How to get a Student Visa for USA in 2025
If you’re a student from Bangladesh or another 3rd world country and planning to study in the United States, you’ll need a student visa to make your dream a reality. The process may seem overwhelming, but don’t worry – we’re here to guide you through every step. Whether you’re applying for a Bachelor’s degree or a vocational program, this guide will help you understand the requirements and how to complete the process smoothly.
Types of student visa in USA
A student visa is an official document that allows a foreign national to study in the United States. There are two main types of student visas:
1) F-1 Visa: This is the most common student visa. It is issued to students who plan to pursue academic studies at a U.S. college, university, or high school.
2) M-1 Visa: This visa is for students who plan to enroll in non-academic or vocational programs, such as technical training or language courses.
It’s important to apply for the correct visa based on the type of education you plan to undertake.
Who Needs a U.S. Student Visa?
You need a student visa if:
- You plan to study in the U.S. at an accredited school or university.
- You plan to attend a full-time program that leads to a degree or certificate.
- Your school is a SEVP-approved institution (Student and Exchange Visitor Program).
If you are planning a short-term course of study (like a short language course or a non-degree certificate), you may be eligible for a visitor visa (B visa), but not for a degree program.
How to Apply for student visa in usa
The process of applying for a U.S. student visa includes several important steps. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
#1. Get Accepted into a SEVP-Approved School
Before you can apply for a student visa, you need to be accepted by a U.S. institution that is approved by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP). These schools are authorized to enroll international students.
- How to Apply to Schools
You will need to apply directly to U.S. colleges or universities. Make sure you check the school’s website for specific application procedures and deadlines. Popular U.S. universities often have a detailed admission process that includes submission of academic transcripts, standardized test scores (like the SAT or GRE), recommendation letters, and proof of English proficiency (TOEFL or IELTS).
- What to Do After Acceptance
Once you are accepted, the school will send you a Form I-20 (Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status). This form is an essential part of your visa application.
#2. Pay the SEVIS Fee
The SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) fee is a mandatory fee that helps the U.S. government track students during their stay in the U.S.
- How to Pay SEVIS Fee
You can pay this fee online on the SEVIS I-901 website. Make sure to keep the receipt, as you will need it for your visa interview.
- Fee Amount
The SEVIS fee for F-1 and M-1 visa applicants is typically around $350, but it may vary based on your visa type and country.
#3. Complete the DS-160 Visa Application
The Form DS-160 is an online application form required for all nonimmigrant visa applications. This is where you’ll provide personal information and details about your visa type.
- Filling Out the DS-160
Visit the U.S. Department of State website and fill out the DS-160 form. You’ll be asked questions related to your personal background, travel plans, and education. Ensure that you answer all questions truthfully and completely.
- Photo Requirement
You will need to upload a passport-sized photo that meets specific requirements. The photo should be in color, 2 x 2 inches, and meet the guidelines outlined on the DS-160 website.
- Confirmation Page
Once you complete the form, print the DS-160 confirmation page. This page contains a barcode and is required for your visa interview.
#4. Schedule Your Visa Interview
After completing the DS-160 form, the next step is to schedule a visa interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in your home country.
- Where to Schedule
Go to the U.S. Embassy website in your country to schedule the interview. You’ll be required to pay a visa application fee before scheduling.
- Visa Interview Waiting Times
Visa appointment wait times can vary depending on the season and location. It’s best to schedule your interview as early as possible, as wait times may be longer during peak times like summer or holiday seasons.
#5. Prepare for Your Visa Interview
Before your interview, make sure you have all the necessary documents. Here’s a list of required documents:
- Valid Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in the U.S.
- Form I-20: Signed by both you and the Designated School Official (DSO) at your school.
- DS-160 Confirmation Page: The printed confirmation page from the DS-160 form.
- Visa Application Fee Payment Receipt: Proof that you have paid the visa application fee.
- SEVIS Fee Payment Receipt: Proof that you have paid the SEVIS fee.
What are the requirements for student visa in USA?
Depending on your circumstances, you may need additional documents, such as:
1) Proof of financial support: Bank statements, scholarship letters, or affidavits of support showing you have enough money to cover tuition and living expenses.
2) Academic transcripts and test scores: These can include your high school diploma, university degrees, and standardized test scores like SAT, GRE, or TOEFL.
3) Proof of ties to your home country: This can include documents that show your intent to return home after studying, such as family connections, property ownership, or a job offer in your home country.
#6. Attend the Visa Interview
The interview is one of the most important steps in the visa application process. During the interview, a U.S. consular officer will ask you several questions to determine if you qualify for a student visa.
- Interview Questions: Be prepared to answer questions about your academic goals, why you chose your school, how you plan to finance your studies, and your future plans after graduation.
- Fingerprinting: You will also be fingerprinted as part of the visa application process.
If the consular officer is satisfied with your answers, they may approve your visa.
#7. Wait for Visa Approval
After the interview, the consular officer will inform you whether your visa application is approved or denied. If approved, your visa will be stamped in your passport, and you’ll receive instructions on how to collect it. Depending on your nationality, you may need to pay a visa issuance fee when your visa is approved. This fee is separate from the application fee.
#8. Travel to the United States
Once you’ve received your student visa, you can travel to the U.S. However, it’s important to note the following:
1) Arrival Time: You cannot enter the U.S. more than 30 days before the start date of your program as indicated on your Form I-20.
2) Port of Entry: At the U.S. port of entry (typically an airport), a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer will check your visa and other documents. The officer will determine whether you are allowed to enter the country.
What Happens After You Arrive in the U.S.?
Once you arrive in the U.S., you must comply with the following rules:
1) Attend School Full-Time: As an F-1 or M-1 student, you are required to maintain full-time enrollment at your school.
2) Work Restrictions: F-1 students can work on-campus for up to 20 hours per week during the school term and full-time during holidays. M-1 students can work only in limited circumstances, such as after completing their studies.
3) Maintain Student Status: You must comply with all U.S. immigration laws and maintain your student status throughout your stay. If you fall out of status, your visa may be revoked.
Can Your Family Join You?
Yes, your spouse and unmarried children under 21 can join you in the U.S. while you study on an F-2 or M-2 visa. They can live with you in the U.S., but they cannot work while on an F-2 visa.
Extending Your Stay or Changing Your Status
- Extension of Stay
If you need to extend your stay in the U.S. for any reason (e.g., completing your program), you can apply to extend your F-1 or M-1 status through U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
- Change of Status
If you decide to change your status (e.g., from F-1 to a work visa), you can apply for a change of status without leaving the U.S. However, if you leave the U.S., you will need to apply for a new visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate.
Final Thoughts
Applying for a U.S. student visa may seem like a long process, but by following these steps carefully, you can ensure a smoother experience. Make sure you plan ahead, prepare all the necessary documents, and stay organized throughout the process.
Good luck on your journey to studying in the United States! It’s a big step, but with the right preparation, you’ll be ready to embark on this exciting adventure.
