United States — F-1 Student Visa
Official requirements and preparation checklist
Visa Readiness Guide: These requirements are sourced from official government websites. Always verify current requirements directly with the official source before proceeding. Requirements may change without notice.
SEVP-Approved School Acceptance
You must be accepted by a school certified by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) and receive an I-20 form.
Form I-20
Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status issued by your SEVP-approved school.
DS-160 Online Application
Complete the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application Form DS-160.
SEVIS Fee Payment (I-901)
Pay the I-901 SEVIS Fee ($350 for F-1 students) before your visa interview. Pay at FMJfee.com. Note: applicants from Cameroon, Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, or The Gambia must pay by money order, Western Union Quick Pay, or certified check from a U.S. bank.
Valid Passport
Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your period of stay.
Visa Interview
Schedule and attend a visa interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in your country.
Financial Documentation
Provide evidence of sufficient funds to cover tuition, fees, and living expenses for your period of study.
MRV Visa Application Fee
Pay the Machine-Readable Visa (MRV) application fee of $185 (non-refundable). This is separate from the SEVIS fee. Receipt valid for one year from payment date.