How To Apply For USA Study Visa
Studying abroad in the United States is an exciting opportunity that many Nigerian students dream of. Getting accepted to a US university or college is a major achievement, but you still need to obtain a student visa to enter the US as an international student.
The US student visa application process can seem daunting, but when broken down step-by-step, it becomes more manageable. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to apply for a US student visa as a Nigerian student.
Background on US Student Visas
The main type of visa for students is the F-1 student visa. This allows you to enter the US to study full-time at an accredited university, college, high school, private elementary school, seminary, conservatory, or language training program. The F-1 visa holder is allowed to work part-time on campus while studying, and can stay in the US for up to 60 days after completing their program.
The other type of student visa is the J-1 exchange visitor visa. This is for students participating in work-and-study based exchange visitor programs. The J-1 visa holder can work part-time off campus and is allowed to stay in the US for 30 days after finishing their program.
In order to be approved for either visa, you must first be accepted into a Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) certified school. This certification ensures the institution is eligible to accept international students. You will also need to prove you have sufficient funds to cover tuition and living expenses.
Step 1: Get Accepted to a SEVP Certified School
The first step is securing acceptance at a US university, college, or school that is SEVP certified. Make sure your chosen institution can issue the immigration Form I-20, which is needed for the F-1 visa application. For the J-1 visa, check if your program sponsor is designated by the US State Department.
Once accepted, the school will send you the I-20 or DS-2019 form. These documents verify you are eligible for the student visa categories. Don’t lose these forms as you will need them for your visa interview.
Step 2: Pay the SEVIS Fee
All applicants for US student visas must pay the I-901 Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) fee. This is a one-time $350 fee to cover the costs of the SEVIS system that tracks and monitors student visa participants.
The SEVIS fee can be paid online through the I-901 website. Be sure to print out the payment confirmation receipt. You will need to show this receipt at your visa interview as proof of payment.
Step 3: Complete the Visa Application
The next step is to complete the Nonimmigrant Visa Electronic Application (DS-160) online form. You can find the DS-160 form on the US Department of State website.
Fill out each section with your personal details, passport information, contact details in the US, and student visa details. Double check that all information entered is accurate before submitting. Print out the DS-160 confirmation page. You will need it at your interview along with your I-20 or DS-2019 form.
Schedule a visa interview appointment at your closest US embassy or consulate. Interviews are generally scheduled several weeks in advance, so book it as soon as possible.
Step 4: Pay the Visa Application Fee
You must pay the visa application fee after submitting the DS-160 form. The fee is $160. Payment can be made online through the DS-160 website. Just like the SEVIS fee, print out the receipt to bring to your visa interview.
Step 5: Prepare for the Visa Interview
The visa interview is your chance to prove to the consular officer that you meet the requirements for a US student visa. Here are some tips to prepare for your student visa interview:
• Review your application documents and know the purpose of your study/exchange program. Be ready to explain why you chose your particular school or program.
• Be able to explain how you are funding your studies, with either scholarships, sponsor funds, or personal/family funds. Bring financial documents as evidence.
• Bring originals and photocopies of all required documents: passport, I-20/DS-2019 form, financial evidence, SEVIS and visa fee receipts.
• Know details about the school: tuition costs, program duration, degree title, etc.
• Practice answering interview questions about your future career plans and intentions to return to Nigeria after finishing your studies.
• Dress professionally for the interview. Speak clearly and confidently. Be honest and direct when answering questions.
Step 6: Attend the Visa Interview
It is now time for your visa interview. Arrive at the embassy/consulate early. Go through security and check in at the visa appointment counter.
When called, approach the interview window and hand over your application documents. The consular officer will ask you questions about your program plans and intentions to study in the US. Answer honestly – don’t try to mislead the officer.
Make sure you have all the required documents. Give clear and concise answers. Be polite throughout the short interview. Avoid getting into arguments with the officer.
Before leaving, make sure you have received your original documents back, except for any forms the officer may keep.
Step 7: Receive Your Passport with Visa
If approved after the interview, your passport with visa will be ready for pickup within a few business days. Call or email the visa office to check when it is ready.
Examine your passport when collected. Make sure all details on the visa are accurate and you received the appropriate F-1 or J-1 visa type.
Once you receive your US student visa, notify your university and make travel plans.
Conclusion
The road to getting a student visa may seem long, but taking it step-by-step makes it manageable. Secure your acceptance at a US school, complete the visa application diligently, prepare documents thoroughly, and attend your visa interview confidently. Stay calm and patient throughout the process. If approved, you will soon be embarking on an educational adventure in the United States.