The US has most of the world's high-ranked universities and successful MNCs and is one of the world's most developed countries and leading economies. The US has a promising environment for its workers; it guarantees paid leave and is a leader in Space, technologies, economics, politics, machinery, etc. Pursuing an education in this kind of environment is beneficial for students to learn academically and understand concepts practically. Indian students opting for the US as their education destination for full-time Bachelor's, Master's, or Doctoral programs must apply for the Visa depending upon the type of their course and its duration.
Reasons to choose the US for study
- High-ranked universities offer diverse courses.
- US offers academic flexibility so students can explore their interests in different disciplines.
- OPT (Optional Practical Training) allows students to study and gain work experience simultaneously.
- US universities host many recruitment fairs and provide a vast network of alumni.Diverse culture welcomes international students.
Types of US student visa
· F1 Visa (academic students)
· J1 Visa (exchange students)
· M1 Visa (vocational training)
F1 Visa (academic students)
F1 Visa is for the students planning to pursue an academic course or courses related to the English Language. This is most common/popular for International students. The minimum duration of the course is considered for this type of Visa. It also allows students to work part-time and on-campus jobs for less than 20 hours a week. Students also work on OPT (Optional Practical Training) for one year, even after completing their respective courses. Students are expected to complete their academic programs before the expiration date on the I-20 form (Certificate for Non-immigrant Students).
· F1 Visa Qualifications: Applicants for the F1 Visa must be foreign residents and intend to return home after completing their course. The students are allowed to study at the institution based on which the Visa was granted. The students are asked to submit their financial affordability proofs, and applicants must demonstrate their ties to their home country.
Fee- 160 USD.
J1 Visa (exchange students)
This type of Visa is issued to those students who require completing their vocational training to achieve their academic courses in their home country. Exchange programs are also considered in this category. Other details are the same as explained for F1 visas.
Fees- 160 USD.
M1 Visa (vocational training)
This type of Visa is for those students who attend non-academic training programs (technical and vocational). The students are not allowed to work during the duration of their course. Students are asked to submit their financial evidence stating the affordability of tuition fees and other accommodation-related expenses.
Fees- 160 USD.
- Immigration regulations in the US are stringent. Students should remember that they cannot rely on potential income (from part-time work). The application will be based on your assured income. Short-term and long-term planning is required to lift a student's living in the US, where one can gain academic experiences, cultural fests, and other curricular activities.
- Before applying for the Visa, it is suggested to check all the admission-related policies of your University.
- Health insurance is mandatory to cover health-related expenses and in need of medical assistance.
Visa Process
- Students can start their Visa application after receiving their acceptance letter from the University. The University will send you an I-20 form.
- Register yourself in SEVIS and pay the application fee of 350 USD. It is ensured that your payment is completed before the D-60 is processed.
- Complete the application details and submit an online non-immigrant visa application with your recent passport size photo and other required documents.
- By contacting the Embassy or Consulate, book your visa interview appointment. Take all the documents related to your education and financial statements.
- Even after getting your Visa, you will need Form I-94 from CBP(Customs and Border Protection) at your arrival. This is your permit to stay in the US and validates your duration of Stay in the country.
US Embassy and Consulates in India
- US Embassy New Delhi
- Consulate General Chennai
- Consulate General Hyderabad
- Consulate General Kolkata
- Consulate General Mumbai
- Consulate General Bengaluru
US Student Visa Requirements
- A passport with a validity of 6 months even after completion of the program.
- DS-160 Form (non-immigrant visa application confirmation page) printed copy.
- SEVIS fees receipt.
- Interview appointment letter.
- Form 1-20 (sent by your University).
- Bank statement showing at least 24 months' of assets.
- Salary or payslips.
- Original mark sheets and certificates
- The score for exams -TOEFL, GMAT, IELTS, etc.
- Pay the required fee and prepare your provisional mark sheets.
Dependent Visa
A dependent visa is required to bring families with you, and the process can be a little time-consuming. This type of visa, referred to as an F2 visa, allows immediate family members to visit and stay in the US together. It includes spouses and children under the age of 21.
By Mithila Rathod
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