As an aspiring international student in the US, knowing the requirements is key to minimizing stress in the application process. To make sure the journey of acquiring a US visa for Indian students goes smoothly, it’s important to be mindful of every part of the process of gaining entry into the US.
If you’re an Indian student looking to study in the United States, your journey begins with applying for a degree program at an American university. It is the first step in acquiring a US student visa for Indian students. Once accepted, you can then apply for the F-1 visa. With thorough research about US immigration policies, you can ensure you’re accurately completing every step of your application.
Some Facts That Can Help You Decide
The acceptance rate for US visas worldwide is over 86%.
The US has issued over 50,000 Indian student visas.
US President Joe Biden has relaxed international students from entering the US and has pledged to welcome deserving students to study in the country.
Cost of a US Student Visa
Indian students looking to pursue higher education in America have to acquire an F1 visa! It will enable you to study full-time at a school authorized by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP). While it may appear daunting, applying for one is quite easy – all you need to do is submit your application along with a fee. Student Visa USA cost is approximately $510 or 42,050 INR and should be paid three months prior to the course starting.
Programs with codes beginning with G-1, G-2, G-3 or G-7 are exempted from SEVIS fee.
US Student Visa Requirements for Indian Citizens
Indian citizens who are interested in studying in the United States must meet the US student visa requirements. The US student visa requirements for Indian citizens include filing of F-1 Visa, providing evidence of financial support, submitting a valid passport, and attending an interview with a US Embassy or Consulate.
In addition, Indian citizens must prove that they have acceptable academic credentials. Adequate documentation of all US student visa requirements is necessary as these documents must be presented before commencing the study.
Passport with validity for at least 6 months.
Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application Form (DS-160)
Form I-20 ( Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status)
Acceptance from Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) approved school
Application fee for SEVIS
Provisional Certificates or Original Mark Sheets
Financial Proof
Bank Statements
Financial undertaking by a sponsor
Proof that the candidate’s intention is only for the duration of the course, and will depart after completion.
Personal Interview in the US Embassy.
Documents for US student visa requirements for Indian students in 2022
Originals and Copies of all documents submitted during visa application
Passport
Exam Scores
Academic Certificates
SEVP Acceptance Letter
Proof of Funds
Birth Certificate
Visa Appointment and Interview Appointment confirmation copies
Signed SEVIS Form I-20 or DS-2019
SEVIS and MRV Fee Receipt
Form DS-7002 for J-1 Trainee and Intern Visa
DS-160 Application Confirmation Page with Barcode and ID Number
Steps in Acquiring an F-1 Student Visa
Step 1: SEVIS Fee and I-20 Form Collection
Upon payment of the SEVIS fee, you will be given an I-20 form from your desired college or university. Take the form carefully and complete this document prior to attending an F-1 interview.
Step 2: Visa Fee and Form Collection
To obtain your visa, head to the designated bank and pay the fee. Then fill out the form carefully with all the needed information before bringing it along for your interview.
Step 3: D-160 Form
It’s important to carefully fill out the D-160 form and submit it along with all of the required documents. Doing this will help you put together a complete application package that demonstrates your eligibility.
Step 4: Visa Interview
Appear before a visa officer 120 days before program commencement. This will give them plenty of time so they can facilitate stamped passports just in time for departure day. For US visa holders, you may be eligible for a visa interview waiver.
How Much Bank Balance is Required for US Student Visa
How much bank balance is required for a US student visa? Indian students need to provide evidence that they have enough money to cover their tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs for the duration of their stay in the United States.
The reasonable amount you must have to get an F-1 Visa must have a minimum balance of 10,000 USD. This amount should be readily available in the student’s bank account before submitting visa documents. It is always best to check with the US consulate or relevant education institution to find out specifics before beginning the application process.
If you’re running low on liquid cash, there are options to help get the funds needed, Solvency, Sponsor, or Loan Letter. A Solvency Letter can prove your ability to take out an educational loan in the future and a Sponsor Loan provides certification from a bank after analyzing credit history, score, and assets. But it’s essential that regardless of which route is taken, these letters provide thorough detail about one’s financial standing.
Preparing for Visa Interview
Applying for a US visa can seem intimidating, but with the right preparation and knowledge, US visa interviews for Indian students are relatively straightforward. Having a full understanding of the relevant US visa application requirements, as well as all other necessary documents, will help ensure that the US visa interview runs smoothly and successfully.
By taking these steps to be fully prepared in advance, applicants will have the best chance at a successful US visa outcome.
Arrive wearing a formal dress like being interviewed when finding work.
Be specific with answers and answer all questions truthfully without hiding information.
Carry a copy of bank statements as proof of financial capacity. The same copy is declared in the visa application.
Proof of employment if any, employer’s details, and reference.
Details of study or any travel plans in the US.
Professionalism at interviews is practiced at all times.
Now that you understand the necessary steps to apply for a US visa for Indian students, you can begin the application process with confidence. Gather all of the required documents, fill out the online form, and submit your application fee. Then, schedule an appointment at the nearest US consulate or embassy.
After your interview, you will likely receive a decision on whether your visa is good to proceed or denied. With careful planning and attention to detail, you can make your dream of studying in the United States a reality.
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