Study In USA
Table of content
Types of Student VISA to Study in USA for Indian Students
F Student VISA
This VISA is essential for students seeking admission to accredited USA colleges or universities.
F-1 VISA: This is required for full-time students.
F-2 VISA: This is required for dependents of F-1 VISA, including their spouses and unmarried children below 21 years.
F-3 VISA: This is required for students living in Canada and Mexico who may be staying in their home countries, while pursuing their full-time or part-time program in the USA.
J Exchange VISA
This VISA is for students participating in educational exchange programs. During this program, the student may remain enrolled in their university, college, or school, while attending a study program in any accredited USA study institution.
J-1 VISA: This VISA is for exchange students attending a particular exchange program.
J-2 VISA: This VISA is offered to dependents of J-1 VISA holders.
M Student VISA
This VISA is for students applying for non-academic, vocational training in the country.
M1 VISA: This VISA is for students wishing to pursue non-academic or vocational studies in the USA.
M2 VISA: This VISA is for the dependents of M-1 VISA holders.
M3 VISA: It is awarded to students living in Mexico and Canada who may be pursuing non-academic or vocational studies in USA universities.
How to Apply for a USA Student VISA
If you are an Indian student wishing to study in USA, you may require a student VISA. Applying for a student VISA is a long and tedious process, which may last 4-6 months before your course starts. The following are the stages of applying for a student VISA.
- Check if the school or university you wish to join is approved under the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP).
- Next, apply to the SEVP-approved institution at least 6 to 12 months before the course starts.
- Once you receive an admit and finalize the university, you will receive a I20 form. This form is important to apply for a student VISA.
- Pay the SEVIS fee online 4-5 days prior the USA VISA application. You can check the information through the USA Immigration Customs Enforcement (ICE) SEVP official website.
- Fill the CGI Federal form and book an appointment at the embassy.
- Pay the MRV fee or VISA application fee.
- Schedule and attend the VISA interview. Check the consulate or embassy website to check all documents to be carried to the interview.