Each country has its own set of requirements for international students who want to study within their borders. The United States is no different, but its requirements are flexible. However, it is important to fully meet all of the requirements in order to be granted an F-1 student visa.
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If you are an international student who wants to study in the United States, you will need to apply for an F-1 student visa. This guide will provide you with the information you need to understand the F-1 student visa requirements and how to apply for one.
Details about the F-1 Visa
The F-1 visa is a popular choice for international students planning to study at a US university or college. To qualify, you must be accepted by a Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-approved US school, possess adequate financial resources for your stay, and prepare the required documents.
Once admitted, you will receive an I-20 form, confirming your F-1 visa eligibility. This form must be presented at the US embassy or consulate in your home country when applying for your visa.
With the F-1 visa, you can remain in the US throughout your study period, plus an additional 60 days. On-campus work is allowed during your studies, with the option of full-time employment after graduation. Your spouse and children under 21 can accompany you on an F-2 visa. Although F-2 visa holders cannot work, they are permitted to attend US schools.
Please note that scholars attending universities, colleges, high schools, conservatories, seminaries, private elementary schools, language training courses, or any educational institution fall under the F-1 visa category. Those enrolling in vocational or non-academic organisations (excluding language courses) should seek the M-visa class.
Procedure to obtain a Student Visa in the United States of America
Obtaining a student visa to the United States involves a complex and time-consuming process. As such, it is important you begin early and carefully follow the instructions of the U.S. government.
You begin by applying to a SEVP-approved school in the United States. Once accepted, you’ll receive a Form I-20, confirming both your admission and financial ability to study in the U.S. You have to pay the SEVIS I-901 and the DS-160 (visa application form) fee which is about $350 and $160, respectively, then schedule a visa interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate. Bring your Form I-20, passport, and other required documents to the interview, as you will be required to present them.
During the interview, expect questions about your academic and financial background, reasons for choosing the U.S. for studies, and ties to your home country. The consular officer will then assess your visa application and inform you of the outcome.
Keep in mind that the wait time for the interview appointment and the final decision on your visa application may vary based on the U.S. embassy or consulate you’re dealing with. This decision process can take several weeks.
F-1 Visa Document Requirements
The following are the document requirements for F-1 visa consultation.
Individual data
- Passport, including the current and previous ones.
- MRV payment slip.
- Visa Interview Appointment Letter.
- DS-160 Verification slip with the bar code seen.
- SEVIS payment slip.
- Passport-sized photograph based on regulations stated.
Academic Documents
- Educational transcripts such as class 10th and 12th credentials and mark sheets.
- GMAT or GRE for graduate programs and SAT scorecard for undergraduate intakes.
- TOEFL and IELTS scorecards and PTE scorecards
- Bachelor’s degree, Required Degree certificate or program fulfillment certificate or mark sheet for all the years, including the consolidated mark sheet (if demanded).
Financial documents
- Loan acceptance letter (if demanded)
- Saving Bank account declaration
- Fixed deposits credentials
- Tax income for the previous three years.
- Asset documents, including residential, commercial, inheritance, or farmland.
Employment-related documents (if demanded)
- Joining letter
- Salary receipts for the last six months
- Relieving letter
It is important to note that you may be asked to provide additional documents, such as letters of recommendation or proof of ties to your home country.
What happens after you are granted an F-1 student visa?
Once granted an F-1 student visa, you can enter the United States and begin your studies. You will be allowed to stay in the United States for the duration of your program, as listed on your I-20 form. After you graduate, you may be eligible to apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT), which allows you to work in the United States for up to 12 months in a field related to your studies. Those with STEM degrees may qualify for an extra 24 months of OPT.
