United States student visa for Indians – F-1 Student visa
The F-1 visa is for full-time study at a US college or university approved by SEVP. You first get admitted and receive a Form I-20, pay the SEVIS fee, and then attend a visa interview at the US Embassy or a consulate in India.
Intakes: Fall (Aug–Sep) · Spring (Jan)
Key facts
- Visa fee: USD 185 visa fee (MRV) + USD 350 SEVIS I-901 fee
- Living funds: At least the first-year cost shown on your I-20 (tuition + living costs)
- English test: TOEFL, IELTS, PTE or Duolingo — as your university requires
- Work while studying: On campus up to 20 hours a week in term; full-time in breaks
- After graduation: OPT up to 12 months; STEM graduates can apply for a 24-month extension
- Interview: Yes — in person at the US Embassy or a consulate
- When to apply: The visa can be issued up to 365 days before your I-20 start date
- Family: Spouse and children can apply for F-2 visas (they cannot work)
Important updates
- You can enter the US up to 30 days before your programme start date.
- F, M and J applicants are asked to set their social media accounts to “public” so they can be reviewed.
- A USD 250 “visa integrity fee” is in US law — check whether it is being collected in India before you pay.
Documents
- Passport valid 6+ months beyond your stay
- Form I-20 signed by you and your school
- DS-160 confirmation page
- SEVIS I-901 fee receipt
- Visa fee (MRV) receipt and appointment letter
- Admission letter
- Mark sheets, degrees and test scores
- Proof of funds: bank statements, education loan sanction, sponsor letter with ITRs
- Photo 2×2 inch (51×51 mm)
How to apply
- Get admitted – Receive your Form I-20 from a SEVP-approved school.
- Pay SEVIS fee – Pay the I-901 fee at fmjfee.com at least a few days before your appointment.
- DS-160 and visa fee – Fill the DS-160 and pay the MRV fee.
- Biometrics and interview – Visit the OFC for biometrics, then the embassy or consulate for the interview.
- Passport back – If approved, your passport is returned with the visa.