U.S. Student Visa Campus Resources for International Students

1. What documents are needed to apply for a U.S. student visa?


In order to apply for a U.S. student visa, you will need to provide the following documents:

1. A valid passport
2. DS-160 (Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application)
3. Confirmation Page from the DS-160
4. SEVIS Fee Payment Receipt
5. F-1 Visa Photographs
6. Documents proving financial support
7. Evidence of a career path, such as letters of recommendation or transcripts
8. Evidence of English proficiency, such as TOEFL scores
9. Evidence of Academic Qualifications, such as diplomas or certificates

2. How can international students obtain a student visa once they are accepted to a U.S. college or university?


International students can obtain a student visa once they are accepted to a U.S. college or university by visiting the local U.S. embassy or consulate in their home country and applying for a student visa. The student will need to provide proof of acceptance to the U.S. college or university, have a valid passport, and demonstrate that they have enough funds to cover their tuition, living expenses, health insurance, and any additional expenses while studying in the United States.

3. How long does it take to obtain a U.S. student visa?


The amount of time it takes to obtain a U.S. student visa varies depending on the individual’s particular situation and the country that they are applying from. Generally, it is recommended to allow at least 3-4 months for the entire application process, including visa interviews and document processing.

4. Does the visa process vary by country of origin?


Yes, the visa process varies by country of origin, as each country has its own specific requirements and procedures for obtaining a visa.

5. Where can international students find assistance in understanding the visa process and preparing their paperwork?


International students can contact their university’s international student office for assistance in understanding the visa process and preparing their paperwork. Additionally, international students can find support from the Department of Homeland Security’s US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The USCIS website provides information and resources for international students.

6. How long is a U.S. student visa valid for?


A U.S. student visa is typically valid for the duration of the student’s program of study in the United States, plus 60 days.

7. Are there any restrictions on the types of activities international students can do while in the United States with a student visa?


Yes, there are restrictions on the types of activities international students can do while in the United States with a student visa. They must remain enrolled as a full-time student and must not exceed the work hours permitted by their visa. International students must also maintain valid immigration status at all times and any work must be related to their studies or approved by their school or the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. Additionally, some activities might require additional authorization. Depending on the student’s country of origin, they may need additional visas or permits to engage in certain activities such as internships, clinical rotations, or research.

8. Are there additional documents or forms that international students may be required to submit with their visa application?


Yes, additional documents and forms may be required for international students to submit with their visa application. These may include financial documents indicating sufficient funds to cover tuition and living expenses, a copy of the student’s passport, academic transcripts, evidence of language proficiency, and other documents that demonstrate the student’s ability to succeed academically in the U.S. The visa application form itself will provide guidance on necessary documents.

9. Does a student visa guarantee admission to a U.S. college or university?


No, a student visa does not guarantee admission to a U.S. college or university. Each school has its own admission requirements and applicants must meet them in order to be accepted.

10. What happens if an international student’s visa application is denied?


If an international student’s visa application is denied, they will likely need to reapply for the visa and provide additional information or documentation that may support their application. Depending on their circumstances, they may also need to return to their home country and reapply from there. The visa refusal letter will provide details about the reasons for the refusal and what steps should be taken next.

11. Is it possible to extend a student visa after it has been issued?


Yes, it is possible to extend a student visa after it has been issued. The process for extending a student visa involves submitting an application to the relevant government department. The application must provide evidence of continued study and continued financial support for the studies.

12. Does a student’s visa need to be renewed after each academic year?


It depends on the visa type. Generally, student visas are valid for the duration of the educational program, but some visas may need to be renewed annually or even more frequently. It is important to check the specific requirements of the visa before applying.

13. Are there any restrictions on the number of hours that an international student can work while in the United States on a student visa?


Yes, international students are limited to working a maximum of 20 hours per week during the academic year. During official school breaks, such as summer and winter vacations, students are able to work full-time, up to 40 hours per week. Additionally, students must make sure that they are not compromising their studies by working too much.

14. Are there any specific regulations for travel while in the United States on a student visa?


Yes, there are certain regulations for travel while in the United States on a student visa. These regulations vary depending on the individual’s visa type and the country from which they are traveling. Generally, students with F-1 or M-1 visas may travel outside of the United States, but must obtain a valid travel signature from their Designated School Official (DSO) prior to leaving. Additionally, students must maintain a full course of study and make normal progress toward completing their educational program while in the United States. Students must also be in valid status while traveling and should check with their DSO prior to traveling to ensure they will be able to return to the United States under their current visa type.

15. What services are available on campus to assist international students in maintaining their legal status while studying in the United States?


International student services on campus typically include advising on visa regulations, assistance with paperwork, and providing guidance on immigration laws. Many universities also offer workshops and seminars on immigration topics, and many have an international student office that provides one-on-one assistance to international students. In addition, there may be resources on campus related to the job search process for international students, or even support groups and cultural conversations to help international students adjust to life in the United States.

16. Where can international students find answers to questions about taxes and other financial obligations while studying in the United States?


International students can find answers to questions about taxes and other financial obligations from their college or university’s international student office. In addition, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) website has comprehensive information about taxes for international students. The U.S. Department of State also provides information for non-immigrant students on visas, including F-1 and J-1 visas.

17. How can international students access health insurance coverage while studying in the United States?


International students can access health insurance coverage while studying in the United States by purchasing an international student health insurance plan from an insurance provider. These plans typically provide coverage for medical expenses, including hospital stays, doctor visits, emergency care, prescription drugs, and other health-related costs. Some schools may also offer health insurance plans for international students as a part of their tuition fees, so it is important for international students to check with their schools about available coverage options.

18. Are there any programs offered by U.S. colleges and universities that can assist international students with their transition to life in the United States, including orientation, homestay programs, and language programming?


Yes, there are many programs offered by U.S. colleges and universities to assist international students with their transition to life in the United States. These programs range from orientation programs, to homestay programs, to language programming. Some universities even offer special programs for international students, such as cultural adjustment seminars, international student clubs, and access to immigration advisors. Many universities also offer a variety of services such as health insurance, academic advising, and financial aid counseling to help international students adjust to their new environment.

19. Are there any scholarships available specifically for international students studying in the United States?


Yes, there are scholarships available specifically for international students studying in the United States. Here are a few examples:

-The Institute of International Education (IIE) offers the IIE Andrew Heiskell Awards for International Students, which provide financial assistance to international students who are enrolled in degree-seeking programs in the United States.

-The American Institute for Foreign Study (AIFS) provides a range of scholarships for international students at undergraduate and graduate levels.

-The Institute of International Education’s (IIE) Generation Study Abroad initiative provides the Generation Study Abroad Scholarship, which provides funding to help international students pursue a degree in the United States.

-The Association of International Educators (NAFSA) provides a variety of scholarships and grants for international students, including the NAFSA Global Access Scholarship, which provides financial assistance to students who are enrolled in degree-seeking programs in the United States.

20. Are there any resources available for international students who are experiencing difficulties adjusting to life in the United States or struggling with academic progress?


Yes, there are many resources available for international students who are experiencing difficulties adjusting to life in the United States or struggling with academic progress. International Student Advisors can provide support and counsel on the unique issues faced by international students. Additionally, many universities have counseling and well-being services that can provide assistance with stress, anxiety, and depression. The American College Counseling Association also provides a comprehensive list of mental health resources for international students in the United States.