How to Apply for an F-1 Student Visa to Study in the United States
The F-1 Student Visa allows foreign students to study in the U.S. at accredited high schools, colleges, universities, or technical schools. It’s a great pathway for international students looking to pursue secondary or higher education in the U.S.
✅ Who Can Apply for an F-1 Visa?
To be eligible, you must first be accepted into a school that is:
- Accredited, and
- Authorized by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to issue Form I-20 through the SEVIS program.
You can search for approved schools here:
🔗 DHS School Search Tool
📋 Steps to Get an F-1 Student Visa
1. Apply to a U.S. School
Choose an SEVP-certified school and apply. Once accepted, you’ll move to the next step.
2. Receive Form I-20
Once admitted, the school will issue you Form I-20 (Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status). This is a key document for your visa application.
3. Pay the SEVIS Fee
Before applying for the visa, pay the SEVIS I-901 fee online. Save the receipt—it’s required for your interview.
4. Complete Form DS-160
Fill out the DS-160 (Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application) on the U.S. Department of State website. You’ll need personal, educational, and program details.
5. Schedule a Visa Interview
Book a visa interview at the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. Interview wait times vary, so apply early.
6. Pay the Visa Fee
Pay the required visa application fee (amount may vary by country). Keep the receipt for your records.
7. Prepare for the Interview
Gather all necessary documents:
- Valid passport
- Form I-20
- DS-160 confirmation page
- SEVIS fee receipt
- Visa fee receipt
- School admission letter
- Financial documents (to prove you can cover tuition/living expenses)
- Academic records (transcripts, diplomas)
8. Attend the Interview
At your visa interview, be ready to discuss your study plans, funding, ties to your home country, and post-graduation intentions. The consular officer will review your application and decide whether to approve your visa.
9. Get Your Visa and Travel
If approved, the F-1 visa will be placed in your passport. You can enter the U.S. up to 30 days before your program’s start date listed on the I-20.
⚠️ Important Tips:
- Each country’s embassy or consulate may have different procedures, so check their official website for local guidance.
- Apply early to avoid delays.
- Keep all receipts and documents organized for the visa process.
Last Revision: March 2025.