The process from obtaining an I-20 (Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status) to obtaining a U.S. student visa typically involves several steps. Keep in mind that the process may vary depending on the specific circumstances and the U.S. embassy or consulate in your home country..
If you want to apply in the U.S, DR Education Consulting will help you in all the following process.
1. Receive Acceptance Letter:
you first need to apply and get accepted by a U.S. school or university. Once accepted, the school will send you an acceptance letter and the I-20 form.
2. Pay the SEVIS Fee:
Before applying for a visa, you must pay the SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) fee. This fee helps fund the SEVIS program, which tracks international students and exchange visitors during their stay in the U.S. You can pay this fee online.
3. Complete the DS-160 Form:
fill out the DS-160 form online. This form is used to apply for a U.S. visa.
4. Schedule Visa Appointment:
DR Education Consulting helps you to schedule a visa appointment. Be prepared to pay the visa application fee, which may vary based on your nationality and visa type.
5. Attend Visa Interview:
DR Education Consulting helps you to attend your visa interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate. You will need to bring several documents, including your I-20, DS-160 confirmation page, SEVIS fee receipt, passport, visa application fee receipt, and proof of financial support.
6. Visa Interview:
During the interview, a consular officer will ask you questions about your intended stay in the U.S., your program of study, and your ties to your home country. Be prepared to provide clear and honest answers.
7. Visa Approval/Denial:
if your visa is approved, the consular officer will place a visa sticker in your passport. If it’s denied, they will provide a reason for the denial. If your visa is approved, they will provide instructions on when and how to pick up your passport with the visa stamp.
8. Travel to the U.S.:
Once you have your visa, you can make travel arrangements to the United States. Remember that you can typically enter the U.S. up to 30 days before the start date on your I-20.
9. Arrival in the U.S.:
When you arrive in the U.S., you will go through Customs and Border Protection (CBP) procedures at the port of entry. Be prepared to present your passport, visa, and I-20 to the CBP officer.
10. Maintaining Status:
Once in the U.S., it’s essential to follow the regulations outlined on your I-20 to maintain your F-1 student status. This includes attending classes, reporting any changes in your program or address, and not engaging in unauthorized employment.
