How to Apply for Student Visa in USA: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide for 2025

Step 1: Understand the Types of US Student Visas

Before learning how to apply for student visa in USA, it’s important to know the types of visas available. The U.S. government offers three main categories for students:

1. F-1 Visa – For academic or language training programs at universities, colleges, or high schools.
   • This is the most common student visa type.
   • You’ll need an I-20 Form from your institution.
2. J-1 Visa – For exchange programs, such as student exchange or short-term research.
   • Requires a DS-2019 Form from your sponsor organization.
3. M-1 Visa – For vocational or non-academic training courses.
   • Requires an I-20 Form from your technical or vocational school.

Most international students apply for the F-1 visa, so this guide will mainly focus on it while explaining how to apply for student visa in USA.

Step 2: Get Admission to a SEVP-Approved Institution

You can only apply for a U.S. student visa after you’ve been accepted by a SEVP-approved (Student and Exchange Visitor Program) school.

Once accepted, your university will send you an I-20 form (for F-1 or M-1 visas) or a DS-2019 form (for J-1 visa applicants).

This document confirms:

• Your program details
• Duration of study
• Estimated cost of attendance

Tip: Before learning how to apply for student visa in USA, double-check that your university is SEVP-approved. Only then can you proceed with your visa application.

Step 3: Pay the SEVIS Fee

Before applying for a visa, you must pay the SEVIS I-901 fee, which helps maintain your student record in the U.S. immigration system.

How to Pay the SEVIS Fee:

• Visit the official FMJfee.com website.
• Enter your SEVIS ID number from your I-20 or DS-2019 form.
• Pay the fee using a credit or debit card.
• Keep a printed payment confirmation receipt — you’ll need it during your visa interview.

SEVIS Fee Amounts:

• F-1/M-1 Visa: $350
• J-1 Visa: $220

This is one of the first and most essential steps in understanding how to apply for student visa in USA.

Step 4: Complete the DS-160 Form Online

The DS-160 form is your official U.S. visa application form. It includes details about your background, travel plans, and purpose of visit.

Steps to Fill DS-160:

1. Go to the Consular Electronic Application Center (CEAC) website.
2. Select the location where you’ll apply for the visa.
3. Fill in all personal, educational, and travel details carefully.
4. Upload a recent passport-size photograph (as per US visa requirements).
5. Submit the form and print the DS-160 confirmation page with the barcode.

You’ll need this confirmation during your interview — so keep it safe!Every applicant learning how to apply for student visa in USA must complete the DS-160 form correctly to avoid rejection or delays.

Step 5: Pay the Visa Application Fee (MRV Fee)

After submitting your DS-160 form, the next step is to pay the visa application fee, also known as the MRV fee.

• For F-1, J-1, and M-1 visas, the fee is $185 USD (approx ₹15,000).
• Payment can be made online, via NEFT, or in cash at authorized banks (like Axis Bank or CitiBank in India).
• Once paid, save the receipt number — you’ll need it to schedule your visa interview.

This payment step is crucial in the process of how to apply for student visa in USA because without it, you cannot book your appointment.

Step 6: Schedule Your Visa Interview

Now comes one of the most important parts of how to apply for student visa in USA — scheduling your visa interview.

You must book two appointments:

1. OFC Appointment (Biometrics) – for fingerprints and photograph.
2. Visa Interview Appointment – at the US Embassy or Consulate.

You can schedule your appointment through the US Visa Information and Appointment Services website for your country.

Pro Tip: Book early! During peak admission seasons (May–August), slots fill up fast.

Step 7: Prepare the Required Documents

When learning how to apply for student visa in USA, documentation is key. Missing a single paper could cause delays or rejection.

Here’s the complete list you’ll need:

Essential Documents

• Valid Passport (at least six months beyond your stay).
• Form I-20 or DS-2019 from your university.
• DS-160 confirmation page.
• Visa appointment confirmation page.
• SEVIS fee payment receipt.
• Visa application fee (MRV) receipt.
• Recent passport-sized photos.

Academic and Financial Documents

• Original admission letter from the university.
• Academic transcripts and certificates.
• Standardized test scores (GRE, GMAT, IELTS, TOEFL, etc.).
• Proof of financial support – bank statements, sponsor letters, or scholarship proof.
• Income tax returns of sponsors (if applicable).

Being organized with documents ensures your how to apply for student visa in USA process goes smoothly.

Step 8: Attend the Visa Interview

This is the final and most crucial step in understanding how to apply for student visa in USA. The interview determines whether you’ll be granted the visa.

Interview Tips:

• Arrive early at the embassy or consulate.
• Dress formally and carry all your documents.
• Answer clearly and honestly.
• Speak confidently about your chosen course, university, and study plans.
• Avoid giving answers that suggest you intend to settle permanently in the USA.

Common Visa Interview Questions:

1. Why did you choose this university?
2. How will you fund your education?
3. What are your plans after graduation?
4. Who is your sponsor?
5. Have you visited the U.S. before?

Being calm and well-prepared is the secret to successfully completing this stage of how to apply for student visa in USA.

Step 9: After the Interview — Visa Approval and Passport Collection

If your visa is approved, the officer will keep your passport for stamping. You’ll receive an email or SMS when it’s ready for pickup or delivery.

If denied, don’t worry — you can reapply after understanding the reason for rejection and improving your application.

Once approved, you’re officially ready to study in the United States! This marks the final step in how to apply for student visa in USA, leading you toward your academic dream.

Step 10: Prepare for Travel

Once your visa is granted, it’s time to prepare for your move.

Book your flight (you can enter the U.S. 30 days before your program start date).Keep copies of your visa, I-20, and university admission letter.Purchase medical and travel insurance.Attend your university’s international student orientation.

Understanding how to apply for student visa in USA helps you plan each step smoothly — from admission to arrival.

Common Mistakes to Avoid During Visa Application

Even small errors can cause rejection or delay. Avoid these when learning how to apply for student visa in USA:

• Incomplete or incorrect DS-160 form
• Missing or mismatched financial documents
• Giving inconsistent answers during the interview
• Applying too late (close to your program start date)
• Ignoring embassy instructions or emails

Being proactive and careful makes a big difference in your success rate.

Why Choose Vidysea for Student Visa Assistance

At Vidysea, we understand that the U.S. visa process can be stressful. Our experts guide you through every stage of how to apply for student visa in USA, ensuring you’re fully prepared.

We help you with:

• University and course selection
• Visa document preparation
• Interview training and mock sessions
• Pre-departure counseling
• Scholarship and financial guidance

With Vidysea by your side, you’ll never feel lost during your U.S. study visa journey.

Conclusion

Now you know how to apply for student visa in USA — from university admission to interview success. The process may seem long, but if you plan early and stay organized, you can easily secure your visa.

Start by choosing a SEVP-approved university, gather your documents, and prepare well for your interview. Remember, confidence and preparation are your biggest strengths.

And with Vidysea’s expert guidance, you can turn your American education dream into reality — one step at a time.