NextStudent Adivsors

International Students Are Invited, And Welcome, To Come To The U.S. To Study 

Steps For Getting A Student VISA 

The first step for procuring a student VISA, to study in the U.S., is to gain acceptance into an accredited U.S. college or university. Since the process for gaining a VISA is thorough and lengthier than it was in the past, you must take additional time into consideration, when planning your college admissions and student VISA application process. 

Begin by seeking applications from the colleges and universities that interest you. In addition, plan to take college admission tests and the TOEFL exam, when necessary and as appropriate.

Acquire A Student And Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) 

A Student And Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) form is required to apply for a VISA.  This document will be provided by the academic or sponsoring institution that has accepted you as a student or exchange visitor to the U.S. 

Once you have been accepted to a U.S. college or applicable program, you will take this document to the U.S. Embassy to schedule an interview and gain other information about the process of VISA application and fee requirements. Since the process varies for each country, contact your embassy in advance, to find out how long it takes to schedule an interview and to understand the amount of time necessary to complete the process for your particular situation.

What Is A VISA? 

Although a VISA does not guarantee entry into the United States, it does allow a person to travel to a U.S. Port of Entry, and to request permission from an immigration officer to enter the United States.

VISAs are available for: 

• Academic Studies  Academic studies include students who have been accepted into an accredited U.S. college for study or academic research.
• Nonacademic or Vocational Studies  This area includes students who have been accepted to train at a nonacademic institution in the U.S. 
• Academic Studies as an Exchange Visitor  This area covers individuals who have been accepted into sponsored programs for academic and cultural exchange.

Other Factors You Should Know 

• A VISA will not be issued more than 120 days in advance of the program start date, for which you have been admitted. You should begin the application process earlier than this.  However, know that the VISA itself will not be available until 120 days before the stated start date. 
• You will not be allowed to enter the U.S. more than 30 days prior to the start of your program for your initial entry as a student, even if you have your VISA. Returning students are not given this requirement. 
• Once you are in the U.S., you will come under the authority of the Department of Homeland Security. Make sure you understand what you are authorized to do during your stay in this country, particularly in regard to travel outside the U.S. and employment. Contact your university as soon as possible after entering the U.S. They will have an office for international students, which will be able to help you with information and questions you might have during your stay.