U.S. Student Visa and Application Process

Students who want to study in the USA can apply for one of the different visa types according to their purpose. The application process, required documents and conditions vary depending on the type of visa. The application process takes approximately 3 weeks. After the application is made, an invitation for an interview is sent to the student approximately 15 days later. 3 days after the interview, the process is completed, and the passport is sent to the person's address. It is important to apply early, as these periods may vary depending on density and consulate decisions. Students should apply for the type of visa that best suits them. There are 3 student visas:

F-1 Student Visa:

It is a visa for international students who want to study in a full-time academic program in the United States. Under this visa, students can participate in various academic programs such as language education, undergraduate, master's or doctoral programs. Additionally, students on an F-1 visa can also gain work experience for a certain period through the OPT (Optional Practical Training) program.

J-type Student Visa:

It is the type of visa given to those who will apply for a US student visa through a short-term interschool student exchange program. Students who will go to America within the scope of student exchange programs carried out in high schools and universities can get detailed information about visas by contacting the authorized persons at their schools.

M-1 Vocational and Technical Education Visa:

It is a visa given to students who want to participate in a vocational or technical education program in the USA. This type of visa is generally for short-term and practically focused training programs based on the skills the student will achieve. Students who receive an M-1 visa can study in the United States to gain skills in a specific field of expertise.

American Student Visa Application Process

• Getting School Admission:

Students who want to study in America must first receive acceptance from an American university or educational institution.

• SEVIS Process:

The accepted student must register with the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) system in the United States and obtain the SEVIS I-20 Form. This form is required for visa application.

• Filling out DS-160 Form:

DS-160 form is a visa application form that must be filled by people who will travel to America. This form must be accepted by the American Embassy or Consulate.

• Paying the Visa Fee:

A certain fee must be paid to apply for a visa. The fee may vary depending on the application type and country.  

• Making an Appointment:

The student who will apply for a visa must make an appointment at the American Consulate or Embassy.

• Collecting Required Documents:

Documents required when applying for a visa include DS-160 form, acceptance certificate, SEVIS I-20 form, passport, biometric photo and payment receipt. Details can be viewed from the list below.

• Interview:

An interview is usually conducted for American student visa applications. During the interview, the student may be asked to explain his or her educational purpose, financial situation, and length of stay in the United States.

• Visa Approval or Rejection:

Following the application, a visa approval or rejection response is received. In case of approval, the student is eligible to travel to America.

American Student Visa Fees:

• Visa Application Fee:

To apply for a US student visa, a visa fee of 185 dollars must be paid.

• SEVIS Fee :

Students who will study in the USA must pay the SEVIS fee to obtain the SEVIS I-20 form. This fee is 350 dollars for students who will receive an F and M type visa, and 220 dollars for those who will receive a J type visa.

• Visa Interview Fee (if any):

In some cases, candidates whose visa applications are accepted may be interviewed and an additional fee may be required for this interview.

Fees and procedures may change over time, so it is important to check up-to-date information on the official website of the American Consulate or Embassy before applying.

Documents Required for American Student Visa

The documents required for the US student visa application are listed below.

• Photocopy of Identity Card
• Form DS-160:

It is a visa application form that must be filled by those who will travel to America. DS-160 form is filled out online.

• Valid Passport:

The applicant must have a valid passport. The passport must be valid during the application period.

• SEVIS I-20 Form:

Students who will study in the United States are required to obtain a SEVIS I-20 form from the school in which they are registered.

• SEVIS Fee Payment Document:

Students must pay the SEVIS fee to study in America. A receipt for this payment is required.

• Letter of acceptance:

The acceptance letter received from the American school where the student plans to study must be documented.

• Visa Application Fee:

To apply for a US student visa, a certain visa fee must be paid and documented.

• Past Transcripts and Diploma:

Transcripts and diploma documents showing the student's previous educational history must be provided.

• Biometric Photo:

Two biometric photographs, 50X50 mm in size, with a white background, are required.

• Financial Documents:

These are documents showing the student's financial situation to cover living and education expenses in America. These documents may include bank statements, sponsor letters or scholarship documents.

• Language Proficiency Certificates:

TOEFL, IELTS, or similar test results must also be presented during the application.