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To study in US for most of the non-US citizens, it is mandatory to apply for an F-1 (non-immigrant) student visa. There are other visas also that are sometimes required for international scholars in US. Mentioned below is a brief description of different visa types one needs to study.

F-1 or Student Visa- F-1 is meant for those who come to US for academic. People who wish to study in a recognized US college and university or for those who like to study English at a University or intensive English language institute. Students are advised to apply for visa as early as possible so that there is a good time for visa processing.

J-1 or Exchange Visitor- this visa is for the people who participate in an exchange visitor program in the US. The “J” visa is meant for educational and cultural programs. The exchange visitor visa is given to persons who are chosen to take part in exchange visitors programs in the US, under provision of US immigration law. The Exchange Visitor Program is helpful to promote mutual understanding between the people of United States and the people from other countries with the exchange of culture and education.

M-1 or Student Visa- this visa is for those individuals who will engage themselves in non academic or vocational study or training at an institution in the United States. It is equally important for non immigrant students that they should be accepted for enrollment in an established school which is SEVP certified.

There are a few important things that every applicant should provide before coming to the US, they are- transcripts and diplomas from previous institutions attended, scores from standardized entrance tests required by colleges and Universities via- TOEFL, SAT, GRE and GMAT. Another important thing that an international student must provide is the financial evidence which proves that you or your parents who are sponsoring you in US are financially capable to support your tuition and living expenses during the period of your intended study.

To apply for a visa at a US embassy or consulate, it is a must to have a SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) generated document (either an I-20 or DS-2019) issued by a US college or university or Department of State-designated sponsor organization. You need to submit this form at the time you apply for a visa. This is important to know you would be only given the appropriate SEVIS-generated form by the U.S. academic institution or program sponsor when you would be academically admitted to the institution or accepted as a participant in an exchange program.

You may apply for a visa, after acquiring all the requisite documentation though you are not ready to begin with the program for the next couple of months. Make sure to apply for the visa early so that there is enough time left for visa processing.

Listed below are some crucial points that are important to remember while applying for a Visa

• Pay the SEVIS fee
• Pay the Visa processing fee
• Make an appointment for the visa interview
• For interview carry along your financial support documents, proof of payment of the SEVIS and visa fee and a complete visa application form.