US Student Visa Requirements: How to Apply for an F-1 Visa for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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Applying for a United States student visa can be a painstaking process. You need to know your deadlines, plan months ahead, and check all requirements for your specific visa type. These are all part of the challenges of studying abroad.

Three types of student visas are available to foreigners. These are the M visas for vocational study, J visas for cultural exchange programs, and F visas for academic study. The F visa is the most prevalent type as 94% of universities sponsor their international students under the F visa program (Student Exchange and Visitor Program, 2014 cited in Demirci, 2019).

In this article, we will focus on how to apply for an F-1 visa. F-1 is for full-time students studying at an accredited U.S. college or university or students studying English at an English language institute.

F-1 Student Visa Requirements Table of Contents

1. Valid Passport
2. Form I-20
3. SEVIS I-901 Fee
4. Form DS-160
5. Additional Documents 
6. How Can I Secure Adequate Financial Support for My Education?
7. Is Pursuing a Fast-Track Bachelor's Degree Online a Viable Option for F-1 Visa Applicants?
8. How Should I Prepare for My Visa Interview?
9. Can Accelerated Degree Programs Simplify My F-1 Visa Process?
10. Can Hybrid Education Models Offer a Cost-Effective Strategy for F-1 Students?
11. What to Do in Case of Visa Denial
12. Common Mistakes to Avoid During the F-1 Visa Application
13. How Can I Verify My Institution’s Accreditation?
14. How Do I Maintain My F-1 Visa Status?

After the 9/11 terrorist attacks on the U.S., new immigration policies were adopted in the country’s visa system. These policies were aimed to prevent such an attack from happening again since it was found that the attackers came to the U.S. via legal travel channels. Though meant to safeguard the nation, the changes also became huge obstacles to legitimate international students and scholars (Urias and Yeakey, 2009).

On October 26, 2001, Congress enacted PL107-56, also known as the USA PATRIOT Act. This statute contains several important immigration-related provisions. The Act established the January 30, 2003 deadline for colleges and universities to comply with SEVIS or Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (Urias & Yeakey, 2009). SEVIS’s purpose is to track and monitor non-immigrant students and exchange visitors. It also enables authorities to identify visa status violators.

Even with stricter student visa requirements and background checks, the U.S. still remains the top host destination for international students globally with over one million students in 2019 (Duffin, 2020). Most of the international students came from China, followed by India, and South Korea (Duffin, 2019).

Moreover, the enrollment of international students in bachelor’s- and masters-level programs of U.S. colleges and universities almost doubled over the last decade with about a third of international students majoring in STEM fields covering science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (Demirci, 2019).

Student Visa Requirements in the U.S.

Citizens of Canada and Bermuda do not need a visa to enter the US as a student. For other foreign nationals who will pursue studies that will lead to a US-conferred degree or certificate, a student visa is required.

1. Valid Passport

Before you start your F-1 visa application, make sure you have a valid passport with several blank pages for a visa. Some countries have a 10-year validity for adult passports, while some have five years. As for the blank pages, “U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) recommend that at least one more blank page is available for your passport to be stamped if you are admitted to the United States" (US Embassy in the UK, n.d.). 

Moreover, make sure your passport is six months beyond your intended period of stay in the U.S. There are several instances where you’ll need to provide your passport details throughout your student visa application, from applying for admissions at a university to filling out visa application forms.

Some countries are exempted from the six-month rule. You can check the updated country list to see if you only need a valid passport for your intended period of stay.

2. Form I-20

Form I-20, also called the “Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student StatusFor Academic and Language Students," is your acceptance letter from a SEVP-approved school. The SEVP or Student and Exchange Visitor Program is the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) program that administers the SEVIS.

It is important to apply to a SEVP-approved school to make sure that your degree is internationally recognized by other universities, professional organizations, and employers. Once you get accepted by your prospective school, they will register you with the SEVIS system, which will then generate the Form I-20. Note that not all institutions that issue the Form I-20 are SEVP-approved.

Form I-20 is a very important document not only during the F-1 application process but also throughout your stay in the country as an international student. You will need to present your Form I-20, for example, when entering the U.S. Do not pack it away in your checked luggage. You also need it when applying for a driver’s license or social security number, and when departing the U.S. after your studies.

3. SEVIS I-901 Fee

The SEVIS I-901 fee is used to maintain the office of the program and the automated services that keep track and update the information of students and exchange visitors. You must have a Form I-20 before paying the I-901 fee since you will need to fill out the Form I-901 with information from your Form I-20. You can schedule a visa interview appointment before paying the I-901 fee. Settle your I-901 fee at least three days prior to your interview date to allow the system to properly process and verify your payment.

New and increased I-901 fees took effect on June 24, 2019. For most students, the fee is $350. There are several payment options detailed on the SEVIS page. These include debit card, credit card, international money order, and check payments.

After paying, you can print a copy of your receipt by going to www.fmjfee.com and selecting Check I-901 Status/ Print Payment Confirmation. Though people who need to verify your payment can do it online through the system, SEVP recommends that you keep a printed copy of your receipt since it makes it easier to prove that you have paid. You will also need to present it on the day of your visa interview.  

4. Form DS-160

Form DS-160 is the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application form for temporary travel to the U.S. Consular officers use the information on the DS-160, together with the applicant’s personal interview to determine if they are eligible for a student visa.

Before accessing the online DS-160 form, it is best to prepare a photo of yourself that meets the photo requirements for the application. You will be asked to upload your photo in the process of filling out the form.

To begin completing the DS-160 form, you need to select the country where you will be applying for your visa. There is also a security question you need to complete before the site takes you to the pages of the form. You will need to provide personal details, including your date of birth, passport details, and details of your previous travels to the U.S., among others.

Once you are done, you will be asked to electronically sign the form. After signing, your application will be uploaded into the system and you will receive a confirmation page with your application ID number, a barcode, and a barcode number. Print the details of the DS-160 barcode page.

Finally, visit the US Consulate or Embassy website so you can schedule your visa interview appointment. On the country-specific website, you will also be able to review the instructions on how to pay for the visa application processing fee.

5. Additional Documents

On the day of your visa interview, you need to present all the required documents we have mentioned above. There are also additional documents you should prepare and bring with you in case the consular officer asks for them during your interview.

Additional documents you need to prepare:

• academic records (Ex. transcripts, diplomas, or certificates from schools you attended)
• results of your standardized test (Ex. SAT, ACT, GMAT, GRE, etc.)
• English proficiency test results (Ex. TOELF or IELTS)
• recommendation letters
• bank statements
• documents for financial support covering the duration of your study

How Can I Secure Adequate Financial Support for My Education?

Establish a clear budget that details tuition fees, living expenses, and ancillary costs to ensure you can meet the financial requirements outlined in your Form I-20. Collect and verify supportive documents—such as bank statements or sponsorship letters—that accurately demonstrate your ability to cover these costs throughout your stay. Explore scholarship opportunities and cost-saving alternatives that can alleviate financial stress. For instance, consider enrolling in an online college for military if eligible, which may offer more affordable options while meeting accreditation standards.

Arrival at a US port-of-entry

F visas can be issued up to 120 days prior to your course start date; however, you can only enter the U.S. 30 days before the start date of your course. Having an F-1 visa does not guarantee entry into the U.S. When you arrive at a U.S. port-of-entry and present your passport, visa, and Form I-20, a Customs and Border Protection (CBP) official will make this decision. You may be asked to present the same documents being used to apply for a visa including evidence of financial resources, letter of acceptance from your university, the paper receipt for SEVIS I-901 fee, etc. Once you are allowed to enter, the CBP official will give you an admission stamp or paper Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record.

F-1 visa holders must leave the U.S. within 60 days after the program end date indicated on their Form I-20. Failure to do so will result in being out-of-status, which automatically voids your visa. This can also make you ineligible for other U.S. visas in the future.

Is Pursuing a Fast-Track Bachelor's Degree Online a Viable Option for F-1 Visa Applicants?

International students often explore accelerated programs that promise to fast‐track their academic progress without compromising educational quality. When considering such options, verify that the program is fully accredited and meets the requirements of the F-1 visa to ensure seamless SEVIS registration. Additionally, evaluate the program’s structure and academic rigor to determine its compatibility with your long-term educational goals and visa condition compliance. For instance, reviewing opportunities like fast track bachelor's degree online can help you balance expedited study plans with the legal obligations of maintaining student status.

How Should I Prepare for My Visa Interview?

Proper preparation is critical to ensuring a successful F-1 visa interview. Focus on reviewing your entire application package, establishing clear academic objectives, and demonstrating reliable financial backing. Practice responses to questions regarding your study goals, post-graduation plans, and ties to your home country. Additionally, prepare a concise explanation of how your chosen academic program fits into your long-term career path, including opportunities like short certificate programs that pay well which can complement your broader qualifications.

Can Accelerated Degree Programs Simplify My F-1 Visa Process?

Accelerated degree programs offer an alternative route that can shorten your academic pathway while meeting F-1 visa requirements. These streamlined programs may reduce the time needed to complete your studies without compromising educational quality or the necessary compliance with immigration policies. For example, pursuing a one year masters program can allow you to quickly advance your career and minimize your stay duration in the U.S., which could simplify certain aspects of visa management. Careful evaluation of program accreditation, curriculum rigor, and post-completion career support is essential to ensure that the accelerated academic timeline aligns with both your educational objectives and immigration regulations.

Can Hybrid Education Models Offer a Cost-Effective Strategy for F-1 Students?

Hybrid education models combine in-person instruction with online components to potentially lower overall educational costs without compromising F-1 visa compliance. While U.S. regulations mandate a substantial on-campus presence, institutions may offer hybrid coursework that meets SEVIS requirements, allowing international students to manage expenses more efficiently. In exploring these options, ensure that any online elements are fully accredited and do not exceed the limits set for maintaining your visa status. Consider reviewing affordable online bachelor degree programs as part of a broader strategy to optimize academic investment within regulatory frameworks.

What to Do in Case of Visa Denial

Though data indicates that the U.S. is still the top destination for international students, those numbers might be on the decline. In 2018, 83% of institutions participating in the Institute of International Education’s annual “hot topics" survey reported that visa delays and denials were a factor in declining numbers of international students; in 2016, only 34% said the same (Usher, 2019).

1. ReapplyIf your visa is denied, ask your interviewer what went wrong in your application. If you are not able to obtain this information, here are common reasons for rejection:insufficient proof of financial capacity to support your studies and stay in the U.S.inadequate or missing documentsfailed background checksbehavior during the interview (ex. you were panicking, unable to provide convincing answers to questions)not able to provide a satisfactory explanation on why you chose your university and what you intend to do with your degree in the futureinability to present proof of your intention to go back to your home country after your studiesinsufficient English language skillsOnce you have figured out the reason why your visa was rejected, work to correct that mistake, if possible seek assistance from an immigration expert to examine your application and later reapply. You can apply as many times as you wish; however, if multiple rejections come your way, look at other options below.
2. insufficient proof of financial capacity to support your studies and stay in the U.S.
3. inadequate or missing documents
4. failed background checks
5. behavior during the interview (ex. you were panicking, unable to provide convincing answers to questions)
6. not able to provide a satisfactory explanation on why you chose your university and what you intend to do with your degree in the future
7. inability to present proof of your intention to go back to your home country after your studies
8. insufficient English language skills
9. Study in Another CountryIf for any reason, you are not able to reapply for a U.S. student visa, you can look to other countries with equally world-class programs. Universities in Asia, Europe, and Australia top rankings for most international universities.
10. Take Courses or Work While Waiting to ReapplyYou can also pursue other interests while pondering whether you want to reapply for a student visa. If you decide to work, your professional experience might have a positive impact on your profile. On the other hand, you can also take up courses related to the discipline you would like to study in the future. Check these most affordable private and public online colleges to see if any of them offer the courses you’re interested in.
11. Study in Your Home CountrySometimes you do not need to go far in order to receive a quality education. If your situation changes and you no longer want to pursue your studies abroad, studying in your home country is always a good option. Needless to say, you will have an easier time preparing documents and the entire application process will also be less expensive.

Common Mistakes to Avoid During the F-1 Visa Application

Avoiding mistakes during the F-1 visa application process is crucial for a successful outcome. Here are some common pitfalls and tips to help you steer clear of them:

• Submitting incomplete or inaccurate documents. Double-check all your documents for completeness and accuracy. Any missing or incorrect information can delay your application or lead to a denial. Make sure that details on your passport, Form I-20, DS-160, and financial documents are consistent and up to date.
• Not paying the SEVIS I-901 fee in a timely manner. The SEVIS I-901 fee must be paid at least three days before your visa interview. Failure to do so could result in the consular officer not being able to verify your payment, potentially causing delays or denial.
• Scheduling the visa interview too close to your program start date. Visa processing times can vary widely depending on the location. Schedule your interview well in advance to avoid the risk of missing your program's start date. Keep in mind that additional administrative processing may be required, which can extend the timeline.
• Lack of preparation for the visa interview. Be ready to clearly explain your study plans, reasons for choosing a particular institution, and post-graduation intentions. Practice answering common interview questions and demonstrate your intent to return to your home country after completing your studies.
• Insufficient financial documentation. Ensure that your financial documents show adequate funds to cover tuition, living expenses, and other costs for the duration of your study. The consulate will need to see clear evidence of your financial stability.
• Not adhering to photo requirements for the DS-160 form. Photos for the DS-160 application must meet specific U.S. visa requirements. Make sure your photo is recent, meets size specifications, and adheres to guidelines regarding background and facial positioning.

How Can I Verify My Institution’s Accreditation?

Ensure that your prospective institution is accredited by recognized agencies, as this confirms that the educational program meets quality standards necessary for both academic success and visa compliance. Verify accreditation through official resources like the U.S. Department of Education and regional accrediting bodies. Consider factors such as academic reputation, course rigor, and post-graduation outcomes when making your selection. For a detailed list of such institutions, review non profit colleges.

How Do I Maintain My F-1 Visa Status?

Uphold full-time enrollment and meet academic expectations by maintaining regular communication with your Designated School Official (DSO) for updates on personal or academic changes. Abide by employment restrictions by consulting your DSO before engaging in any form of off-campus work. Ensure your passport and other vital documents remain valid and report any changes immediately. Financial preparedness is equally important—review the average cost of PhD in USA for long-term budgeting to secure sustained funding throughout your studies.

Planning Is Everything

Studying the visa application process and preparing all the student visa requirements way in advance can definitely have a huge impact on the final outcome of your application. The good news is that the process of how to apply for a student visa for the U.S. is quite transparent and straightforward. It is often a matter of taking time to understand the steps you need to take and making sure you set aside ample time to gather all your documents.

The school year in the U.S. starts in August or September, so work backward from the start date of your intended program in order to figure out when you should be starting your student visa application. Also, you need to factor in the processing time in the U.S. Consulate in your country.

Take it from Benjamin Franklin’s most famous quote, “If you fail to plan, you are planning to fail!" Careful short- and long-term planning is necessary to make your student experience abroad as rewarding and worthwhile as possible.

Continue learning more about college life. Check our article on reasons not to go to college—barriers to tertiary education.

Key Insights

• Importance of Early Planning: Applying for a U.S. student visa requires careful and early planning, often starting months ahead of the intended study period.
• Types of Student Visas: There are three primary types of student visas—F, M, and J visas—with the F-1 visa being the most common for academic study at accredited U.S. institutions.
• Stringent Requirements: The application process involves multiple steps including obtaining a Form I-20 from a SEVP-approved school, paying the SEVIS I-901 fee, and completing the DS-160 form, among other requirements.
• Post-9/11 Visa Policies: Stricter visa policies implemented post-9/11 have added layers of security and verification, which can complicate the application process for international students.
• Significance of SEVIS: The Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) tracks and monitors international students and exchange visitors, ensuring compliance with visa regulations.
• Impact of Visa Denial: Visa denials can be due to various reasons such as insufficient financial proof, inadequate documentation, or unsatisfactory interview performance, but reapplication and exploring alternative study options remain viable solutions.
• Global Leading Destination: Despite the challenges, the U.S. remains the top destination for international students, attracting over one million students annually, particularly in STEM fields.
• Post-Study Requirements: F-1 visa holders must leave the U.S. within 60 days after the program end date, emphasizing the importance of maintaining visa status to avoid future immigration issues.

FAQ

1. What types of student visas are available for studying in the U.S.? There are three main types of student visas: F visas for academic study, M visas for vocational study, and J visas for cultural exchange programs. The F-1 visa is the most common for full-time students at accredited U.S. colleges or universities.
2. What is a Form I-20 and why is it important? Form I-20, also known as the Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status, is an essential document provided by a SEVP-approved school. It confirms your acceptance into a program and is required for obtaining an F-1 visa. You need to keep it throughout your stay in the U.S. as an international student.
3. How do I pay the SEVIS I-901 fee and what is its purpose? The SEVIS I-901 fee is $350 and is required to maintain the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System. You need to pay this fee at least three days before your visa interview using options such as credit card, debit card, or international money order. The fee supports the tracking and monitoring of international students in the U.S.
4. What is the DS-160 form and what information is required to complete it? Form DS-160 is the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application form. It requires personal information, passport details, previous U.S. travel history, and a photo meeting specific requirements. After completion, you will receive a confirmation page needed for your visa interview.
5. What additional documents should I bring to my visa interview? Besides the required documents such as your passport, Form I-20, and DS-160 confirmation page, you should also bring academic records, standardized test results, English proficiency test results, recommendation letters, bank statements, and proof of financial support.
6. What should I do if my student visa application is denied? If your visa application is denied, you should ask the interviewer for the reason and address any issues identified. Common reasons for denial include insufficient financial proof, inadequate documentation, or unsatisfactory interview answers. You can reapply after correcting the issues or explore other study options in different countries.
7. When can I enter the U.S. with my F-1 visa, and what should I expect at the port of entry? You can enter the U.S. up to 30 days before the start date of your program. At the port of entry, a Customs and Border Protection (CBP) official will review your documents, including your passport, visa, and Form I-20, to decide if you can enter the country. Be prepared to present additional evidence such as financial resources and the SEVIS I-901 fee receipt.
8. What are the post-study requirements for F-1 visa holders? F-1 visa holders must leave the U.S. within 60 days after the program end date indicated on their Form I-20. Staying beyond this period without proper authorization results in being out-of-status, which voids the visa and may impact future U.S. visa applications.
9. How has the 9/11 attack affected student visa policies in the U.S.? Post-9/11, the U.S. implemented stricter visa policies to enhance national security, including the establishment of SEVIS to track and monitor international students. These measures, while intended to safeguard the country, have made the visa application process more complex for international students.
10. Why is early planning crucial for a successful student visa application? Early planning is essential due to the multiple steps involved in the visa application process, including obtaining necessary documents, paying fees, and scheduling visa interviews. Starting the process well in advance ensures you meet all deadlines and have sufficient time to address any issues that may arise.

References:

• Urias, D., & Yeakey, C. (2009). Analysis of the US visa system: Misperceptions, barriers, and consequences.  Journal of Studies in International Education, 13(1), 72-109. https://doi.org/10.1177/1028315307308135
• Duffin, E. (2020, March 9). Top host destination of international students worldwide in 2019, by number of students. Statista.
• Duffin, E. (2019, November 19). Number of international students studying in the United States in 2018/19, by country of origin. Statista.
• Dimirci, M. (2019, April 25). Transition of international STEM students to the US labor market: The role of visa policy. Economic Inquiry, 57(3), 1367-1391. https://doi.org/10.1111/ecin.12795
• Usher, A. (2019). Has President Trump scared away all the foreign students? Education Next, 19(4).
• US ICE (2018). 2018 SEVIS by the Numbers Report. Washington, DC: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
• US Embassy & Consulates in the United Kingdom (n.d.). Passport and Travel Documents. Washington, DC: US Department of State.