It can be difficult to understand the complicated world of US visas, for students . Of all the visa categories available, the student visa category is particularly useful for individuals looking to pursue education in the US. Whether you need a F or M visa depends on your course of study and the kind of school you intend to attend. In this blog, we will discuss F or M visa, their requirements, the application process, necessary documents and interview tips for students and their dependents.

Student Visa Overview

F Visa

You need to be classified under one of several visa categories to enroll in different US educational institutions. You will need a F visa if you intend to enroll in a college or university. Likewise, to attend a private elementary school or high school, you need to apply for a F visa. The F visa is also required if you are enrolling in a language training course.

M Visa

However, you require a M visa in order to enroll in a vocational school or any other approved non-academic institution. You can make sure that the application process goes well and that you may effectively continue your education in the US by being aware of the particular visa requirements for each kind of institution. If you are seeking information regarding visa for business and tourism purposes, visit B-1/B-2 Visa Applications: What You Need to Know. 

Apply to a SEVP Approved School

To study in the United States, you first need to apply to a SEVP-approved school. Once the school accepts your enrollment, you will be registered in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) and must pay the SEVIS I-901 fee. The school then issue you a Form I-20. After receiving the Form I-20 and completing your SEVIS registration, you can apply for an F or M visa at a US Embassy or Consulate. Bring the Form I-20 to your visa interview as it is required by the consular officer.

Steps to Apply for Student Visa

The student visa application process includes multiple steps. The procedures and their sequence of completion may differ depending on the U.S. Embassy or Consulate. If you are seeking to applying for US Immigrant Visas, visit : The Ultimate Guide to US Immigrant Visas: Everything You Need to Know

Complete Online Student Visa Application

Fill Out Form DS-160. After completing the application, print the confirmation page. You need to bring this page to your visa interview. During the online application process, you must upload a photo. Ensure your photo meets the specified Photograph Requirements.

Schedule Your Interview

Visa applicants generally need an interview, although there are some exceptions based on age. For those 13 and younger, an interview is generally not required. On the other hand, applicants aged 14 to 79 usually need an interview, with some exceptions for renewals. Additionally, individuals 80 and older typically do not require an interview. You should schedule your visa interview at the US Embassy or Consulate in your country of residence.

Student Visa Issuance and Entry Rules

New students can obtain their F and M visas up to 365 days before their course begins. However, they cannot enter the United States on their student visa more than 30 days before the start date. In contrast, continuing students, who are already enrolled at a SEVP-approved school and registered in SEVIS, can get their student visas at any time. Furthermore, continuing students can enter the United States at any time before their classes start.

Gather the documents

Before your visa interview, gather and prepare the following required documents

• Valid passport
• Separate visa applications for each family member
• DS-160 confirmation page
• Visa application fee payment receipt
• Uploaded photo meeting requirements or a printed photo
• Signed Form I-20 from your SEVP-approved school
• SEVIS registration for all students

Attend the Interview

A consular official will assess your eligibility for a student visa during your interview and might ask for more supporting documents. These  could contain any test scores that your US school requires, along with proof of your academic background such as  diplomas, transcripts, degrees, or certifications from prior institutions attended. Along with documentation the officer will also want to see how you intend to pay for your expenses. To prove your eligibility and ability to study in the US, it’s critical to be ready to present these documents.

If your visa gets approved, you will need to arrange for the return of your passport along with the visa and pay a fees that varies depending on your nationality.

Conclusion

In conclusion, it might be difficult to get around US visas, particularly for students. For students pursuing studies in the United States, the F and M visas are essential, depending on the course and type of school. For students and their dependents, this blog has addressed requirements, applications, documents, and interview tips. Every step is crucial to guaranteeing a seamless process, from submitting an application to a school approved by SEVP and acquiring Form I-20 to the interview and visa application procedure. Processing of the passport return and fees is the last step after approval. Please visit our website, the US Passport Help Guide, for more information on US visas and passports.