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The US student visa process can be complex, but with the right guidance, it’s a manageable journey. This guide will walk you through the essential steps and requirements for studying in the United States.
Why Study in the USA?
The United States is a global leader in higher education, with some of the world’s most prestigious universities. It offers a vast range of academic programs, cutting-edge research, and a diverse, inclusive cultural environment. The US provides a prime platform for personal and professional growth for international students.
US Student Visa Fees (2025)
The fees for US student visas can vary. It’s crucial to budget for these costs well in advance.
SEVIS Fee (I-901): $350 for F and M visas, $220 for most J visas. This fee supports the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP).
Visa Application (MRV) Fee: $185 for F, M, and J non-immigrant visas.
Visa Integrity Fee: Starting October 1, 2025, a new $250 “visa integrity fee” will apply to most non-immigrant visa types, including F, M, and J visas for Indian applicants. This fee is in addition to the MRV and SEVIS fees.
Essential Documents for a US Student Visa
Gathering all necessary documents is crucial to avoid delays or denials.
- Valid Passport: Must be valid for at least six months beyond your stay.
- Form I-20 or DS-2019: The official “Certificate of Eligibility” provided by your US institution.
- DS-160 Confirmation Page: The confirmation of your online non-immigrant visa application.
- SEVIS Fee Payment Receipt: Proof that you have paid the required SEVIS fee.
- Academic Transcripts & Diplomas: Records from your previous education.
- Standardized Test Scores: (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS, GRE, GMAT), if required by your program.
- Proof of Financial Support: Bank statements, scholarship letters, or other proof that you can cover your tuition and living expenses.
- Passport-sized Photographs: As per US visa photo requirements.
Your Step-by-Step Guide to the US Student Visa Process
Navigating the US student visa application is a multi-step process. Here’s a clear breakdown to help you succeed.
Step 1: Obtain Form I-20 or DS-2019 First, you must be accepted into a program at a SEVP-approved school. Once accepted, the institution will issue you Form I-20 (for F or M visas) or Form DS-2019 (for J visas), which is your official Certificate of Eligibility.
Step 2: Pay the SEVIS Fee Pay the non-refundable SEVIS I-901 Fee. This fee supports the Student and Exchange Visitor Program that tracks international students. Be sure to save your payment receipt.
Step 3: Complete the DS-160 Form Fill out the online DS-160 Non-immigrant Visa Application Form completely and accurately. Any inconsistencies can cause delays. Print the confirmation page.
Step 4: Pay the Visa Application Fee Pay the visa application fee ($185 as of 2025) and any additional fees, such as the new $250 Visa Integrity Fee for Indian applicants (effective from October 1, 2025). This must be paid before you schedule your appointments.
Step 5: Schedule Visa Appointments Schedule two separate appointments at a US Embassy or Consulate: one for biometrics (fingerprints and photo) and another for your visa interview. Note: As of September 2, 2025, in-person interviews are mandatory for most student visa applicants, regardless of age or previous visa history.
Step 6: Attend the Visa Interview Attend your interview with all required documents, including your I-20, SEVIS receipt, and proof of financial support. Answer all questions honestly and confidently.
Step 7: Receive Your Visa If approved, the consular officer will keep your passport to issue the visa stamp. It will typically be returned to you within a few days.
With abroad360, we provide tailored guidance and expert support to help you through each of these critical steps, ensuring a smooth and stress-free application process.
Visa Process
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How much does it cost to study in the USA?
Tuition Fees:
Undergraduate: $20,000 - $40,000 per year.
Graduate: $20,000 - $45,000 per year.
Professional programs like MBA, medicine, or law can be significantly higher.
Living Expenses:
The average cost is between $10,000 and $25,000 per year, or approximately $1,000 - $2,000 per month.
This includes housing, food, transportation, and other personal expenses.
Costs are highest in major metropolitan areas like New York, San Francisco, and Boston.
What are the financial requirements for a US student visa?
Proof of Funds: You must provide official documents, such as:
Bank statements from you or a sponsor.
A scholarship or grant letter.
A loan approval letter from a recognized financial institution.
Other financial documents showing a stable source of income.
What are the main types of US student visas?
J-1 Visa: For participants in a wide range of exchange visitor programs, including academic and research opportunities.
M-1 Visa: For students pursuing non-academic or vocational courses.
Can I work while on a US student visa?
F-1 Visa:
You can work on campus for up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during holidays.
After your first academic year, you may be eligible for off-campus work through Curricular Practical Training (CPT) or Optional Practical Training (OPT), which must be directly related to your field of study.
M-1 Visa: M-1 visa holders are generally not permitted to work during their studies.
J-1 Visa: Work is allowed with the explicit authorization of your program sponsor.