How to Apply for a US Student Visa in 2025 Step-by-Step Guide for International Students

Determining Which U.S. Student Visa You Need?

Before studying in the U.S. as an international student, you must apply for and receive a U.S. student visa. By receiving a student visa, you are allowed to temporarily reside in the U.S. for the purposes of completing your education. 

According to the U.S. Department of State, there are three different types of U.S. student visas available to international students, each better suited to different circumstances: the F-1 visa, the M-1 visa, and the J-1 Visa.

It is important to note that international students cannot study in the U.S. with a visitor visa or as a part of the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). 

U.S. Student Visa Fees

The student visa USA cost can include:

• SEVIS Fee: $350 for F-1 visas.
• Visa Application Fee: Typically $160.
• Visa Issuance Fee: May apply in some cases, depending on your nationality.
• These fees add to the overall student visa USA cost, which can also include medical exams, document translation, and travel expenses

Step-by-Step Visa Process

The USA study visa process involves several steps:

Step 1: Obtain School Acceptance: You must first apply to U.S. schools and receive an offer. Once accepted, the school will issue your I-20 form.

Step 2: Pay SEVIS Fee: After receiving the I-20 form, pay the SEVIS fee (typically $350 for F-1 visas) before applying for the visa.

Step 3: Complete the DS-160 Form: Fill out the online visa application form, which gathers your personal details, passport information, and the purpose of your visit.

Step 4: Schedule a Visa Interview: After submitting the form, schedule an interview at the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.

Step 5: Attend Interview: During the interview, you'll be asked questions about your education plans, financial situation, and intent to return home. Bring the required documents for a US student visa, like your passport, I-20 form, SEVIS receipt, and proof of funds.

Visa Interview Guidelines:

• Be prepared to explain your academic goals.
• Show strong ties to India (family, career plans).
• Avoid memorised answers, keep it natural.

Step 6: Wait for Visa Approval: Once your interview is completed, wait for American student visa approval. If approved, your visa will be stamped in your passport.

Student Cover guides students for visa applications as part of the services when they enroll for Admission counseling process

Where to Apply

If you are wondering how to apply for a student visa in the USA from India, there are several US consulates and embassies in India where you can schedule your interview. To find your nearest US embassy location, see the links below:

• Chennai
• Hyderabad
• Kolkata
• Mumbai
• New Delhi

When to apply:

• You can apply for your visa up to 120 days before your program begins.
• You can enter the U.S. up to 30 days before your program start date.

Eligibility & Requirements

• Acceptance at SEVP-Approved School

• Must be accepted by a SEVP-approved school.
• Receive Form I-20 (Certificate of Eligibility).
• Pay the SEVIS I-901 fee.
• Spouse/children (F-2/M-2 visas) must also get their own Form I-20.

• F1 Student Visa USA Requirements

The USA student visa requirements include:

• Valid Passport: Must be valid for six months beyond your intended stay.
• Form I-20: Issued by the U.S. school you will attend.
• Proof of Funds: Show you can afford tuition and living costs.
• English Proficiency: TOEFL or IELTS scores (advisable if not  required by the school)
• Valid passport (6 months beyond stay)
• Form I-20 or DS-2019
• SEVIS fee receipt
• DS-160 confirmation page
• Visa fee payment receipt
• Proof of funds (bank statements, scholarship letters)
• Academic records & test scores
• Proof of ties to home country

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Forgetting to pay the SEVIS fee before the interview.
• Applying too late (visa slots fill up).
• Not carrying proof of finances.
• Arriving more than 30 days before the program start date.

Arriving in the U.S.: Next Steps

• Once you land in the United States on an F or M visa, there are a few important steps you must complete to stay in compliance:
• Entry timeline: You may enter the U.S. no more than 30 days before your program start date.
• Check in with your DSO immediately: Contact your Designated School Official (DSO) as soon as you arrive in the U.S.
• Report by program start date: You must check in with your DSO again no later than the program start date listed on your Form I-20, Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status.
• Maintain a valid status: Attend classes, follow visa rules, and keep your passport and I-20 valid at all times.

Work Opportunities for International Students

While studying in the U.S. on an F-1 student visa, you are primarily expected to focus on your academics. However, there are limited employment opportunities available under specific conditions.

On-Campus Jobs

• Allowed up to 20 hours per week during the academic term.
• Can work full-time during school breaks (summer, winter).
• Jobs are typically within the university — library, dining hall, research labs, or administrative offices.

Curricular Practical Training (CPT)

• Allows students to gain practical experience related to their field of study.
• Must be an integral part of your curriculum (internships, cooperative education programs, etc.).
• Requires authorization from your Designated School Official (DSO) and must be approved before you start working.

Optional Practical Training (OPT)

• Offers up to 12 months of employment authorization in your field of study.
• Can be used during (pre-completion OPT) or after graduation (post-completion OPT).
• Requires approval from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

STEM OPT Extension

• Students with a degree in Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics (STEM) may apply for a 24-month OPT extension.
• Extends the total OPT period to 36 months.
• Employer must be E-Verify registered.

 Severe Economic Hardship

• Available if you face unexpected financial difficulties (such as loss of sponsorship, currency devaluation, or tuition increases).
• Must prove hardship and receive employment authorization from USCIS.
• Work does not need to be related to your field of study.

The first step to working on an F-1 visa is connecting with your Designated School Official (DSO). Since your DSO must approve and record any employment you take on, it’s important to stay in regular contact with them during your job search. They can also guide you, answer questions, and point you toward eligible opportunities. In most cases, you’ll need to be enrolled and actively pursuing your degree for at least 12 months before qualifying for work. Your Shorelight advisor can also support you in understanding F-1 visa employment rules, so don’t hesitate to reach out for guidance.

Conclusion

Obtaining a U.S. student visa can feel like a complex process, but breaking it down into steps makes it manageable. By identifying the right visa type (F-1, J-1, or M-1), preparing all required documents, and carefully following the application process, you can set yourself up for success. Remember to maintain compliance after you arrive in the U.S. by staying in touch with your Designated School Official (DSO), keeping your documents valid, and following visa regulations. With the right preparation, your U.S. study journey can be smooth, rewarding, and full of opportunities for academic and personal growth.