United States F-1 Student Visa
Your Gateway to American Universities
The F-1 visa is a non-immigrant student visa that allows international students to pursue academic studies at accredited US educational institutions.
Important Disclaimer
Karan Gupta Consulting is not a visa agent or immigration consultant. This page provides general information for educational purposes only. Visa requirements and processes change frequently. Always verify current requirements with the official embassy, consulate, or immigration authority of United States before applying. We strongly recommend consulting official government sources and, if needed, registered immigration advisors for your specific situation.
Overview
The F-1 Student Visa is the most common visa type for international students pursuing full-time academic studies at US universities, colleges, high schools, language training programs, and other academic institutions. It allows students to remain in the US for the duration of their program plus an optional practical training period.
Eligibility Criteria
Document Requirements
Ensure you have all required documents before starting your application
1Valid Passport
Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay
2Form I-20
Certificate of Eligibility issued by your SEVP-certified school
3DS-160 Confirmation
Online nonimmigrant visa application confirmation page
4SEVIS Fee Receipt
Proof of SEVIS I-901 fee payment ($350 for F-1)
5Visa Fee Payment
MRV fee payment confirmation ($185)
6Passport Photos
Recent photographs meeting US visa photo requirements
7Financial Documents
Bank statements, scholarship letters, sponsor affidavits proving sufficient funds
8Academic Records
Transcripts, diplomas, standardized test scores (SAT, GRE, TOEFL, etc.)
9Admission Letter
Official letter of acceptance from the US institution
Application Process
Step-by-step guide to applying for your United States student visa
Receive I-20
After admission, receive Form I-20 from your SEVP-certified school
Pay SEVIS Fee
Pay the I-901 SEVIS fee at fmjfee.com at least 3 days before your interview
Complete DS-160
Fill out the online DS-160 application at ceac.state.gov
Schedule Interview
Create an account and schedule your visa interview at the nearest US Embassy/Consulate
Attend Interview
Appear for your visa interview with all required documents
Receive Decision
If approved, passport with visa will be returned; if denied, you'll receive explanation
⏱️ Processing Time
3-5 weeks (varies by embassy and season)
Visa Fees
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| SEVIS I-901 Fee | $350 |
| Visa Application Fee (MRV) | $185 |
| Visa Issuance Fee | Varies |
* Fees are approximate and subject to change. Always verify current fees with official sources.
Work Rights
During Studies
Limited to 20 hours/week on-campus during academic sessions; full-time during breaks
After Graduation
Optional Practical Training (OPT) for up to 12 months; STEM OPT extension for additional 24 months
Visa Application Tips
Official Resources
Always refer to official government sources for the most accurate and up-to-date information
Frequently Asked Questions
Explore Other Study Visas
Compare visa requirements for different study destinations
⚠️ Important Reminder
This information is provided for general guidance only. Visa requirements, fees, and processes change frequently. Karan Gupta Consulting does not provide visa application services or immigration advice.
Please contact the official embassy, consulate, or immigration authority of United States for the most current requirements and guidance specific to your situation.