There have been significant changes associated with acquiring an F1 visa from the US embassy since August 2012. The new process now requires students to follow a two-step appointment system. First, they need to schedule an appointment at the Visa Application Centre to complete biometrics, which includes capturing photographs and fingerprints. Once the biometrics appointment is completed, they can then book an appointment for the visa interview.
In this blog, we will explore the steps for student F1 US visa. Each step is essential and should not be overlooked by prospective students.
What Is F1 Student Visa?
The F1 visa is specifically designed for non-immigrant students who wish to pursue their studies in the United States. Once an applicant has applied to a US university and received an acceptance letter, they become eligible to apply for an F1 student visa. This visa allows students to reside and study in the US for the duration of their academic programme. It provides them with the opportunity to fully immerse themselves in their chosen course of study and make the most of their educational experience in the US.
How to Get F1 Student Visa for USA?
Here are the steps for student F1 US visa
- Step 1: I-20 Application Form
- Step 2: SEVIS Fee
- Step 3: DS-160 Online Application Form
- Step 4: Visa Registration Fee
- Step 5: US Embassy Visa Appointment
- Step 6: Visa Interview
Step 1- I-20 Application Form: When it comes to booking an F1 visa slot, the essential document you need is the I-20 form. If you have applied for an F1 visa, your university will send you the I-20 form. Along with the I-20 form, you will also receive your SEVIS ID, an important identification number for your visa application.
Step 2- SEVIS Fee: Once you have completed the I-20 form through the US visa consulate in your home country, the next step is to pay the SEVIS fee for the F1 visa, which amounts to 350 USD. Thus, the USA student visa fees include a SEVIS fee of 350 USD.
Step 3- DS-160 Online Application Form: The DS-160 is an online non-immigrant visa electronic application, designed to gather essential application details from individuals seeking a non-immigrant visa for temporary travel to the US. Once you have completed the form, you can generate a DS-160 barcode confirmation sheet, which can be printed using a laser printer. It is advisable to email the confirmation page to yourself as a backup copy for your records.
Step 4- Visa Registration Fee: The total fees for a student visa application (F1 visa) at the US embassy consist of USD 160, VFS service charge, and bank charges, amounting to approximately 11,200 INR. This payment can be made in cash or through a demand draft (DD)/cheque at Axis Bank or CitiBank.
Upon payment, the bank will provide you with a visa fee receipt in duplicate, featuring a 10-digit barcode number. This barcode number is essential for scheduling your visa interview appointment. Please note that it takes two days for the barcode to become active and ready for use.
Step 5- US Embassy Visa Appointment: To schedule your US embassy visa appointment, you will need to utilise your barcode and fee receipt. After successfully booking your appointment for the US student visa, the next step is to arrange an F1 visa slot booking for the Visa Application Centre (VAC).
It is important to schedule the F1 visa slot booking for biometrics, which includes capturing your photograph and fingerprints, at least one day before your visa interview. This allows sufficient time to complete the biometrics process before your scheduled interview.
Step 6- Visa Interview: Once you have successfully booked your appointment for the US student visa and completed your biometrics, it is time to attend the F1 US student visa interview. The visa interview is a personal interaction where you will be asked various questions regarding your intention to study in the US, as well as your academic background and financial capability. The purpose of the interview is to assess your eligibility and determine if you meet the requirements for obtaining the F1 student visa.
Documents Required For The F1 Student Visa Process
The F1 student visa process requires certain documents to be submitted to the designated authorities. It is crucial to carefully review and gather all required documents to ensure a smooth and successful application process:
Documents for VAC appointment:
- Valid Passport
- The confirmed appointment confirmation page
- Fee receipt dated with payment
- The ten (10) digit barcode number from the DS-160 confirmation page
Documents for visa interview:
- Print copy of appointment letter
- DS-160 confirmation page
- 1 Photograph taken within six months
- Original visa fee payment receipt
Note: If your visa application was denied previously under any circumstances, you must submit a new Non-immigrant Visa Electronic Application (DS-160) form.
Conclusion
The process and steps for student F1 US visa may seem challenging, but it can be simplified if you gather all the necessary documents as requested. For a successful visa interview, avoid providing false documentation that could raise suspicion among visa officials.
Remember to be honest, transparent, and well-prepared throughout the process, showcasing your genuine intent to study in the US. With the right approach and genuine documentation, you can confidently embark on your journey to pursue your educational aspirations in the US.
Good Luck!
FAQs
Is it hard to get F1 visa approved?
Obtaining an F1 visa is a challenging process. However, it can be simplified if you gather all the necessary documents and follow the instructions carefully.
How much bank balance is required for US student visa?
It is usually recommended to have at least USD 10,000 in your bank account or have 1 year of tuition fees and living costs in the US.
How long does it take to get a USA F1 student visa?
Based on case complexity, the processing time for an F1 visa varies from one week to a few months. Generally, the application processing takes a few days, followed by an additional two or three days for passport delivery.
What is the age limit for student visa in USA?
To apply for a US student visa, the minimum age requirement is 18 years.
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1 thought on “Top PGDM Courses In Canada: Universities, Specialisations & Eligibility”
I have done Bachelor’s in Culinary Arts from India and completed my graduation in the year 2022 .I am 22 years old. After graduation, I have done 1 year paid internship from USA .Now, I would like to take occupational experience and learn culinary skills and also do masters in Culinary arts.How can I find the college n best course / country where I can persue studying further