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A Step-by-Step Guide to Obtaining US Student Visa After Admission

Congratulations on securing admission to your favorite US university. It is a significant achievement and we hope this degree enables you to maximize your career outcomes. The next crucial step in this journey is obtaining the F-1 visa (US student visa). This blog will guide you through the step-by-step process of getting your student visa and ensuring you are well-prepared to embark on your educational adventure.
Step 1:

Receive Your Form I-20 or DS-2019

Once you are admitted to a US university, you will receive a Form I-20 (for F-1 and M-1 visas) or a Form DS-2019 (for J-1 visas). Your university issues this form and confirms your admission and eligibility for a student visa.

Helpful Resource:
  • SEVIS Information
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Step 2:

Pay the SEVIS Fee

The Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) fee must be paid before you can apply for a visa. The SEVIS fee is $350 for F-1 and M-1 visas and $220 for J-1 visas.

SEVIS, the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System, is an online system the US government uses to track and monitor international students and exchange visitors. Students must pay the SEVIS fee to cover the costs of maintaining this system and to ensure compliance with US immigration regulations. This fee is required for the visa application and legal student status in the US.

Visit the SEVIS I-901 Fee Payment website and follow the instructions to pay online. Keep the payment receipt, you will need it for your visa application and interview.

Step 3:

Complete the DS-160 Form

The DS-160 form is the online non-immigrant visa application form. This form requires detailed information about your background, travel plans, and the purpose of your visit to the US.

Steps:
  • Go to the Consular Electronic Application Center (CEAC).
  • Fill out the DS-160 form accurately and completely.
  • Upload a recent passport-sized photograph according to the specified guidelines.
  • Submit the form and print the confirmation page with the barcode.
Step 4:

Pay the Visa Application Fee

After completing the DS-160 form, you have to pay the visa application fee, which is $160 for most student visas.

How to Pay:
  • Visit the US Visa Information and Appointment Services website to pay the fee online.
  • Save the payment receipt as you will need it to schedule your visa interview.
Step 5:

Schedule Your Visa Interview

Schedule your visa interview at the nearest US Embassy or Consulate. It is advisable to schedule your appointment as early as possible, as appointment wait times can vary.

Steps:
  • Visit the US Visa Information and Appointment Services website to schedule your interview.
  • You will need your DS-160 confirmation number and SEVIS ID to book the appointment.
Step 6:

Prepare for the Visa Interview

Preparation is key to a successful visa interview. Gather all necessary documents and rehearse your responses to common interview questions.

Documents to Bring:
  • Valid passport
  • DS-160 confirmation page
  • Visa application fee
  • payment receipt
  • SEVIS fee payment receipt
  • Form I-20 or DS-2019
  • University admission letter
  • Financial documents (e.g., bank statements, scholarship letters)
  • Academic transcripts and test scores
  • Any other supporting documents
Step 7:

Attend Your Visa Interview

Arrive at the embassy or consulate on time for your interview. Be honest, confident, and clear in your responses to the visa officer's questions. The officer will assess your intentions and eligibility for a student visa.

Common Interview Questions:
  • Why do you want to study in the US?
  • Why did you choose this particular university?
  • How do you plan to finance your education?
  • What are your plans after graduation?
Step 8:

Visa Approval and Issuance

If your visa is approved, you will be informed immediately and the visa office will keep your passport. Your passport, with the visa stamp, will be returned to you within a few days.

Take Aways

The process of obtaining a US student visa involves several steps, each requiring careful attention and preparation. By following this guide and utilizing the provided resources, you can navigate the visa application process with confidence and ease. Good luck, and we look forward to seeing you achieve your academic dreams in the United States!