If you want to study in the United States, you must apply for the F-1 student visa, the most common visa for academic programs. After admission to an SEVP-approved institution, you’ll receive Form I-20, pay the SEVIS fee, complete DS-160, and attend a visa interview. With proper documents and financial proof, approval is achievable.
Over 1 million international students study in the U.S. each year; here’s how you can join them.
What Is the F-1 Student Visa?
The F-1 visa is a non-immigrant visa for students enrolled in academic programs at institutions certified by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP).
Your authorized stay is listed on Form I-20. You must complete your degree before the program end date shown on that form.
After graduation, you may apply for:
- Optional Practical Training (OPT) – up to 12 months
- 24-month STEM extension (for eligible majors)
- Later, possibly H-1B visa if sponsored by an employer
If no extension is approved, you must leave the U.S. within 60 days after program completion.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply for an F-1 Vis
Get Accepted by an SEVP-Certified School
After admission, the university issues your Form I-20.
Pay the SEVIS Fee
Pay the SEVIS I-901 fee (currently $350).
Complete DS-160 Form
Submit the Form DS-160 online and print confirmation.
Pay Visa Application Fee
F-1 visa fee: $160
Schedule & Attend Visa Interview
Book your appointment at the U.S. Embassy/Consulate in your country.
Total Estimated Visa Cost
- SEVIS Fee: $350
- Visa Application Fee: $160
- Total Minimum: $510
Additional costs may include document courier services or biometric fees (country dependent).
F-1 Visa Requirements
To qualify, you must:
✔ Be admitted to an SEVP-approved institution
✔ Enroll full-time
✔ Show proof of financial support
✔ Demonstrate strong ties to your home country
✔ Hold a passport valid at least 6 months beyond stay
Financial Requirement
There is no official fixed amount, but most applicants show USD 18,000–25,000 for one academic year (tuition + living costs).
Required Documents for F-1 Visa
Bring these to your interview:
- Valid passport
- Form I-20
- SEVIS payment receipt
- DS-160 confirmation page
- Visa appointment confirmation
- Passport photos
- Academic transcripts & certificates
- Bank statements / sponsorship letters
- Scholarship documents (if any)
- Proof of intent to return home
Can F-1 Students Work in the USA?
Yes, but with restrictions:
During Studies:
- Up to 20 hours/week on campus
During Breaks:
- Full-time on campus
After Graduation:
- OPT (12 months)
- STEM OPT extension (24 additional months)
Work must relate to your field of study for OPT eligibility.
Benefits of the USA Student Visa (F-1)
World-Class Education
Home to institutions like:
- Harvard University
- Stanford University
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Degrees are globally respected.
Career Opportunities
OPT and STEM extensions offer up to 3 years of U.S. work experience.
Cultural Diversity
The U.S. hosts students from over 200 countries.
Research & Innovation
Strong leadership in tech, healthcare, AI, and engineering research.
Flexible Education System
You can change majors, add minors, and customize study paths.
How to Increase Your Visa Approval Chances
Prepare a Clear Study Plan
Explain:
- Why this university?
- Why this major?
- How it supports your career goals?
Show Strong Home Country Ties
Property, family, and job prospects prove you intend to return.
Maintain Clean Financial Records
Avoid sudden large unexplained deposits.
Practice Interview Questions
Common questions:
- Why the U.S.?
- Who is funding you?
- What will you do after graduation?
Conclusion
The F-1 visa process is structured and manageable if you follow each step carefully: admission, SEVIS payment, DS-160, interview preparation, and financial documentation. With over one million international students currently in the U.S., your dream of studying there is achievable with proper planning.
If you prepare early and present a clear academic purpose, your chances of approval significantly increase.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is IELTS required for a USA student visa?
IELTS is not a visa requirement but may be required by your university. Most schools require IELTS 6.5 overall (varies by program).
How much money is required?
Generally $18,000+ for one year, depending on tuition and city.
Is it difficult to get an F-1 visa?
Approval depends on financial proof, academic intent, and strong home ties.
Can I stay in the U.S. permanently after study?
F-1 is temporary, but many students transition to OPT → H-1B → Green Card pathways.
