US Student Visa: All You Need to Know
A study visa is pivotal to achieving your goal as a US study aspirant. Being your trusted study abroad consultancy, Nomad Credit is here to guide you through it. We have been helpful to thousands of students by preparing them to ace the US study visa process.
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What is a US Student visa?
The student visa is an official document issued by the US State Department. Foreign citizens require a visa to travel to the US for different purposes. For students, an F, M, or J visa is required, depending on their course and study institution.
US student visa fee – 185 USD
Types of US Student visa
| US Student Visa Type | Purpose | Validity |
|---|---|---|
|
F-1 |
Full-time study in the US for academic degrees |
5 years |
|
M-1 |
Full-time study in the US for vocational programs |
1 - 3 years |
|
J-1 |
Exchange study in the US for a short period |
1 year |
F-1 Visa:
The F-1 is the most common visa for international students in the US. It is required to study full-time courses in the US at an accredited institution. F-1 students are allowed to work part-time, up to 20 hours a week.M-1 Visa:
The M-1 visa is required for vocational and non-academic courses in the US. M-1 students can work part-time for 20 hours a week. Such courses are offered in subjects like agriculture, cosmetology, health, pottery, etc.J-1 Visa:
The J-1 visa helps international students participate in exchange programs in the US. They are not allowed to work part-time with a J-1 visa.Eligibility & Documents Required
To be eligible for a US student visa, an international student must meet the following requirements:
- Get admission to and receive an offer letter from an accredited US institution
- Receive Form I-20
- Submit the documents required
- Attend the US visa interview
Documents Required for a US Student Visa
- Passport
- Application fee payment receipt
- Recent photographs
- English proficiency certificate – IELTS/TOEFL/PTE/Duolingo
- Form DS-160 confirmation page
- Form I-20
- Academic transcripts
- Health Insurance
US Visa Interview: Sample Questions
Clearing your visa interview is a crucial part of the whole process. Many applications get rejected due to poor answers to the questions. The interview lasts 10 – 15 minutes, during which your academic intentions and credibility are assessed. Refer to the following sample questions and prepare yourself for the US visa interview.
What is the purpose of visiting the United States?
Explain your academic intentions and make the duration of your stay clear. The consulate officer must be convinced that you are a genuine candidate for the student visa.
How long do you intend to stay in the US?
Answer the question by stating your course duration. The officer will be asking for documents to prove your stay duration plans.
How do you finance your studies in the US?
Every international student must have a reliable source of funding to study in the US. It could be an education loan or self-funding. Provide proof of your funding source while attending the interview.
What are your plans after completing your studies?
Convince the officer of your return plans after completing studies in the US. If you are planning to stay in the US after your studies, explicitly stating so may affect your interview assessment negatively.
What are your connections with your home country?
Talk about your connection with the home country, such as family business, start-up plans, etc. It informs the officer that you will be returning to your home country after completing education in the US.
How to apply for a US Study visa?
US student visa application is online. Follow the steps for an easy application:
- Visit the official website
- Upload the documents
- Pay the application fee
- Book your biometrics appointment
- Schedule your US visa interview
Get complete guidance on how to apply for a US student visa. Join Nomad Credit and get personalized assistance at zero cost.
Attend a mock interview at Nomad Credit and brace yourself for student visa success. Based on your goals, Nomad Credit’s counselor prepares you for the visa interview at zero cost. Starting with profile evaluation, our expert assistance covers tailored guidance on abroad admission, foreign education loan options, and student visa at zero cost. Connect with us today & step into a hassle-free study abroad experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the requirements for a US study visa?
The eligibility requirements for a US student visa include an offer letter from an accredited institution, academic transcripts, finances, and entrance certificates. Refer to the section above for more details
How can I prepare for the US student visa interview?
Refer to the interview questions and be ready to answer confidently. Get in touch with Nomad Credit for holistic guidance today
Is it difficult to get an F-1 visa?
Getting an F-1 visa is easier if you secure admission to an accredited university in the US. Usually, if your documentation is right, you may end up with a study visa success. However, take care to answer the questions correctly
Is there any age restriction for F-1 Visa?
Anyone can apply for an F-1 visa in the US. There is no age limit
How much is the cost of getting a US student visa?
The cost of getting a US student visa includes the application fee of 185 USD plus the cost of attendance for your program mentioned in Form I-20. The study cost is different for each student.
Is it easy to get a US student visa?
Getting a US student visa is not a tough nut to crack if you prepare well. However, the rejection rate is also higher since so many students give unsatisfactory performance during the interview
