What to Expect when Applying for Your Student Visa
Before submitting any application for a student visa, you first must be certified as a potential United States student. The school you are planning on attending must be approved by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigrant Services (USCIS).
The second step prior to applying for your student visa involves you being registered by your intended school. Your school needs to register you (enter your information into the system) for the I-20 Student and Exchange Visitor Informant System (SEVIS). Your school will provide you with this form. You and your school official must sign this I-20 form. You, as well as your spouse and/or any dependents must be registered in the SEVIS system. You will pay a fee for this.
After this, you need to schedule an interview with an immigration official at your Embassy Consular. Interviews are by appointment only, so call be sure to call ahead. The interview process time itself varies according to individual applicants. Some people will need additional screening, and will be notified of so when they apply. Also, because each student’s personal and academic situation is different, two students applying for the same visa may have different situations and requirements. They will be asked different questions and be required to submit different documents. Waiting times vary according to the respective U.S. Embassy or Consultant. Of course, the earlier you schedule your interview, the better.
Next, a quick, two digit, ink-free fingerprint scan will be taken from you. This is considered a form of identification.
Items to bring with you (in addition to the I-20):
1. A valid passport with you, expiring no later than 6 months from arrival into the U.S.
2. Proof of your financial capabilities of paying for your education and living expenses. This can include bank statements, tax documents, etc.
3. A current photograph of yourself, preferably a 2″x2″ size.
4. Transcripts from any previous educational endeavors, if available.
5. Scores from standardized tests required by the educational institution such as the GRE, GMAT, SAT, etc.
6. If you are bringing your spouse or dependent, carry with you proof of their identify (birth certificate, etc.)
7. A receipt showing you paid the SEVIS fee and visa application fee.
Know that applying for your student visa takes a lot of work and time. The entire application process does not guarantee a visa. However, once obtained, the visa can be used until its expiration date.
