USA Student Visa Process (F1 Visa)
Step-by-Step Guide
Understand everything about the F1 visa process for Indian and international students
from the I-20 form and DS-160 to visa fees, embassy interviews, and post-visa next steps.
What Is the F1 Student Visa (USA)?
The F1 visa is a non-immigrant visa issued to students who wish to pursue full-time academic programs in the U.S. This includes bachelor’s, master’s, diploma, language, and PhD programs.
Key Features:
- Valid for full-time study at SEVP-approved institutions
- Allows on-campus work (20 hours/week)
- Eligible for OPT & STEM OPT post-study
F1 Visa Eligibility Criteria
To apply for an F1 student visa, the applicant must:
✅ Have an admission letter (I-20) from a U.S. institution
✅ Show proof of financial resources for tuition & living expenses
✅ Provide valid English proficiency test scores
✅ Prove non-immigrant intent (strong home ties)
✅ Be enrolled in a program with in-person instruction
Step-by-Step F1 Visa Application Process
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| Step 1 | Get Form I-20 from your U.S. university |
| Step 2 | Pay the SEVIS I-901 Fee ($350) |
| Step 3 | Fill out DS-160 Online Visa Application |
| Step 4 | Pay the Visa Application Fee ($185) |
| Step 5 | Schedule Biometrics & Interview (via US Travel Docs) |
| Step 6 | Attend the Visa Interview at the U.S. Embassy/Consulate |
| Step 7 | Receive Visa Approval & Passport with Stamp |
✅ Countrywide Visas will guide you through all of these steps.
SEVIS Fee & DS-160 Form – Explained
- SEVIS Fee: $350, paid online at fmjfee.com
- DS-160 Form: Your official online visa application – must match your I-20 and passport details
- Visa Fee (MRV): $185, paid via NEFT or at Axis/City Bank branches
✅ Ensure DS-160 confirmation is printed for your interview
Visa Interview Appointment Process
Book appointments via: www.ustraveldocs.com/in
- Step 1: Create a profile
- Step 2: Pay visa fee & generate receipt
- Step 3: Schedule VAC (biometrics) appointment
- Step 4: Schedule Embassy/Consulate visa interview
Embassy Locations (India): Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Chennai
What Happens in the Visa Interview?
You will be interviewed by a U.S. visa officer who will ask questions on:
- Your course and university
- Financial resources (bank statements, ITRs, education loans)
- Career plans after graduation
- English proficiency
- Visa history (if any)
✅ Be honest, confident, and well-prepared
Financial Documentation Required
- Latest bank statements (6 months)
- Affidavit of support (from parents/sponsors)
- Loan sanction letters (if applicable)
- ITR returns, salary slips
- Scholarship/assistantship confirmation, if any
You must show funds for at least one year of tuition + living expenses (~$30,000+)
Supporting Documents Checklist for Visa Filing
| Document | Mandatory |
|---|---|
| Valid Passport | ✅ |
| I-20 Form | ✅ |
| DS-160 Confirmation | ✅ |
| SEVIS Fee Receipt | ✅ |
| Visa Fee Receipt | ✅ |
| Academic Transcripts | ✅ |
| Test Scores (IELTS, GRE, etc.) | ✅ |
| SOP, LORs, Resume | Optional but recommended |
| Financial Proof | ✅ |
✅ Countrywide Visas provides a complete document checklist to all clients
Processing Time & Visa Validity
- Visa Processing: 15–45 working days
- Visa Validity: Up to 5 years depending on course duration
- You can enter the U.S. 30 days before your program start date
Tip: Apply at least 90–120 days before your intake begins
After Visa Approval – What’s Next?
✅ Receive your passport with visa stamp
✅ Book flight tickets (one-way allowed)
✅ Arrange accommodation & airport pickup
✅ Attend pre-departure briefing (by Countrywide Visas)
✅ Carry your travel file with all academic + visa documents
Testimonials & Success Stories
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We’re proud to have helped thousands achieve their dream of settling abroad. Our success stories, high approval rate, and transparent processes have built a solid community of happy clients
“I had a positive experience with the immigration services. Milan and Sahil Sharma (Case Manager) guided me through every step, clearly explaining documentation and providing timely updates. I'm grateful for their support and would recommend them to anyone needing immigration assistance.”
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“Countrywide Visas delivers on its promise of reliable timelines, efficiently processing applications according to a set schedule. This consistency offers clients clarity, confidence, and peace of mind throughout the immigration process, making them a trusted partner in achieving visa-related goals.”
“What sets Countrywide Visas apart is their ability to find innovative solutions. They approach challenges creatively, ensuring each application is handled smoothly and efficiently, resulting in a seamless experience for clients aiming to achieve their immigration goals with confidence and ease.”
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