How do I apply for a student visa?
Once you are admitted, your university will send you a SEVIS I-20 or SEVIS DS-2019. The first thing you should do is make an appointment with the consulate for a student visa by going to the consulate's Web site and following the instructions for making the appointment.
Before going to the interview appointment, you should pay two fees: the visa application fee, which is paid at a local bank where you will receive a receipt, and the SEVIS fee, which is paid online (see www.fmjfee.com—this is the fastest way to get a receipt but requires a credit card). You may pay by check or money order drawn on a U.S. bank and payable in U.S. dollars (see www.ice.gov/graphics/sevis/pdf/I-901.pdf) or by Western Union (see www.ice.gov/graphics/sevis/i901/wu_instr.htm).
What documents are required for the visa?
- SEVIS I-20 or SEVIS DS-2019, issued by a U.S. college, school, or university
- An application Form DS-156, available from the consulate or online
- Form DS-158, available from the consulate or online
- Males between the ages of 16 and 45 must complete Form DS-157, available from the consulate or online
- A passport valid for at least six months after entry into the United States
- One photograph—Click here for current photo requirements
- A receipt for visa processing fee, information available from the consulate or at the specific consulate Web site
- SEVIS fee receipt. If you pay by check, it will take several days to get the receipt. Read the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs).
- Financial documentation supporting study in the United States, as indicated on the I-20 or DS-2019
- Letter of admission, evidence of applicant's TOEFL® score, diplomas or transcripts from previous study—may not be required but a consular officer may request this information
When should I apply?
Because a personal interview will be required of most visa applicants, you should learn about the process at the particular post where you'll apply and make an appointment in advance. The appointment date should be at a time when the documents listed above will be in hand. Security measures are in place, so the earlier you go the better. Also, you want to make sure you'll have the visa before the semester of admission.
What should I do if my visa application is denied?
Some visa applicants may be able to overcome a visa application denial. The U.S. Department of State has useful information on its site regarding visa denials.
