Guide to USA Student Visa Application Requirements and Process 2024

1. Determine the Type of Student Visa

The U.S. offers three types of student visas:

• F-1 Visa: For students attending an academic program or English Language Program.
• J-1 Visa: For exchange students participating in an exchange visitor program.
• M-1 Visa: For students attending a non-academic or vocational program.

2. Apply and Get Accepted by a SEVP-Approved School

Before applying for a student visa, you must be accepted by a Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-approved school in the U.S. You will receive a Form I-20 (Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status) from the school.

3. Pay the SEVIS Fee

Pay the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) fee. This fee is required for the SEVIS database, which tracks and monitors schools and exchange programs.

• F-1/M-1 Visa: $350
• J-1 Visa: $220 (for most exchange programs)

You can pay the SEVIS fee online at FMJfee.com.

4. Complete the DS-160 Form

Fill out the DS-160 form, the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application form, on the U.S. Department of State website. Make sure to save the confirmation page after submission, as you will need it for your visa interview.

5. Schedule and Attend a Visa Interview

• Schedule the Interview: Schedule an appointment for your visa interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in your home country. Wait times for interview appointments vary by location, season, and visa category.
• Prepare for the Interview: Gather the following documents for your visa interview:
• Passport valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in the U.S.
• Form DS-160 confirmation page.
• Visa application fee payment receipt.
• Passport-sized photo as per U.S. visa photo requirements.
• Form I-20 (for F-1/M-1 visas) or DS-2019 (for J-1 visas).
• SEVIS fee payment receipt.
• Financial evidence showing you have sufficient funds to cover your tuition and living expenses during your stay in the U.S.
• Academic documents (transcripts, diplomas, degrees, or certificates).
• Standardized test scores (TOEFL, IELTS, GRE, GMAT, etc.), if applicable.
• Proof of ties to your home country (e.g., family, property, job offer, etc.).
• Attend the Interview: Answer questions about your study plans, academic background, and your intentions to return to your home country after your studies. The consular officer will determine your visa eligibility.

6. Pay the Visa Application Fee

Pay the non-refundable visa application fee (MRV fee). The fee for most nonimmigrant visas, including student visas, is $160. Check the U.S. Embassy or Consulate website for payment instructions specific to your location.

7. Attend the Biometrics Appointment (if required)

In some countries, you may be required to attend a biometrics appointment to provide your fingerprints and photograph.

8. Receive Your Visa

If your visa is approved, the consular officer will inform you how your passport with the visa will be returned to you. The time required to process and return the visa varies by embassy or consulate.

9. Prepare for Departure

• Review Your Visa: Check the visa sticker in your passport to ensure all the information is correct.
• Book Your Travel: Book your travel to the U.S., ensuring you arrive no more than 30 days before your program start date as indicated on your Form I-20 or DS-2019.
• Arrange Accommodation: Arrange for accommodation in the U.S. well in advance.

10. Entering the U.S.

Upon arrival in the U.S., present the following documents to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer:

• Passport with valid visa.
• Form I-20 or DS-2019.
• Financial documents.
• SEVIS fee payment receipt.
• Any additional documents recommended by your school.

The CBP officer will review your documents and may ask questions about your study plans. If admitted, the officer will stamp your passport and issue an I-94 form indicating your status and authorized period of stay.

By following these steps, you will be well-prepared to navigate the USA student visa application process for 2024.