Content Curator | Updated On - Jan 18, 2024
American Student Visa: IIE Survey recorded a surge in the number of international applications for USA universities, post the relaxation in travel restrictions. In 2024, Indian students planning to study in USA can choose from over 4,000 top USA universities. Currently, there are 200,000+ students from India studying in USA. They make up more than 25% of all international students in the country.;
Though admissions there are highly competitive, USA student visa is still the most applied visa throughout the world. Last year, a record number of 125,000 Indians received student visas, which was more than any other nationality. A latest report by the US Mission in India shows that over 90,000 American Student Visa were issued in June, July, and August alone. This means that one in four student visas in the entire world were granted in India.
America Student Visa Key Facts
- Prospective students can choose from three types of student visa in USA based on their travel intent and course type- F Visa, M Visa, and J Visa.
- The application fee for an American Student Visa is 185 USD (~15,380 INR).
- Applicants between the ages of 14-79 need to attend a USA Student Visa interview. Other applicants are considered as special cases.
- Starting May 12, 2023, International students coming to USA (who are not citizens or immigrants) don't have to prove that they have received all the COVID-19 vaccine doses.
American Student Visa Latest Updates
- Starting from November 27, 2023, students applying for F, M, and J visas must use their own passport information when creating their visa profile and scheduling appointments. This measure is in place to prevent fraud and misuse of the appointment system.
- F and M visa applicants should enroll in a school or program certified by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP). J visa applicants must receive sponsorship from an organization approved by the Department of State.
- The US Embassy and its consulates in India achieved a significant milestone by issuing over 140,000 student visas between October 2022 and September 2023.
- From May 30, 2023, the US Student Visa fees was set to increase from 160 USD (13,300 INR) to 185 USD (15,380 INR). However, those students who had applied for their student visas on or before October 1, 2022, were not charged the new fee until September 30, 2023.
American Student Visa Type
What are the types of student visa in USA? USA student visa is categorized into various types according to the travel reasons, course duration and intakes in USA. The United States Student Visa is further classified into 3 types, depending on the program type and course duration. The 3 types of student visa in USA are F visa, M visa and J visa.
American Student Visa Type: F Visa
The F visa is required for admission to full-time programs in the institutes in USA. F1 student visa for USA is valid for up to 5 years for Indian students. International students with F1 visa USA status can work part-time, on campus for less than 20 hours a week. The F visa can be classified into 3 subcategories, F-1, F-2 and F-3 visa. The following table portrays the types of F visa and their benefits:
| F Visa Types | Eligibility | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| F1 visa | International students enrolling to a full-time program in a SEVP approved US institute | Part time employment for a maximum of 20 hours per week. Temporary employment permission provided, students can attend 12 month OPT after graduation |
| F2 visa | Dependents of F-1 visa holders, usually family members like spouse or children | F-2 visa holders can study part time postsecondary programs and full time elementary courses in USA |
| F3 Visa | Canadian students staying in their home country while attending full-time or part-time programs at US institutes | F-3 visa applicants can avail US Green Card. This allows them the work permit in USA |
American Student Visa Type: M Visa
M visa is provided to the non-academic students pursuing vocational courses or training in USA. The maximum duration of stay in USA with an M visa is 1 year. The 3 different types of M visa are tabulated below:
| M Visa Type | Eligibility | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| M1 visa | Students pursuing vocational and non-academic programs in USA | Permission to work in USA (with certain restrictions), access healthcare, driver’s license, banks and other facilities in USA |
| M2 visa | Dependents of M-1 visa holders, generally spouse or children | M 2 visa holders can pursue education in elementary and vocational schools in USA. They can travel in and outside of USA anytime. |
| M3 visa | Mexican and Canadian national commuter vocational students | - |
American Student Visa Type: J Visa
The J visa is the US exchange visa and is provided to students enrolled in exchange visitor programs in USA. J visas can be classified into 2 types, J-1 and J-2.
| J Visa Type | Eligibility |
|---|---|
| J1 visa | Nonimmigrant individuals studying an exchange visitor program in USA |
| J2 visa | Dependents of J1 visa holders |
USA Student Visa Requirements
What are the eligibility criteria for a USA student visa? Indian students should prepare themselves with an array of documents before their US visa application and interview. The basic documents required for a USA study visa are:
- Valid Passport for Travel to USA: A passport which is valid for 6 months beyond the period of stay in USA.
- Nonimmigrant Visa Application: Confirmation page of form DS-160.
- Form I-20 USA: Students must demonstrate form I-20, signed by themselves and school officials. The spouse and children of the applicant can also avail individual I-20 form.
- Application Fee Payment Receipt: For students who need to pay fees of 185 USD before the interview.
- SEVIS Fee: Students need to pay a Student & Exchange Visitor Information System fee (SEVIS Fee) along with the student visa application fee. SEVIS is an automated system used to keep track of the exchange visitors and students in USA.
- Photo: Applicants should upload their photo while filling the application form. In case of photo upload failure, applicants can bring their printed photo in the guided format.
Required Supporting Documents for American Student Visa
The additional documents required for an American student visa application are:
- Academic Preparations: Transcripts, degrees, diplomas, or certificates from schools they have attended.
- Scores of standardized exams to study in USA.
- Proof of availability of sufficient funds to support education, living and travel expenses. Although there is no set amount, students should have at least 1.5 times the amount mentioned in form I-20.
- Proof of the applicant’s determination to leave USA after completion of their program. This includes any one of the following: A copy of the home title or rent agreement, signed proof of the financial stability of the parents and other family members in the home country, return tickets, and related documents.
USA Student Visa Process
The application process of an American student visa involves several consecutive steps. The basic steps to apply for the visa are as follows:
- Step 1: Complete the online nonimmigrant visa application through form DS-160.
- Step 2: Upload your photo according to the required format.
- Step 3: Print the confirmation page of the application form and keep it for the interview.
- Step 4: Schedule an interview appointment at the nearest US Embassy or Consulate in your home country. Students can apply from a US Embassy or Consulate outside their country but in that case it will be tough to qualify for the visa.
- Step 5: Pay the non-refundable visa application fee of 185 USD (~15,380 INR).
- Step 6: Pay the one time SEVIS fee for an uninterrupted period of F1, M1 or J1 status.
- Step 7: Assemble the required documents for the America student visa interview.
- Step 8: Attend the USA Study Visa Interview, on confirmation of visa approval, visit to study in USA.
US Student Visa appointment
To set up your visa interview, go to the US Embassy or Consulate in the country where you live.;
| Age Group | Interview Requirement |
|---|---|
| 13 and younger | Generally not required |
| 14 - 79 | Required (Some exceptions for renewals) |
| 80 and older | Generally not required |
The wait times for interview appointments vary depending on the location, season, and visa category. For example, in New Delhi, the wait times for different visa types are as follows:
- Students/Exchange Visitors (F, M, J): Interview Required - 259 Days
- Petition-Based Temporary Workers (H, L, O, P, Q): Interview Required - 63 Days
- Crew and Transit (C, D, C1/D): Interview Required - 41 Days
- Visitors (B1/B2): Interview Required - 259 Days
Students who are applying for F and M visas can apply as early as 365 days before their course begins. But, they are only allowed to enter USA with their student visa up to 30 days before the start date of their course.
To check the wait time for your visa interview appointment, click here!;
US Student Visa Fees
How much is US student visa fees? The universities in USA charge no additional fees for visa applications. Students should consider the visa application fees within the estimated budget to study in USA. The following table provides the USA student visa application fees at various levels:
| Fee Type | Cost in USD | Equivalent Cost in INR |
|---|---|---|
| Non-petition based nonimmigrant visa | 185 | 15,380 |
| Petition based visa | 205 | 17,040 |
| Border Crossing Card Fees | 185 | 15,380 |
| SEVIS Fee for F visa applicants | 350 | 29,100 |
| SEVIS Fee for M visa applicants | 350 | 29,100 |
| SEVIS Fee for J visa applicants | 220 | 18,290 |
| SEVIS Fee for special J visa categories | 35 | 2,910 |
| SEVIS Fee for Government visitor | 0 | 0 |
Indian students who wish to study in USA can look for scholarships for Indian students in USA in order to ease the financial strain of studying abroad.
USA Student Visa from India
Can I get a USA student visa from India?
- India, the 2nd largest international student contributor in USA after China and focuses mostly on the STEM courses in USA.
- In the peak season of June-August 2023, the US Embassy and Consulates in India issued more than 95,000 F, M, and J student visas, marking an 18% increase compared to the same period in 2022. This indicates a more welcoming approach towards Indian students.
- Indian students and visitors heading to USA can expect more visa appointment slots and processing centers, as the US consulate is actively working to reduce wait times.
- Certain countries, like India, experienced a surge in visa approvals even while the overall rejection rate remained significant. In 2023, the US Embassy in India issued a record number of student visas, suggesting a more flexible approach in certain situations.
USA Student Visa Drop Box Appointments
Recent Updates
The H1B visa is like a golden opportunity for Indian professionals who want to work in USA. However, getting this visa involves a lot of paperwork and anxious waiting. If you choose the Dropbox option, the time it takes to process your application can be a big concern. Check out the latest H1B Visa Dropbox Processing Times at India Consulates to read more!
- US Consular offices in India are considering a few drop box applications for renewal of an American student visa.
- Applicants can request for F, M, J, H, L, C1/ D, O, and I visas at the US visa application centers.
- Students can check their eligibility for drop box processing in the official website of the US Embassy and Consulates in India.
USA Study Visa Interview Process
How can I pass the US study visa interview? Indian students need to demonstrate exceptional commitment towards obtaining the visa to study in USA in the interview session. USA Study Visa Interview is similar to a job interview to some extent. Following are some of the common questions asked in the US student visa interview.
- Why do you want to study in USA?
- How many US institutes did you apply to?
- From which universities did you get an offer of place?
- Can you tell me some details about the organization and the program you have opted for?
- Have you been to USA before?
- Do you have any relatives/acquaintances in USA?
- Where are you planning on staying in USA?
- What are you planning to do post completing your graduation?
- How are you financing your studies?
- How will you manage the cost of living in USA?
- Did you receive any scholarships?
- Are you planning to get back to your home country? When and Why?
Applicants can also check out USA F-1 Visa Interview Questions before applying for a USA student visa.
Watch the video below to know more about the Influencing Factors & Mistakes regarding the USA Study Visa Interview!
USA Student Visa Rejection Reasons
What are the common reasons for USA student visa rejection? The US Embassy or Consulate at your home country might reject your USA Student Visa applications due to one of the following reasons:
- Inability to clearly mention the purpose of USA visit.
- Reflecting a hidden intention to stay and make post study plans in USA once the program is completed.
- Demonstration of false documents or lack of documents can lead to visa denial.
- Inability to demonstrate the availability of sufficient funds to finance your visit to USA.
- The program or the university you have applied to is suspicious.
- You have close family members already staying in USA can also be considered as a minor reason for you staying back in the country which can lead to the US visa rejection.
- Application for a wrong type of US visa is yet another reason for US visa denial.
- Past criminal records could be adverse while applying to USA student visa.
- A lot of refusals and overstays on previous journeys can have a negative impact.
- Poor relationships between home countries and USA also lead to denials. Fortunately, currently this is not the case in India.
Avoid Rejection of American Student Visa
How to avoid USA student visa rejection? A few tips to clear a USA study visa interview on the first go are here.
- Dress Properly: Your attire reflects your personality. Since it is a formal event, your choice of clothes should win half the battle.
- Carry all Documents: Cross check the required documents multiple times before leaving for the interview. Carry all the documents, supporting documents and essentials.
- Avoid Prohibited Items: Do not carry food, mobile phones or similar items that can ruin your impression.
- Provide Accurate Answers: Be precise with your answers instead of playing around. Try not to sound rehearsed, reflect honesty and confidence through your answers.
- Clarify Your Intent: State the exact reasons for choosing a particular university in USA and program.
- Demonstrate Your Commitment: Explain your reasons for studying in USA and future plans. Convince the interviewer that your purpose in USA is genuine.
- Enhance English Fluency: As the interview will be conducted majorly in English, your proficiency in the language will be focused on by the interviewer. However, if you have applied for an English language course in USA, you can convey the same to the concerned person.
- React to Your Interviewer: While it is essential that you be yourself in the US visa interview, it is equally important to adapt to your interviewer’s perspective. If the person seems interested in your answers, then explain in detail. Otherwise stick to short and content answers.
Note: The US Embassy and Consulates appreciate punctuality. Always try to appear 20 minutes before the scheduled time, however, do not go hours before the interview.
US Embassy and Consulates in India
How to contact the US Embassy and Consulates in India? Following are the address and contact details of the US Embassy and Consulates in India:
US Embassy New Delhi:
Shantipath, Chanakyapuri
New Delhi - 110021
Phone: 011-91-11-2419-8000
Fax: 011-91-11-2419-0017
US Consulate General Chennai:
Gemini Circle
Chennai 600 006
Phone: (91 44) 2857-4000
(91 44) 2811-2000
Fax: (91 44) 2811-2020
US Consulate General Kolkata:
5/1, Ho Chi Minh Sarani,
Kolkata - 700 071,
West Bengal, India.
Tel: 91-(33)-6827-2400
Fax: 91-(33)-2282-2335
US Consulate General Hyderabad:
Survey No. 115/1, Financial District,
Nanakramguda, Hyderabad, Telangana, 500032
Phone: +91 040 6932 8000For Consular Services, please call: +91 22 62011000Callers from USA should direct their telephone inquiries to +1-703-520-2239.
US Consulate General Mumbai:
C-49, G-Block, Bandra Kurla Complex
Bandra East, Mumbai 400051
Phone: (91-22) 2672-4000
In a nutshell, USA student visa application process may seem a little complex with limited travel ban policies; the rate of rejection has only gone higher in the past two years. Hence, if a student understands all the processes and requirements involved carefully, he/she will not face any hindrances and will successfully obtain a visa to study in USA.
FAQs
Ques: How can I get a student visa in USA?
Ans: Indian students should prepare themselves with an array of documents before their US visa application and interview. The basic documents required for a USA study visa are:
- Valid Passport for Travel to USA
- Nonimmigrant Visa Application: Confirmation page of form DS-160.
- Form I-20 USA
- Application Fee Payment Receipt: For students who need to pay fees of 185 USD before the interview.
- SEVIS Fee
- Photo: Applicants should upload their photo while filling the application form
- Academic Preparations: Transcripts, degrees, diplomas, or certificates from schools they have attended.
- Scores of standardized exams to study in USA.
- Proof of availability of sufficient funds to support education, living and travel expenses.;
- Proof of the applicant’s determination to leave USA after completion of their program.;
Ques: How long is a student visa valid in USA?
Ans: The F-1 student visa duration is typically 5 years. However, it may expire even before 5 years in some cases. F-1 students are allowed to stay in USA up to 60 days after the estimated course span.
Ques: Is USA giving student visas?
Ans: As of now, the USA is welcoming international students with a visa to study in USA with a few exceptions. The United States government offers three student visa types including F, J, and M. Before applying to the USA student visa, applicants need to be accepted by a SEVP approved institution in the USA.
Ques: How much bank balance is required for a USA student visa?
Ans: There is no stipulated minimum amount of bank balance required for a US student visa. However, students might need to demonstrate availability of sufficient finance to fund their course in USA. The application cost of a USA student visa is 185 USD (~15,380 INR). Additionally, a SEVIS Fee of 350 USD (~29,100 INR) is required.;
Ques: What is the minimum age for a USA student visa?
Ans: There's no official minimum age to apply for a USA student visa. As long as you've been accepted to a SEVP-certified school in USA, you can apply for an F-1 or M-1 visa at any age. However the interview requirements vary by age:
| Age Group | Interview Requirement |
|---|---|
| 13 and younger | Generally not required |
| 14 - 79 | Required (Some exceptions for renewals) |
| 80 and older | Generally not required |
Ques: Can I stay in USA after my student visa expires?
Ans: Yes, you can stay in USA after the student visa expires until you maintain the student status. However, if the student is returning home or traveling to another country where automatic revalidation does not apply, they must have a valid visa to return back to USA.
Ques: Who can sponsor a USA student visa?
Ans: For USA student visa, applicants need to display sponsorship from family members, Government, grants from government or private organizations. A student can have more than 1 sponsor to demonstrate the total amount required. This is required to prove that the students are capable of bearing the cost of studying in USA and living cost in USA.
Ques: What is the five months rule for education in USA?
Ans: The five-month rule authorizes the termination of Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) due to being away from classes for five months or not being in status.
Ques: What are the types of USA student visa?
Ans: There are 3 types of US student visa, F1, J1, and M visa. The F1 visa is for international students enrolled in a full-time program in a registered US institute. The J1 visa is for non-immigrant students pursuing an exchange course. The M visa allows vocational and non-academic students to pursue education in USA.;
Ques: Is getting a US student visa difficult?
Ans: US student visa has an acceptance rate of 85%. The eligibility criteria and parameters for US student visa are quite superior. Students need to provide a strong proof of willingness to return to the home country after completion of education. Furthermore, academic and language skills along with financial stability are significant in the US student visa selection process.
Ques: Can I stay in USA after my studies?
Ans: Yes, meritorious students enrolled in a regular OPT (optional practical training) or a STEM OPT are allowed to stay in USA even after completion of studies. For a regular OPT, the students can stay in USA for 1 year and for a STEM OPT, the duration of stay can be extended up to 3 years.;
1691642197.png?tr=w-305,h-145,c-force?h=175&w=350&mode=stretch)
1691641860.png?tr=w-305,h-145,c-force?h=175&w=350&mode=stretch)
1691584547.png?tr=w-305,h-145,c-force?h=175&w=350&mode=stretch)
1691583251.png?tr=w-305,h-145,c-force?h=175&w=350&mode=stretch)
Comments