To apply for a US student visa in 2025, you must:
Get accepted to an SEVP-certified school
Receive your Form I-20
Pay the I-901 SEVIS fee
Fill out the DS-160 form and pay the visa fee
Schedule and attend a visa interview at your nearest U.S. embassy or consulate
(Official Source: ICE.gov, USA.gov)
Step-by-Step Explanation for Apply For A US Student Visa
- Apply to an SEVP-Certified School
Only schools certified under the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) can issue the documents needed for a visa. The official list is on studyinthestates.dhs.gov. - Receive Form I-20
Once accepted, your school sends you Form I-20, which contains details about your course, program duration, and tuition costs. - Pay the I-901 SEVIS Fee
The I-901 SEVIS fee supports the SEVP database that tracks international students. For F/M visas, the fee is $350. Pay online at fmjfee.com and print your receipt. - Complete DS-160 Form & Pay Visa Fee
The DS-160 is the online visa application. You also pay the MRV visa application fee (around $185). - Schedule & Attend Visa Interview
Book your interview via the U.S. embassy/consulate portal in your country. Carry your passport, DS-160 confirmation, visa fee receipt, Form I-20, SEVIS fee receipt, and financial proof.
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