The IIE survey found an increase in international applications to US universities following the easing of travel restrictions. In 2022, Indian students wishing to study in the United States can choose from more than 4,000 American universities. Although admissions are very competitive, the US student visa remains the third most requested visa in the world. Like admission, applying for a US student visa is difficult. The student visa acceptance rate in the United States in 2021 was only 85%.

• F-1 Student Visa: To study at an accredited US college or university or to study English at an English language institute.
• J Exchange Visa: For participation in an exchange program, including high school and university study.
• M Student Visa: For non-academic or vocational study or training in the US

Documents Required for USA Student Visa

Generally, when applying for a student visa to the United States, you will need:

• A passport that is valid for at least six months beyond your stay in the United States (unless exempted by country-specific agreements)
• Admission to a SEVP approved school and form I-20
• Payment of registration fees to SEVIS
• Nonimmigrant visa application and confirmation page of the DS-160 form
• Your photo in the desired format and number
•  Some additional documents that may be required include:
• Academic preparatory documents such as certificates, degrees, diplomas or certificates

Proof that you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay in the United States. This can include:

• Bank statements
• Financial commitment from a sponsor to cover room and board expenses
• a scholarship program
• Proof that you will leave the United States after graduation. This can be in the form of a plane ticket from the United States to your home country.

You may also need to go to the U.S. Embassy or Consulate for an in-person interview.

USA Student Visa Application Process

The student visa application process in the United States consists of several sequential steps. The basic steps to apply for a visa are as follows:

• Step 1: Complete your nonimmigrant visa application online using the DS-160 form.
• Step 2: Upload your photo in the desired format.
• Step 3: Print the application form confirmation page and save it for the interview.
• Step 4: Schedule an interview at the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate in your home country. Students can apply at a US embassy or consulate outside their country, but in this case it will be difficult to obtain a visa.
• Step 5: Pay the non-refundable visa application fee of 160 USD (~ 11,900 INR).
• Step 6: Pay the one-time SEVIS fee for an uninterrupted period of F1, M1 or J1 status.
• Step 7: Collect the documents required for the visa interview.
• Step 8: Attend Visa Interview, After Visa Approval Confirmation Visit, Visit to USA.

USA Student Visa: Fees

Universities in the United States do not charge additional visa application fees. Students should include visa application fees in their budget for studying in the United States. 

Reasons for USA Student Visa Rejection 

The U.S. embassy or consulate in your home country may decline U.S. student visa applications for any of the following reasons:

• Inability to clearly state the purpose of the visit to the United States.
• It reflects a hidden intention to stay in the US and make post-study plans after the program ends.
• Submitting incorrect or missing documents may result in visa refusal.
• Failure to demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to finance your visit to the United States.
• The program or college you applied to is suspicious.
• The fact that your close relatives are already in the US can also be considered a minor reason for your return to the country, which could result in a US visa refusal.
• Applying for an incorrect US visa is another reason for US visa denial.
• Having a criminal record can be a disadvantage when applying for a US student visa.
• Many cancellations and cost overruns on previous trips can have a negative impact.
• Bad relations between the countries of origin and the United States also cause rejection. Fortunately, this is not the case in India at the moment.