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Applying for a Student Visa

International Student and Scholar Services | Applying for a Student Visa

Citizens of all countries except Canada are required to have the appropriate visa stamps in their passports if they are to enter the United States in student status.  If you have a valid F-1 or J-1 visa in your passport, you will not need to obtain a new one.  To apply for a visa, you will need to submit the following documents to the United States embassy or consulate:

  1. Application for Nonimmigrant Visa Form DS-156
  2. Form DS-158
  3. The consular officer might also ask you to complete and sign Form DS-157
  4. Appropriate application fees. Click here to determine the amount of the application fee.
  5. Check with the consulate for how the fees must be paid.
  6. One photograph (1Ω inches square [37 x 37mm], showing full face, without head covering, against a light background).  Please note that if your religious order requires your head to be covered, you should attach an explanation about this religious requirement.
  7. Passport valid for travel to the United States and with a validity date at least 6 months beyond the intended period of stay in the United States.
  8. Either a duly endorsed Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant  (F-1) Student Status (DS-2019)
  9. Evidence of admission to SAIS, such as a letter of admission or a letter from the international student advisor confirming your admission
  10. Original documents proving the availability of sufficient funds (the total of all amounts in item 7 on your form  I-20 or item 5 on your form DS-2019)
  11. Documents that demonstrate that you intend to return home. Click here to learn more.

Application procedures vary considerably from one country to another.  We advise you to contact the consulate where you will submit your application for the most recent application procedures.

If you have a visa interview, it will be short.  During this time, you must make a good impression.  Be positive and respond to the questions with clear, concise answers.  If your wife and children will remain in your country, be prepared to explain how they will support themselves in your absence.