Complete Guide to Applying for a US Student Visa with GlobalLinkAgency

If you are planning to study in the United States, it is essential to understand the types of student visas available and the application process. The GlobalLinkAgency is here to help you every step of the way, ensuring a smooth and efficient transition to your studies in the US.

Types of Student Visas

There are two main types of student visas for the USA:

1. F-1 Visa: For academic and language students.
2. M-1 Visa: For students on technical and vocational courses.

F-1 Visa

• Who can request: Students who want to study at an academic institution in the US, such as a high school, college or university, or in a language training program.
• Duration: Valid for the duration of the course plus an additional period of 60 days to prepare for departure from the USA.
• Work: Allowed to work on campus for up to 20 hours per week during term time and full time during vacation. You may also be eligible for Curricular Practical Training (CPT) and Optional Practical Training (OPT) after completing one academic year.

M-1 Visa

• Who can request: Students who wish to enroll in vocational or technical programs.
• Duration: Valid for up to one year or the duration of the course, whichever is shorter, with the possibility of extension to complete practical studies.
• Work: It is not permitted to work during the course. May be eligible for practical training after course completion.

Steps for Visa Application

A GlobalLinkAgency accompanies you through each of the following essential steps for applying for a student visa:

1. Enrollment at a Certified Institution: First, you must be accepted by a school in the US that is Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) certified.
2. Form I-20: Upon acceptance, the school will provide Form I-20, Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status.
3. SEVIS Fee Payment: Pay the SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) fee.
4. Form DS-160: Complete Form DS-160, Application for Nonimmigrant Visa.
5. Visa Application Fee: Pay the visa application fee.
6. Interview at the Consulate: Schedule and attend an interview at the U.S. consulate or embassy.

Necessary documents

To ensure a smooth application process, the GlobalLinkAgency helps gather and organize all necessary documents, including:

• Form I-20.
• Valid passport.
• Confirmation of completion of Form DS-160.
• Receipt of payment of the SEVIS fee.
• Receipt of payment of the visa application fee.
• Recent photo as per consulate specifications.
• Proof of financial resources to cover expenses during the study period.
• Additional supporting documents that may be requested, such as academic transcripts and acceptance letters.