US Visa for Indian Students | Application 2024

Getting a US student visa is not an easy process. And it’s time for students to tie their shoes and get started with the race. The US government has released their first batch of visa interview appointments. Students aspiring to start their academic journey in the US can start booking their interview dates with slots available from May to August. While only the dates in May are available as of now, the slots for the rest should be out soon. To brace themselves for the ride, we have fabricated this guide to help Indian students successfully get their visas for 2024 admissions.

Before anything else, it is crucial that one understand the types of student visas the US offers. Students applying to study a full-time course or specialisation in accredited US universities apply for an F1 visa. While this visa doesn’t let them work during their course, it can be switched to a post-graduate visa after course completion. Further, those in non-academic and vocational studies apply for the M visa. Exclusively, the US also has J visas for students flying to the US to study as an exchange switch for a short period of time.

Eligibility

Students can apply for any visa as long as they are accepted in a SEVP-certified (Student and Exchange Visitor Program) US institution and have sufficient funds to carry out a decent lifestyle during their stay. Like most of the study destinations, the US doesn’t want you to hover their land and settle in. Therefore, students must show strong ties to their homeland and/or an intent to return after completing their studies. Further, they also need to take an English proficiency test to demonstrate their abilities to cope with the US universities’ educational level.

Read: Study in the USA After 12th

Booking an Appointment

Candidates need to submit an online DS-160 application (visa application). As the second step, they create a profile on the US Travel Portal to schedule an appointment. They can choose an interview date using the CEAC Barcode in their DS-160 form. Further, they would also need to submit their photograph, passport and I-20 letter. To confirm the visa interview appointment, students pay a visa application fee of INR 14,971. It is coupled with a processing fee of INR 29,110 to enrol on the Student Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS). The page has multiple modes of payment. Notably, it could take up to 2 business days to process the payment made. Download both the DS-160 form and the receipt of the payment to present at the visa office.

Read: Student Interview Questions and How to Answer Them

Documents Requirement

Preparing the documents is the most important part of the process. If done wrong, it could take several visits to the visa office with no assurance that your visa would, in fact, be approved. Therefore, students should understand the document requirements and follow them to the T. The main documents required for the US visa are an original passport, an I-20 Letter, academic records and transcripts, financial records and passport-sized coloured photographs as used in Form D-160 9 (visa application). Students must compile these documents with their university acceptance letter, visa application and payment receipt made against them both.

Your academic records should include a 12th mark sheet, graduation certificate and mark sheet (for the PG course), the certificate of excellence in extracurricular activities and scorecards for the English proficiency test and/or entrance tests. On the other hand, as financial records, they can submit their bank statement (last 6 months), income tax returns (last 3 years) and proof of work experience, if any.

Tips to Avoid Rejection

One of the common mistakes applicants make is not reapplying despite the rejection. You need to hold back, breathe and analyse their mistakes. Students must apply for their visas with time in their hands. The process itself is time-consuming and can lead to delays in admissions if not abided by the timeframe. Typically, the visa takes about 8-13 weeks to process. Students can avoid rejection by exhibiting confidence, preparing for the interview and dressing proactively. Most study destinations don’t wish you to overstay your welcome. Be honest about your plans and express your interest in not staying for more. If needed, consult with a professional.

Read: Why do you need a Study Abroad Education Consultant?

After Getting a Visa

It is time to start packing, say our goodbyes and prepare to embrace the new phase of life. It would be wise to look for accommodation options beforehand and book out at suits your needs and budget the most. Take this time to learn about the changes you will face. After understanding the climate difference, transportation system, bank accounts, debit/credit cards and more, you can ensure a smoother transition.

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