Most non-U.S. citizens who wish to study in the United States will need an F-1 (non-immigrant) student visa. However, there are other visas that may be authorized for those who study in the US:
F-1, or Student Visa
This visa is the most common for those who wish to engage
in academic studies in the United States. It is for
people who want to study at an accredited US college
or university or to study English at a university or
intensive English language institute.
J-1, or Exchange Visitor
This visa is for people who will be participating in
an exchange visitor program in the US The J-visa is
for educational and cultural exchange programs.
M-1, or Student Visa
This visa is for those who will be engaged in non-academic
or vocational study or training at an institution in
the US.
Ensure that you bring all relevant documents with you to the interview, including the visa-qualifying document (I-20 or DS-2019), financial support documents, proof of payment of the SEVIS and visa fees, and a completed visa application form. Ensure that you complete the visa application correctly by following the Department of State website procedures carefully.
Note: The US Embassy/Consulate cannot issue a visa more than 90 days before the actual start of your program in the US However, ensure that you apply as soon as is possible. If you are an initial entry student, you are not allowed to enter the United States more than 30 days before the start of your program. Returning students do not have this requirement.
