USA Student Visa

USA Student Visa

Student Visa Guide for International Students

In order to enter the United States for educational purposes, individuals from overseas need to acquire a student visa. The type of school and course determine whether an F visa or M visa is required.#

It's important to note that individuals cannot study on a visitor visa or under the Visa Waiver Program, except for recreational non-credit courses. Visitor visas might be suitable for brief periods of recreational study, but for U.S.-conferred degrees or certificates, a student visa is mandatory, even for short durations or distance learning programs.

To attend Visa Category
University or college F
High School M
Private elementary school M
Seminary M
Conservatory M
Another academic institution, including a language training program M
Vocational or other recognized nonacademic institution, other than a language training program M

Eligibility for the USA Student Visa

To be eligible for various forms of employment in US universities, student applicants must be over 18, legally enrolled with an F-1 student visa for at least one academic year, and possess proper authorization. On-campus work is limited to 20 hours/week during academic terms and full-time during breaks.

 One must fulfil the following criteria to qualify for a Student Visa:

Required Documents

Student Visa Application Process

1: Apply and Get Accepted: Apply to a US university and receive an acceptance letter. Application deadlines are usually in December or January, with admission notices sent out in March and April.

2: Receive Form I-20 or DS-2019: Upon acceptance, you'll receive either Form I-20 (for F-1 and M-1 students) or Form DS-2019 (for J-1 students) from your school and pay the SEVIS I-901 fee online, which is $350 for F-1/M-1 students and $220 for J-1 students.

3: Fill out DS-160 Form: Complete the Online Non-immigrant Visa Application (Form DS-160) and select the embassy for your visa interview.

4: Pay Visa Application Fee: Pay the $185 visa application fee. The payment date varies by the embassy.

5: Receive Visa: Upon approval, the embassy will return your passport with the new visa. Some embassies require in-person pickup, while others may ship it to you.

How long does it take to receive a Student Visa?

US Student Visa processing times vary; they can be issued up to 120 days before your program starts, but entry to the US is allowed only 30 days before. F-1/M-1 visas follow this, while J-1 visas have more flexibility. Entry earlier than 30 days requires a visitor visa, except for returning students.

USA Student Visa Enquiry

If you have any questions, do not hesitate to contact us so we can assist with all queries regarding US Student Visas.

Study in the USA Blog

"SI-USA helped me successfully apply to study business in USA and I cannot thank them enough for their support. They assisted me with each step, ensuring I was aware of all my options in terms of program and university selection, making the process totally stress free."

Olivia Business and Management

Olivia