Do you have big dreams of studying in the land of Hollywood and Harvard? Let’s tackle that US student visa process together!
Studying in the US is the most amazing opportunity for Indian students if they are looking for a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Ph. D. The USA has many top-ranked universities, and some of them are one of the oldest universities in the world.
And the USA student visa process is complex. You need to follow several steps to get the visa. But don’t worry! With this blog, you will understand the process of a US student Visa application, the documents required for the process, the costs involved, and tips to keep in mind.
Step-by-step Guide to the US Student Visa Process
Before packing your bags to seek your dream of studying abroad in the US, you need to understand the process of visa application. These are the steps involved in a US student visa process:
- Choose the right Visa type
If you are an Indian student, the best visa you can apply for is the F-1 Visa. If you are applying for an academic program at a US university, you will apply for an F-1 Visa. But depending on the course, you might need to apply for an M or J visa also.
- Apply to a SEVP-Approved School
To apply for a USA student visa, you need to have an offer letter from a recognized US university. After completing the application process of the university and clearing the interview, the university will issue an I-20 form, with the help of which you can apply for the visa.
- Pay the SEVIS fee
SEVIS is the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System, which is the fee that you need to pay before you schedule the visa interview. This fee is different from what you will pay for the tuition cost.
For the F-1 Visa, the fee is $350.
- Complete the DS-160 Form
Another important step in the US student visa process is to fill out the DS-160 form. This form will contain all the details about your university, course, funds, and previous academics. You need to provide all the correct information in the form and also provide a photograph in the form following the guidelines.
- Schedule your Visa interview.
The next step in the process is the visa interview. After uploading the Ds-160 form, you need to schedule the visa interview at the nearest visa center. You need to prepare for the interview with basic questions like: Why do you want to study in the US? Why have you selected this university? How will you manage your funds?
Wondering how long the visa interview takes? It’s usually quick, but being prepared is key!
- Give the visa interview.
With all your documents go to the center and give your interview. Keep your passport and DS-160 form at the time of the interview. Be confident and honest while answering the questions in the interview. After the interview, the visa officer will decide whether you will get the visa or not.
Contents
What documents do you need for the US Student Visa Process?
You must have all the required documents for the USA student Visa process. Here is the list of documents required:
- I-20 form
- DS-160 form
- Valid Passport
- SEVIS fee receipt
- Visa application fee receipt
- Proof of financials
- Proof of intent to return to India
- Passport-sized photos
How much does the US student visa cost? On average, you’ll pay around $160, not including the SEVIS fee.
How to get your US student visa approved: Tips.
Visa blues giving you sleepless nights? Don’t worry! Follow these golden rules, and you’ll be packing your bags for the USA in no time.
- Be Honest– Being honest is the first and best thing you can do for your US student visa application. Give the correct information to the visa consulates, as incorrect information might lead to visa rejection.
- Financial stability– Show that you have enough funds to support your education and living in the USA. You should have proof of your funds in the form of bank statements that can cover your tuition costs and living expenses.
- Intent to return– No country wants international students to stay back in their country for work. So, show strong ties to your home country and your intention to return to your home country. You can mention family ties, job opportunities in your home country, property, etc.
Conclusion
Planning to pursue your studies in the USA is an excellent choice!! Do you know why? Because the USA is home to renowned universities that have research opportunities available. This will ensure academic excellence, networking opportunities, and career growth.
The US Student Visa process is complex but with the knowledge of the correct process and required documents, you can apply for the visa easily. You can also take the help of a study abroad consultant who will help you ease the process. Just follow the step-by-step guide to apply for the visa and prepare well for the interview.
Click More: Edysor: Pioneering India’s First Home Counselling Revolution for Aspiring Global Scholars
FAQs about the US Student Visa Process
- How long does it take to receive the Visa?
It takes around 3-5 weeks to complete the whole process and receive the visa, depending on your application.
- Can I do a part-time job in the US during my studies?
Yes!! You can work but not more than 20 hours per week during the studies and 40 hours per week during the semester breaks.
