the US.
You can pay the SEVIS I-901 fee online or by mail. To pay the fee online, you will need to create a SEVIS account and enter your Form I-20 number. To pay the fee by mail, you will need to send a money order or check to the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
Step 3: Complete the online nonimmigrant visa application (Form DS-160)
Once you have paid the SEVIS I-901 fee, you can complete the online nonimmigrant visa application (Form DS-160). You will need to provide information about yourself, your family, your education, and your travel plans.
Step 4: Schedule a visa interview
After you have completed the Form DS-160, you will need to schedule a visa interview at a US embassy or consulate. You can schedule your interview online or by phone.
Step 5: Attend your visa interview
On the day of your visa interview, you will need to bring the following documents:
- A valid passport
- A printed copy of your Form DS-160 confirmation page
- A Form I-20
- Evidence of financial support
- A passport-sized photo
The consular officer will ask you questions about your travel plans and your reasons for wanting to study in the US. The consular officer will also review your documents.
If your visa application is approved, you will be issued a student visa. You can then travel to the US to begin your studies.
Additional tips for applying for a US student visa
- Start the application process early. It can take several weeks or months to get a student visa.
- Be prepared to answer questions about your travel plans and your reasons for wanting to study in the US.
- Make sure to have all of the required documents on the day of your visa interview.
- Be polite and respectful to the consular officer.