Are you preparing to continue your education in the United States? Fulfilling your dream of studying abroad, particularly in the US, is an exciting first step that requires thorough preparation.
One crucial stage you must go through is obtaining a student visa. The process may seem complicated, but with proper guidance, you can navigate it more easily and increase your chances of securing a visa.
Rest assured, @america is ready to assist you with this preparation. We’ve compiled detailed information about US student visas, from the various types to the application steps you need to follow. Read on to learn more!
Understanding U.S. Student Visas
A US student visa is an official document issued by the United States government that allows foreign citizens to enter and stay in the US primarily for educational purposes at recognized institutions. It’s important to remember that this visa is not intended for work or tourism.
Read more: Top 10 Universities in America
Types of U.S. Student Visas
There are three main types of student visas issued by the US government:
F-1 Visa
- Intended for students who will be pursuing full-time academic programs, such as bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs.
- Allows visa holders to work on campus for up to 20 hours per week during the academic term and up to 40 hours per week during academic breaks.
- F-1 visa holders also have the opportunity to participate in Optional Practical Training (OPT) for 12 months after graduation.
- Spouses and children under 21 can apply for F-2 visas to stay with the F-1 visa holder.
J-1 Visa
- Intended for professionals who want to continue their education while simultaneously advancing their career.
- J-1 visa holders can work up to 20 hours per week during the academic term and full-time during holiday periods.
- There is no option for OPT (Optional Practical Training) program.
- Spouses and children under 21 years of age can apply for J-2 visas to stay with the J-1 visa holder.
M-1 Visa
- Designed for non-academic or vocational study programs, such as vocational schools, certification programs, and other short-term education.
- M-1 visa holders are not permitted to work on campus during their studies.
- There is no option for OPT after graduation.
- Spouses and children cannot stay in the US with an M-1 visa holder.
Guide to Applying for a US Student Visa
1. Get Accepted to a SEVP-Approved Institution
The first step is to gain acceptance from a US educational institution accredited by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP). This institution will provide the Form I-20 needed for your visa application.
2. Pay the SEVIS Fee
After receiving Form I-20, use it to create a SEVIS account and pay the SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) fee. This fee is mandatory for all student visa applicants.
3. Complete Form DS-160
Form DS-160 is an electronic visa application form that must be completed online accurately and thoroughly. Make sure you have a recent digital photo to upload to the form and remember to save your application confirmation number after completing the form.
4. Pay the Visa Application Fee
US student visa application fees vary depending on your nationality. This fee must be paid after completing Form DS-160.
5. Schedule and Attend the Visa Interview
After completing the previous steps, you can schedule a visa interview at the US embassy or consulate in your home country. Be sure to bring all required documents to the interview, including your passport, Form DS-160, Form I-20, proof of SEVIS and visa application fee payments, and other supporting documents.
6. Submit Biometrics
Fingerprinting and photo (biometrics) collection usually takes place on the same day as the visa interview.
7. Wait for Processing and Decision
The US visa process typically takes several days, on the average 3 business days after the interview. You can monitor your visa application status through the official US embassy or consulate website.
8. Receive and Check Your Visa
If your visa is approved, you’ll receive your passport with the visa inside. Make sure to double-check all information on the visa before traveling to the US.
Read more: Tuition Costs of Universities in the US
By following this guide and preparing thoroughly, you can increase your chances of obtaining a US student visa and realizing your dream of studying in the United States.
If you have any other questions, don’t hesitate to contact our advisers! @america is always ready to assist you with your success, free of charge. Don’t forget to check our upcoming event!
