US Student Visa Applications Now Open for New Academic Year

Key Takeaways

• F-1 visa allows full-time study at SEVP-approved US schools with on-campus work options.
• Applicants must obtain Form I-20, register in SEVIS, pay fees, and attend visa interviews.
• Visa interviews paused May 27 to June 20, 2025, due to social media screening review.

If you’re planning to study in the United States 🇺🇸, understanding the US Student Visa process is one of the most important steps. The US welcomes hundreds of thousands of international students each year, offering world-class education and a wide range of academic programs. However, the process to get a US Student Visa, especially the F-1 visa, can seem confusing at first. This guide breaks down everything you need to know, from eligibility and application steps to recent policy changes and practical advice for students and families.

What Is a US Student Visa?

A US Student Visa is a special type of visa that allows people from other countries to study in the United States 🇺🇸. There are two main types:

• F-1 Visa: For students attending academic programs at colleges, universities, high schools, or language training programs.
• M-1 Visa: For students attending vocational or technical schools.

Most international students apply for the F-1 visa, as it covers the widest range of academic programs.

Overview of the F-1 Visa

The F-1 visa is the most common student visa for academic studies in the United States 🇺🇸. It allows you to:

• Study full-time at a US school that is approved by the government
• Stay in the US for the duration of your studies, plus a short grace period
• Work part-time on campus and, in some cases, off campus with special permission

To get an F-1 visa, you must first be accepted by a US school and receive a document called Form I-20. This form proves that you have been admitted and are eligible to apply for a student visa.

What Is SEVIS?

SEVIS stands for Student and Exchange Visitor Information System. It is an online system used by the US government to keep track of international students and exchange visitors. Before you can apply for a US Student Visa, you must be registered in SEVIS. Your school will enter your information into SEVIS and give you the Form I-20, which you need for your visa application.

Who Is Eligible for a US Student Visa?

To qualify for an F-1 visa, you must meet these requirements:

• Admission to a SEVP-Approved School: You must be accepted by a school that is certified by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP).
• Full-Time Enrollment: You must plan to study full-time.
• English Proficiency: You must show that you can speak, read, and write English well enough to succeed in your studies, or your school must offer English language training.
• Financial Support: You must prove you have enough money to pay for your education and living expenses while in the US.
• Home Country Ties: You must show that you plan to return to your home country after finishing your studies.

Step-by-Step Guide to the US Student Visa Process

The process for getting a US Student Visa involves several steps. Here’s a clear breakdown:

1. Obtain Admission to a US School

First, you must apply and be accepted to a US school that is approved by SEVP. Once accepted, the school will send you Form I-20.

• Form I-20: This is a key document for your visa application. It contains your personal details, program information, and SEVIS ID number.
• Official Form I-20 information

2. Register in SEVIS

After receiving your Form I-20, you must pay the SEVIS I-901 fee and register in SEVIS. This fee helps cover the cost of maintaining the SEVIS system.

• SEVIS I-901 Fee: You can pay this fee online at fmjfee.com.
• Keep your payment receipt, as you’ll need it for your visa interview.

3. Complete the Visa Application (Form DS-160)

Next, you must fill out the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application (Form DS-160). This form collects your personal and travel information.

• Form DS-160 official page
• After completing the form, print the confirmation page to bring to your interview.

4. Schedule and Attend a Visa Interview

You must schedule a visa interview at a US Embassy or Consulate in your country. Wait times can vary, so it’s best to schedule as early as possible.

• Interview Scheduling: Check your local embassy or consulate website for instructions and wait times.
• Documents to Bring:
  • Valid passport
  • Form I-20
  • DS-160 confirmation page
  • SEVIS fee receipt
  • School admission letter
  • Financial documents (to show you can pay for your studies)
  • Any other documents requested by the embassy

5. Prepare for the Interview

During the interview, a consular officer will ask about your study plans, finances, and ties to your home country. The goal is to make sure you are a genuine student and plan to return home after your studies.

• Common Questions:
  • Why did you choose this school?
  • How will you pay for your education?
  • What are your plans after graduation?
• Financial Documents: While not always required, you may be asked to show bank statements, scholarship letters, or sponsor letters.

6. Receive Your Visa and Plan Your Travel

If your visa is approved, the embassy will place a visa sticker in your passport. You can enter the United States 🇺🇸 up to 30 days before your program start date (as listed on your Form I-20).

• New Students: Can apply for a visa up to 365 days before the course start date, but cannot enter the US more than 30 days before classes begin.
• Continuing Students: If you are already enrolled and in SEVIS, you can apply for a visa at any time.

Recent Policy Changes and Updates

Temporary Pause and Resumption of Visa Interviews

On May 27, 2025, the US Department of State temporarily paused new visa interviews for F-1 and J-1 applicants. This pause was to review procedures related to social media screening as part of the visa application process. As of June 20, 2025, the pause has been lifted, and visa interviews have resumed.

• Why the Pause?: The government wanted to review how they check applicants’ social media as part of security screening.
• Current Status: Interviews for F-1 and J-1 visas are now being scheduled again.

This change is important for students planning to start their studies in the upcoming academic year, as it allows them to move forward with their applications and travel plans.

Social Media Screening

The US government sometimes reviews visa applicants’ social media as part of the security process. This is to help ensure the safety of people in the United States 🇺🇸. The recent pause in interviews shows that these procedures can change, so it’s important to stay updated by checking official sources.

Practical Implications for Students and Families

The resumption of visa interviews means students can now continue their plans to study in the United States 🇺🇸. However, it’s wise to:

• Apply Early: Visa processing and interview wait times can be long, especially before the start of the academic year.
• Check for Updates: Policies can change quickly. Always check the US Department of State website and your local embassy or consulate for the latest information.
• Prepare Documents Carefully: Missing or incorrect documents can cause delays or denials.

Rights and Responsibilities of F-1 Visa Holders

Once you have your F-1 visa and arrive in the United States 🇺🇸, you must follow certain rules:

• Full-Time Study: You must remain enrolled full-time at your school.
• Work Restrictions: You can work up to 20 hours per week on campus during the school year. Off-campus work is only allowed with special permission, such as Optional Practical Training (OPT) or Curricular Practical Training (CPT).
• SEVIS Updates: You must keep your SEVIS record up to date. Tell your school if you change your address, major, or program.
• Grace Period: After finishing your studies, you have 60 days to leave the US, transfer to another school, or apply for a change of status.

Pathways After Graduation

Many students want to stay in the United States 🇺🇸 after graduation for work experience. The F-1 visa offers some options:

• Optional Practical Training (OPT): Lets you work in your field of study for up to 12 months after graduation. STEM graduates may be eligible for a 24-month extension.
• Curricular Practical Training (CPT): Allows work or internships during your studies if required by your program.
• Changing Status: Some students later apply for H-1B work visas or other types of visas if they find a job in the US.

Real-World Example: A Student’s Journey

Let’s look at a typical case. Maria, a student from Brazil 🇧🇷, wants to study engineering at a university in the United States 🇺🇸. Here’s how she goes through the process:

1. Admission: Maria applies to several US universities and is accepted by one.
2. Form I-20: The university sends her Form I-20 after she provides proof of finances.
3. SEVIS Registration: Maria pays the SEVIS I-901 fee and registers in SEVIS.
4. Visa Application: She fills out Form DS-160 and schedules her interview at the US Embassy in Brasília.
5. Interview: Maria brings all her documents, answers questions about her study plans, and shows her financial documents.
6. Visa Approval: Her visa is approved, and she receives her passport with the F-1 visa sticker.
7. Travel: Maria enters the United States 🇺🇸 20 days before her classes start.

Maria’s experience shows the importance of being organized, applying early, and following each step carefully.

Common Questions About the US Student Visa

Q: Can I bring my family with me?
A: Yes, your spouse and children can apply for F-2 visas to join you in the US. They cannot work but can study part-time.

Q: What if my visa is denied?
A: The consular officer will explain the reason. You can reapply if you address the problem, such as providing more documents.

Q: How long does the process take?
A: It varies by country and time of year. Start as early as possible to avoid delays.

Q: What is SEVIS and why is it important?
A: SEVIS is the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System. It tracks your status as a student in the US. You must keep your SEVIS record up to date at all times.

Key Stakeholders in the US Student Visa Process

• US Department of State: Sets visa policies and issues visas.
• US Embassies and Consulates: Conduct interviews and make final decisions.
• Educational Institutions: Issue Form I-20 and support students through the process.
• Students and Families: Must provide accurate information and follow all rules.

Staying Informed: Official Resources

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always use official government sources:

• US Department of State – Student Visas: Details on visa types, application steps, and policies.
• SEVIS Information: Learn more about SEVIS and your responsibilities as a student.

As reported by VisaVerge.com, keeping up with official updates is key, especially as policies can change quickly due to security reviews or other government decisions.

Practical Tips for a Successful Application

• Start Early: Begin the process as soon as you receive your admission letter.
• Stay Organized: Keep all your documents in one place and make copies.
• Practice Interview Questions: Be ready to explain your study plans and finances.
• Check Embassy Websites: Each embassy may have different requirements or procedures.
• Monitor Your Email: Embassies and schools may send important updates or requests for more information.

Conclusion and Next Steps

The US Student Visa process, especially for the F-1 visa, is detailed but manageable if you follow each step carefully. Make sure you:

• Get accepted by a SEVP-approved school
• Receive your Form I-20 and register in SEVIS
• Pay the SEVIS fee and complete Form DS-160
• Schedule and attend your visa interview with all required documents
• Stay informed about policy changes and embassy updates

By preparing early and using official resources, you can increase your chances of a smooth and successful application. Remember, the rules can change, so always check the latest information from the US Department of State and your local embassy. Good luck with your studies in the United States 🇺🇸!

Learn Today

F-1 Visa → A student visa for academic programs at US schools, allowing full-time study and limited work.
Form I-20 → A document issued by US schools proving admission and eligibility for an F-1 visa.
SEVIS → Student and Exchange Visitor Information System, tracking international students for US immigration control.
SEVIS I-901 Fee → Payment required to maintain SEVIS records before applying for a US student visa.
Visa Interview → An embassy or consulate meeting assessing a visa applicant’s study intentions and qualifications.

This Article in a Nutshell

The US Student Visa process, mainly the F-1 visa, enables international students to study full-time, work part-time on campus, and stay during their program, requiring Form I-20, SEVIS registration, fee payment, and a visa interview at a US embassy or consulate before travel.
— By VisaVerge.com