Student Visa Application Process: How does it Work?
Graduating from a university in the United States can open doors to career opportunities around the world. Once accepted to a university program, you will need to secure a valid visa before you can start your studies. Because the process can be lengthy, you should prepare your paperwork in advance.
Start the visa process as soon as you are accepted to an institution that is certified with the Student Exchange and Visitor Program (SEVP) and accredited. ECPI University is both SEVP certified and accredited with the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Preparing the Visa Application
A Form I-20 which be issued to you once you are accepted into the program. This form requires you to identify:
- Your personal details including date of birth, citizenship, etc.
- Your school name and contact information.
- The study program you will enroll in, including start and end dates.
- The cost of tuition and expenses.
- Proof of ability to cover tuition and first academic year living expenses.
Alternatively, some students may receive Form DS-2019. This form is used to request an interview for a "J-1 visa" with the nearest United States embassy or consulate. Like Form I-20, the DS-2019 requires you to identify your university, provide a description and duration of the program you are enrolling in, and the estimated cost of your studies.
Choosing the Right Visa
The United States government issues three types of visas for students:
- F-1 Student Visa - This is valid for studies conducted at an SEVP accredited college or university. It is also acceptable for students who wish to study English at an English language institute.
- J-1 Exchange Visa - This allows students to participate in short-term university exchange programs.
- F, J, and M Student Visas - This is acceptable for students undergoing vocational training.
Scheduling and Preparing for Your Visa Interview
In order to obtain a student visa to the United States, you'll need to complete an interview at either an embassy or consulate. You'll need to bring all relevant forms. You'll also need:
- A valid passport that has at least six months remaining after your date of entry into the United States.
- Two color photographs (5cm by 5cm)
- Your interview appointment letter
- Copy of your visa fee receipt. Also, remember that you must pay the visa fee prior to your interview.
- Evidence of income/employment.
All documents and forms must be translated into English before your interview. These translations must be performed and certified by a qualified translator. You may also be required to pre-register for a courier service to deliver your visa to you. This varies by country and you will want to verify whether you should do this before your interview.
The "Big" Interview
You should not be intimidated by the interview. It's really very straightforward and simple. Be sure to practice, but not memorize, your answers. Reading some tips on how to interview could help you be less nervous and get through your interview with less worry.
You will want to dress professionally for your interview. You don't have to wear a suit and tie or fancy dress, but you want to show that you are a professional who is eager to continue your studies in the US. When you go to your interview, you should avoid bringing laptops, large bags, suitcases, cameras, etc. This will help you go through security faster and many embassies prohibit individuals from bringing these in at all.
Before your interview, you will be fingerprinted and other biometric data may be collected. The consular official will ask you some questions regarding your study program, educational background, etc. This is typically done in a room with other people present so you will need to feel comfortable discussing these details with very little privacy.
When asked questions, stay calm and give direct answers. Make sure that you clearly identify the program you are enrolled in and your purposes of studying in the United States. Always give honest answers and don't be afraid of saying "I don't know" to questions you are unsure about.
Processing Time
It typically takes between 6-10 weeks To schedule your visa appointment. After the visa appointment, the visa is usually granted within 5 business days. Processing time varies by country and whether or not there are problems or questions that arise during the application process.
Are you interested in becoming an international student? If you want a quality education in fields such as technology, business, criminal justice, or health science, you should consider ECPI University. For more information on our accelerated programs, connect with a friendly admissions advisor today.
It could be the Best Decision You Ever Make!
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