The USA has been one of the most favoured study destinations by students globally. According to the latest report, over 763,760 international students were reported to be studying in the USA in 2023.
Prestigious institutions, world-class education, modern learning and research facilities, vibrant campus life, superior lifestyle, and well-paying work opportunities across diverse disciplines are some key factors influencing students to opt for the USA to pursue higher education.
But, to enter the country as a student and live your American dream, you need to have a valid student visa, USA. So, here’s a blog by MSM Unify covering all the critical information on student visas for the USA. Read on!
Types of student visa USABefore delivering into our primary topic of discussion - how to get a student visa USA, know the different types of student visas for the USA, and understand what you should apply for.
1. F-1 visa
You need to avail yourself of an F-1 visa, if you want to pursue a full-time degree program or an English language program in the USA. This visa is typically valid until you complete the program.
The visa may be extended further if you need more time to complete the program, and you fulfil the eligibility criteria for the extension. Also, it is important to note that F-1 visa holders are allowed to work with certain restrictions after completing their first year of the academic program.
2. M-1 visa
M-1 visa is issued to international students who wish to pursue a non-academic or vocational program in the US. M-1 visa holders are not allowed to work while completing their course.
3. J-1 visa
A J-1 visa is typically issued to international students coming to the US through educational and cultural exchange programs, or interns, professional trainees, teachers, youth workers, etc.
How to apply for a student visa USAIn this blog, we will primarily focus on the F-1 student visa as this is the most popular type of student visa USA availed by students wanting to pursue a full-time course at a college or university. Here’s how you can apply for this visa:
Please note: Apply for a student visa USA at least 120 days before the commencement of your degree program.
Documents required for a student visa USAHere’s a list of essential documents you need for the US visa application.
Please note: Visit the official website of the US Embassy and Consulates for the updated list of documents for F-1 visa application.
This crisp blog by MSM Unify has covered all the key aspects of applying for a student visa to the USA. However, it is important to note that the student visa application process is one of the most critical steps to embark on a successful study abroad journey.
So, if you aspire to study in the USA, get in touch with expert overseas education consultants at MSM Unify to get comprehensive guidance for a rewarding study-abroad journey. Good luck!
Prestigious institutions, world-class education, modern learning and research facilities, vibrant campus life, superior lifestyle, and well-paying work opportunities across diverse disciplines are some key factors influencing students to opt for the USA to pursue higher education.
But, to enter the country as a student and live your American dream, you need to have a valid student visa, USA. So, here’s a blog by MSM Unify covering all the critical information on student visas for the USA. Read on!
Types of student visa USABefore delivering into our primary topic of discussion - how to get a student visa USA, know the different types of student visas for the USA, and understand what you should apply for.
1. F-1 visa
You need to avail yourself of an F-1 visa, if you want to pursue a full-time degree program or an English language program in the USA. This visa is typically valid until you complete the program.
The visa may be extended further if you need more time to complete the program, and you fulfil the eligibility criteria for the extension. Also, it is important to note that F-1 visa holders are allowed to work with certain restrictions after completing their first year of the academic program.
2. M-1 visa
M-1 visa is issued to international students who wish to pursue a non-academic or vocational program in the US. M-1 visa holders are not allowed to work while completing their course.
3. J-1 visa
A J-1 visa is typically issued to international students coming to the US through educational and cultural exchange programs, or interns, professional trainees, teachers, youth workers, etc.
How to apply for a student visa USAIn this blog, we will primarily focus on the F-1 student visa as this is the most popular type of student visa USA availed by students wanting to pursue a full-time course at a college or university. Here’s how you can apply for this visa:
- Apply to a SEVP (Student and Exchange Visitor Program) approved educational institution and secure admission to the desired program.
- Pay the I-901 SEVIS fee which is currently $350.
- After the payment, your school will provide you with an I-20 form which you will need to present to the consular officer during the visa interview.
- Fulfill the application requirements of your embassy and pay the non-refundable visa application fee which is $185 presently.
- You may fill out the visa application form online, and print the completed DS-160 form, which you will need for your F-1 visa interview.
- Lastly, you will need to appear for the visa interview. Your performance during the interview will determine if you will get the student visa USA or not.
Please note: Apply for a student visa USA at least 120 days before the commencement of your degree program.
Documents required for a student visa USAHere’s a list of essential documents you need for the US visa application.
- Form DS-160 (Non-immigrant visa application form)
- Receipt of visa application fee
- Standardized test scores (GMAT/GRE, TOEFL/ IELTS, etc.)
- Original academic transcripts
- Proof of financial support
- A valid passport, etc.
Please note: Visit the official website of the US Embassy and Consulates for the updated list of documents for F-1 visa application.
This crisp blog by MSM Unify has covered all the key aspects of applying for a student visa to the USA. However, it is important to note that the student visa application process is one of the most critical steps to embark on a successful study abroad journey.
So, if you aspire to study in the USA, get in touch with expert overseas education consultants at MSM Unify to get comprehensive guidance for a rewarding study-abroad journey. Good luck!