Navigating the US F-1 Student Visa Application & SEVIS Fee

For international students planning to study a Bachelor, Master, or PhD at a US university, securing an F-1 Student Visa is the passport to their academic dreams. The US visa application process is unique because it combines online registration with a mandatory in-person interview at a US embassy or consulate.

In this guide, we simplify the F-1 visa application process, document checklists, and the mandatory SEVIS fee.

Step 1: Obtain Your Form I-20

Once you are accepted into a US university certified by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP), the school will issue your Form I-20 (Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status).

  • The I-20 contains your unique SEVIS ID (starting with N).
  • It details your program dates, estimated tuition fees, and living expenses for one academic year.

Step 2: Pay the SEVIS I-901 Fee

Before scheduling your visa interview, you must register in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) and pay the SEVIS I-901 fee.

  • The current SEVIS fee for F-1 students is $350 USD.
  • You must pay this online at the official FMJfee portal and print the payment receipt.

Step 3: Complete the Online Form DS-160

The DS-160 (Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application) is the primary application form used by the US Department of State.

  • Fill out the DS-160 with accurate details about your personal history, education, and target US university.
  • Upload a compliant passport photo.
  • Save the DS-160 confirmation page containing your barcode.

Step 4: Pay the Visa Application Fee & Schedule Appointments

Create an account on the official US visa scheduling portal for your country.

  1. Pay the visa application fee (currently $185 USD).
  2. Schedule two appointments:
    • VAC Appointment: For registering biometrics (fingerprints and photo) at the Visa Application Center.
    • Consular Appointment: For your face-to-face visa interview at the US Embassy or Consulate.

Prepare your US university documentation and financial proof checklists on Studplex.

Step 5: Attend Your Visa Interview

You must bring your physical passport, I-20 form, DS-160 confirmation page, SEVIS fee receipt, and supporting financial documents. The consular officer will ask you several questions about your academic intent and financials. F-1 visa approvals or denials are typically decided on the spot at the end of the interview.

Match with accredited US universities and evaluate eligibility scores using Studplex Admissions Checker.