The first step to studying in the USA is to apply for a student visa. The US student visa allows you to study and live in the US. All foreign students need one.
The US Embassy or Consulate in your country is where you start the student visa application process. Each facility has a different visa application process so you will need to consult the instructions on the website of the consulate or embassy for your country.
Although you can apply for a US student Visa through any consulate or embassy around the globe, it is more difficult to request a visa from a country other than your permanent residence. You can also get a chance for US Visa lottery, yes you heard it, you can once check for it.
A Form I-20, Certificate for Eligibility for Nominee (F-1) Student Status, Academic and Language Students will be issued to foreign students who are accepted to study at an academic school in the US. This allows them to start the student visa application process. Start the application at least one month before your first day of American study. The Department of State recommends that students begin the application within 120 days of receiving the I-20.
Start by filling out the online visa application. As part of your application, you will need to upload a photo. Make sure you print the confirmation page of your application. This page will be required during the visa interview.
Here are some additional tips for students applying for student visas in the United States.
- Plan ahead.
Make an appointment with the consulate or embassy where your application will go through. Winter holidays and summer breaks are busy periods, so it is important to plan ahead to make sure you get an appointment when you need one.
2. Keep your paperwork handy.
You will need to provide documentation for your US student visa application. This includes copies of your application and receipts for payment of the visa application fee and payment for the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System, (SEVIS), fee payment. You will need a valid passport, supporting information such as transcripts and acceptance notifications from your school.
3. Demonstrate your intention to return home.
You must be prepared to prove that you are not interested in violating US immigration laws. US law requires that applications for non-immigrant visas be treated with suspicion. Applicants must demonstrate that their ties to their homeland are strong enough to show that they aren’t just applying for a student visa to enter the United States. You can show your connection to your country by things such as family bonds, financial interests, and employment.
4. Describe your goals.
Demonstrate that you care about the program and how it will impact your career. It is crucial that you can clearly communicate the relationship between school, career, and immigration to convince the consular official that you intend to study in the US.
5. Practice your English language skills.
You can improve your English skills to communicate clearly and concisely with consular officials. Your student visa application will be approved if you are able to communicate well with officials.
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