US Student Visa: A step-by-step guide to achieving your dream of studying in America

F-1 visa is for full-time students enrolled in academic or language training programs. (Reuters)

By Madhur Gujar

Dreaming of studying in the USA? Studying in the United States is a dream for many students around the world. The land of opportunity offers top-notch education and diverse cultural experiences.

Studying in the USA has many benefits, such as access to over 5,000 prestigious universities, and an emphasis on learning beyond academics. These courses advance career skills and allow students to explore different cultures.

The United States of America (USA) is one of the top places for Indian students looking to study abroad. According to US Consulate sources, 1,057,188 foreign students are enrolled in US higher education institutions, of whom 2,68,923 are from India.

Before you can start the exciting journey there is an important step to getting your USA student visa. It might seem a bit scary, but do not worry!

By figuring out what you need for your visa, you are one step closer to making your dreams come true.

Firstly, determine your student visa type. The most common one is the F-1 visa. It is for full-time students enrolled in academic or language training programs. If you are pursuing non-academic or vocational studies, the M-1 visa is the one for you.

Moreover, the J-1 visa, also known as the Exchange Visitor Visa or J-student visa, is for anyone outside of the US who wishes to take part in study- and work-related exchange programs approved by the Department of State Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs.

Secondly, University applications come out in March or April. Once accepted, you will receive either Form I-20 for F-1 and M-1 student visa or Form DS-2019 for J-1 student visa from your school.

Thirdly, after getting your form, you will need to pay the SEVIS I-901 fee online. The cost is $350 for F-1/M-1 students and $220 for J-1 students.

Fourthly, find the nearest US embassy or consulate to apply for your visa. You can search online through the US Department of State. Then, fill out the online DS-160 form, where you will provide information about yourself and choose the embassy for your visa interview.

Fifthly, after completing the form, contact the embassy to schedule your visa interview. Make sure to pay the $185 visa application fee beforehand. Attend your visa interview, which is the final step in the application process. Your eligibility to study in the USA will be determined based on this interview.

Finally, the consular officer will assess whether you genuinely aim to pursue academic research in the US. So, be punctual and calm and dress appropriately. Research common questions and prepare your answers beforehand.

Provide clear answers, organise your documents, stay calm, and avoid alcohol before the interview.

Remember, the visa interview is your chance to show your genuine intention to study in the USA. Stay confident and positive throughout the process, and you will be one step closer to achieving your dreams!

It is the final step before embarking on your educational adventure in the land of opportunity.

By understanding the visa requirements and navigating the application process with confidence, you are one step closer to realising your dreams of studying in the USA.

(Author is Co-Founder & CBO at Amber)