Weeks spent examining the requirements of different types of US Visas, working out to solve everything, scouring the internet to clear your doubts regarding admission procedure, scholarships and everything else and it all boils down to you getting the answer as – Your visa has been approved!
The importance of a visa is huge in a student’s life. Obtaining your visa is the last and final step of your dream of pursuing higher education from abroad. Once your visa is approved, nothing and no one can stop you from attending your dream college. Although time-consuming, the practice of obtaining a US visa is pretty straightforward. There are various US visa types to consider.
The first thing that you need to do is fill the DS-160 Visa Application Form online.
Keep the following documents handy with you before filling out the form:
- Passport and Planned Itinerary
- Employment History
- Digital Photograph
- Contact Information
- Travel History
The DS-160 form can be accessed at the US Embassy Website. The form requires around an hour to complete. Be cautious while filling out the form and answer all the questions carefully. An alpha-numeric barcode confirmation page will be generated after the completion of the DS-160 form which will be needed for the appointment at the Visa Application Center and the interview at the Embassy.
The next step is scheduling an appointment for an interview with a US embassy or consultancy. Make sure your paperwork is all sorted. Whether or not you would be getting a visa depends on your performance in the interview so be prepared for it. You should be confident and honest while answering the questions asked by the interviewer.
Make sure that all your documents are clear to prevent any discrepancies. There is a chance that your visa may be denied if the official feels that you are going to the US to live permanently, so make sure that you do not show any such intentions of settling in the US.
US non-immigrant visas have been classified into various categories are here we have listed down the types of US Visas
Different Types Of US Visa For Students
Many international students aspire to study in the United States, given its reputation as home to prestigious higher education institutions. Fortunately, there are several types of student visas available for this purpose. Here’s a concise overview of the three primary categories of non-immigrant student visas:
1. F-Visa
The F-Visa category is for international students seeking to pursue degree programmes at recognised U.S. universities or intensive English language courses.
Types of F-Visas:
- F1-Visa: For full-time academic students at various levels from elementary school to graduate school.
- F2-Visa: For dependents of F1 visa holders (spouses and children).
- F3-Visa: Reserved for students commuting from Mexico or Canada to attend schools in the United States.
Requirements for F1-Visa:
- Acceptance into a SEVP-recognised institution.
- Full-time student status.
- Demonstrated intent to return home after completing the educational programme.
- Sufficient funds to cover tuition and living expenses.
- Proficiency in English (e.g., IELTS/TOEFL).
Documents Required for F1-Visa Application:
- Valid Passport
- Two Photographs
- Proof of Visa Application Fee Payment
- Form I-20
- Academic Credentials
- Standardised Exam Results
- Health Insurance Proof
Application Process:
- Obtain admission documents from the SEVP organisation.
- Complete the DS-160 form online.
- Pay the application fee.
- Pay the SEVIS I-901 fee.
- Schedule an F1 visa interview.
- Submit the necessary documents for the visa application.
- Attend the visa interview.
2. M-Visa
M-Visas cater to foreign students interested in non-academic or vocational training programmes in the United States.
Types of M-Visas:
- M1-Visa: For vocational training programmes.
- M2-Visa: For dependents of M1 visa holders.
- M3-Visa: Reserved for students commuting from Mexico or Canada for vocational training.
Requirements for M1-Visa:
- Admission to a SEVP-recognised school.
- Intent to return home after programme completion.
- Sufficient funds for tuition and living expenses.
- Proficiency in English (e.g., IELTS/TOEFL).
Documents Required for M1-Visa Application:
- Valid Passport
- Two Photographs
- Proof of Visa Application Fee Payment
- Form I-20
- Academic Credentials
- Proof of Financial Stability
Application Process for M1-Visa:
- Obtain the I-20 form.
- Complete the DS-160 form online.
- Pay the application fee.
- Pay the SEVIS I-901 fee.
- Schedule an M1 visa interview.
- Submit the necessary documents for the visa application.
- Attend the visa interview.
3. J-Visa
J-Visas are designed for foreign students participating in U.S. programmes promoting cultural exchange.
Types of J-Visas:
- J1-Visa: For exchange students.
- J2-Visa: For dependents of J1 visa holders.
Requirements for J1-Visa:
Requirements vary based on the specific J1 student visa category, including Au Pair, Camp Counselor, Government Visitor, Intern, International Visitor, Physician, Professor, Research Scholar, Short-term Scholar, Specialist, Student at school/university level, Summer Work Traveler, and Teacher Trainee. Each category has its unique criteria.
Documents Required for J1-Visa Application:
- Valid Visa
- Photograph
- Non-immigrant Visa Application Form
- Visa Fee Payment Receipt
- Form DS-2019
- Form DS-7002 (for some categories)
- J1 Visa Health Insurance
Application Process for J1-Visa:
- Complete the relevant application form.
- Schedule an interview with the U.S. embassy or consulate.
- Pay the application fee.
- Submit the necessary documents for the J1 visa application.
- Attend the visa interview.
Note: The specific requirements and processes may vary, so it’s essential to consult the official U.S. embassy or consulate website for the most up-to-date information on student visa applications.
4. Dependent Visas
In line with F-1, M-1, and J-1 visas, family members of the visa holders receive related derivative visas—F-2, M-2, and J-2 visas. These dependents may pursue education or employment opportunities in the United States, subject to specific conditions and authorization from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Comparison Of Different Types Of Student Visa In US
This table provides a quick overview of the key differences between the F1, J1, and M1 visas for students planning to study in the US.
| Particulars | F1 Visa | J1 Visa | M1 Visa |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average Cost | $350 USD | $300 USD | $160 USD |
| Duration Post Completion | Up to 12 months | Up to 2 years | Up to 3 years |
| Work Benefits | 20 hours/week | Varies | 6 months part-time on campus |
FAQs
1. Who is eligible for an M2-Visa?
An M2-Visa is designed for students who wish to enrol in a vocational training programme, whether on a full-time or part-time basis.
2. What are different types of US student visas?
Various types of US student visas serve to cater to diverse educational programmes, such as F-1 for full-time courses, M-1 for vocational training, and J-1 for international exchange participants. This categorization aids the immigration department in efficient application process.
3. Which visa is fastest in US?
The F-1 student visa is known for its speedy processing, often completed just before the embassy interview.
4. Can a student convert their M1-Visa to F1-Visa?
Yes, M1 visa holders can transition to an F1 visa by following the appropriate procedures.
5. How long can you stay in the U.S. after F-1 expires?
F1 visa regulations offer a 60-day grace period for departing the United States. The grace period concludes upon your departure from the United States or within 60 days after the expiration of your I-20 or EAD card (if you’re on OPT).
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