Step 1: get accepted and obtain Form I-20
The F-1 visa process begins before you contact a US embassy. You must first receive acceptance from a school or program certified by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) — the DHS program that oversees international student enrollment. Once accepted, your Designated School Official (DSO) issues Form I-20, a document that certifies your enrollment, program end date, and estimated cost of attendance. The I-20 is essential — it is the basis for paying the SEVIS fee and applying for your visa.
After receiving your I-20, pay the $350 SEVIS I-901 fee at fmjfee.com and save your payment receipt. SEVIS registration must be paid before your visa application is submitted — it is verified at the embassy interview.
The visa application process
With the I-20 and SEVIS receipt in hand, complete Form DS-160 (Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application) at ceac.state.gov. Pay the $185 MRV (Machine Readable Visa) application fee through the embassy's designated payment method. Book a consular interview at the nearest US embassy or consulate — wait times vary from days to several months depending on location.
At the interview, you will be asked about your study plans, financial support, ties to your home country, and post-graduation plans. The officer must determine that you are a genuine student with the means to support yourself and the intent to return home after completing your program (nonimmigrant intent under INA §214(b)).
Financial proof requirements
Your I-20 lists the school's estimated annual cost of attendance — typically $30,000–$80,000+ for top private universities. You must demonstrate the ability to fund at least the first year from your own or family resources: bank statements (3–6 months), a fixed deposit certificate, scholarship letters, or a sponsor's letter with their financial documents. The funds must be genuinely available — showing a large balance that appeared just before the interview (without explanation) can raise red flags.
Related Questions
Can I work in the US on an F-1 visa?
Yes, with restrictions. On-campus employment is allowed for up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during breaks. Off-campus employment requires authorization: CPT (during the program) or OPT (after graduation), obtained through your DSO.
How early can I enter the US before my program starts?
F-1 students may enter the US up to 30 days before their program start date as listed on the I-20. Arriving earlier is not permitted on the F-1 visa.
What is status D/S on the I-94 and what does it mean?
'Duration of Status' (D/S) on the I-94 means your authorized stay is tied to your student status — not a fixed date. You are authorized to remain as long as you maintain full-time enrollment. Once you complete your degree, your authorized stay is your program end date plus a 60-day grace period.
Can I transfer my F-1 visa to a different US school?
Yes. F-1 students can transfer SEVIS records to a new SEVP-certified school. You must inform your current DSO, who initiates the SEVIS transfer. You are not required to leave the US or apply for a new visa for an internal transfer.
How long is the F-1 visa valid vs the length of my stay?
The F-1 visa stamp may be valid for 1–5 years depending on nationality (some countries issue single-entry). But the authorized length of stay is D/S — your actual stay is unlimited as long as you maintain student status. The visa is only for re-entry, not for the duration of stay.
Official Sources
This guide is general information, not legal advice. Fees and processing times change; always confirm with the official government source before acting.