US Student or F1 Visa for Indian Students

US student visa fees are divided into the SEVIS fee and Visa Application fee.
US Student Visa Fee Table (2025)

A complete and accurate document set greatly improves approval chances.

✅ Mandatory Personal Documents

Valid passport (minimum 6+ months validity beyond stay)
DS-160 confirmation page
SEVIS payment receipt
Appointment confirmation letter
Recent passport-size photographs(if applicable, mostly for below 14yrs)

📘Academic Documents Required

Form I-20 issued by the US institution
Admission/acceptance letter
Official academic transcripts & certificates
English proficiency scores (IELTS/TOEFL/PTE)
Standardised test scores (SAT/GRE/GMAT, if required)
Statement of Purpose (SOP) (not required)
1–3 Letters of Recommendation (LORs) (not required)

💰 Financial Documents Required

You must prove that you can cover 1 year of tuition + living expenses.

Common proofs include:
Bank statements (last 6 months)
Loan sanction letter (if you have)
Affidavit of support (if funded by family)
Income documents (salary slips, ITR, CA valuation) (for working professional)
Fixed deposits / provident fund statements (if applicable)
Scholarship / assistantship letter (if applicable)

Step-by-Step F-1 Visa Process

1. Get admission from an SEVP-approved US institution.

2. Receive Form I-20 from the Designated School Official (DSO).

3. Pay the SEVIS fee using the Sevis ID on your I-20. You can pay anytime before US visa interview appointment. Here is the link https://www.fmjfee.com/i901fee/index.htm

4. Fill the DS-160 form online and important to save application ID while creating. Here is the link https://ceac.state.gov/genniv

5. Pay the visa application fee (MRV fee). Each country has their own consulate website to pay fee,  you need to selected your preferred country of attending interview here is the link Preferred country for f1 visa. For indian students you can apply from here f1 visa appointment booking

6. Schedule biometric (VAC) appointment for fingerprints & photo.

7. Schedule your visa interview at the US Embassy/Consulate.

8. Attend the interview and submit any additional documents requested.

9. Receive visa decision and collect your passport.
   
   TIP: Your fill your ds160 with accurate data to avoid rejections.

Biometric VAC Centers in India

US Embassy & Consulates in India

Your interview determines whether you receive the visa.

What the Visa Officer Evaluates

• Intent to study (not immigrate)
• Financial capability
• Academic preparedness
• Strong home ties
• Genuine purpose & clarity of goals

What to Expect

• 2–7 minute one-on-one interview
• Officer may ask about:

         Your program & university
         Funding sources
         Future goall
         Family background
        Reason for choosing USA

Tips for a Successful Interview

• Keep answers brief & genuine
• Maintain confident body language
• Carry organized documents
• Avoid memorized or exaggerated responses

Do’s

• Use accurate & consistent information across all forms
• Keep financial documents updated
• Prepare short, clear answers
• Show proof of strong home ties
• Dress neatly & professionally

Don’ts

• Don’t provide misleading or incomplete information
• Don’t show fake or unverifiable financial documents
• Don’t mention long-term stay plans
• Don’t argue with the visa officer
• Don’t memorize scripted answers

Understanding common rejection reasons helps you avoid mistakes.

Top Rejection Reasons

• Insufficient financial proof
• Weak academic profile or unclear plans
• Inconsistent or incorrect documentation
• Doubt about your intent to return to India
• Unprepared or nervous interview responses
• Previous visa violations or travel issues
• University not being credible or SEVP-approved

How to Avoid Rejection

• Demonstrate strong finances
• Choose reputable universities
• Provide genuine, consistent information
• Prepare for the interview thoroughly