International students planning to study in USA for a rewarding career and global exposure need to obtain F1 visa. Scheduling an appointment with the American consulate after determining the consular district will help in securing the primary visa for academic studies.
Requirements
Indian students aiming for a U.S. Visa need to abide by strict guidelines set by the authorities to get approval instantly. Here are the requirements that every student must fulfill to obtain visa.
1. Your Form I-20
This form is to get a student enrolled into the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS). It is provided by your corresponding school to which you have applied.
2. SEVIS I-901 receipt
This receipt is issued by the authorities from Student and Exchange Visitor after the SEVIS fee has been paid. It must be produced during the visa application interview and to gain admission through the port of entry.
3. Signed passport (must be valid for 6 months after entry into the US)
This document must be produced as a token of evidence about your eligibility to travel. It is necessary to ensure that there is no expiry or any other issues.
4. Transcripts or diplomas from current or previous institutions
These documents are necessary in support of your academic studies. The required transcripts need to be produced at the time of your interview.
Additionally, the below documents are necessary to complete F1 Visa interview process as per the guidelines from U.S. consulate.
- Program of study description
- Accommodation information
- Evidence of funds to cover tuition and living expenses for either the length of your study or one year, whichever is shorter.
- Your local US Embassy/Consulate might require additional forms such as DS-156, DS-157A, DS-158A (Available online or at your local embassy/consulate.)
Process:
The F1 Visa process for higher studies in USA involves a definite process flow that need to be completed to get approval.
- SEVP certified school acceptance.
- SEVIS fee payment
- I-20 Form obtainment
- F1 Visa application form completion
- F1 Visa interview scheduling
- S. F1 Visa approval
How to Apply:
There are certain stages during the interview process that need to be completed in order to prove eligibility and obtain F1 Visa successfully.
1. Obtain acceptance from an SEVP Approved School
Before applying for F1 student visa for the USA, it is necessary to get accepted by a school approved by the SEVP.
2. Pay SEVIS Fee to receive I-20 Form
After acceptance from the school, you must pay the SEVIS I-901 Fee to get enrolled in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS).
3. Fill the Visa Application as per guidelines
Apply for F1 student visa as per the U.S. embassy requirements or consulate in order to obtain their acceptance. It is necessary for you to pay a non-refundable visa application fee.
4. Schedule and Prepare for your Interview
You must schedule your F1 visa interview with the U.S. embassy or consulate. Different wait times for interview appointments are in vogue depending upon the location, season, and visa category.
Places to Apply for Visa
Visa Application Center Locations
| City | Branch | Address |
| Mumbai | Bandra East, Mumbai – 400051 | Trade Center, Gr. Floor, G Block, Bandrakurla Complex |
| Chennai | Numgambakkam, Chennai 600034 | Good shepherd, No 82, Kodambakkam High Road |
| Hyderabad | Begumpet, Secunderabad – 500003 | 1-8-384/385, Gowra Grand, S.P.Road |
| New Delhi | Nehru Place, New Delhi – 110019 | S – 1 American Plaza, (Hotel Eros Managed by Hilton), International Trade Tower |
| Kolkata | Kolkata – 700017 | Jasmine Tower, 31, Shakespeare Sarani (1st Floor) |
How to Book Student Tickets
Students willing to travel USA to realize a dream career need to book tickets in advance. Ideally, it is advisable to book U.S. flight tickets at least 1 or 2 months before to get the best flight deals. Book now to obtain maximum discounts and unbeatable deals for budget travel.
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