Preparation
Step1
Use Internet to select a United States school that can issue an I-20 form. Choose a major and review the admissions guidelines. Contact the school's admissions department to ask questions and seek help if needed.
Step2
Complete the school's registration documents and submit the application fee. Prepare and take the evaluation test (TOEFL) which is mandatory for every foreign student. Also inquire about other required tests for your major (examples: SAT, GRE, GMAT, LSAT).
Step3
Once you complete the prerequisites, the school will send you the SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information) receipt along with an I-20 form. These are required to apply for the F1 visa.
Step4
Check your passport for its expiration date. Ideally, It should be valid long enough to cover your entire stay in United States.
Step5
Print out the following mandatory forms: DS-156 (non immigrant visa form), DS-157 (supplemental application form) and DS-158 (contact information and work related history). Fill out the forms using complete and correct information. Follow the directions on the forms to get passport sized photographs.
Step6
Submit the non-refundable visa fees, assistance charges and related taxes at a local Visa Facilitation Services (VFS) office or participating bank. Obtain the Visa Fee Receipt. Or apply by mail by sending a money order and photocopy of your valid passport. Wait for the receipt to arrive by mail. Visa application receipts are valid for one year from the date of issuance.
Apply for the F1 Visa
Step1
Make an appointment at your local American consulate. Ask for a list of documents that you must bring to the consulate. Save the interview appointment letter that will reach you in the following days.
Step2
Bring the following documents with you to the American consulate: original current passport including photocopies of its first and last page, visa fee and SEVIS receipts, original copies of the mandatory forms, university approved I-20 form, appointment letter, tax and bank records of the sponsor for the last three years, all academic records, any scholarship documents and passport sized photographs.
Step3
Contact the United States school as soon as you are issued an F1 visa. Confirm your arrival date and arrange for accommodations.
Step4
Pay the first semester's tuition via credit card or money order. Travel to the United States no more than 30 days before classes commence.
