Complete application process for USA

A complete guide for an international student applying to the US.

 

Shortlisting universities.

Choosing the correct university is one of the most important parts and decisions in the application process. Universities can be shortlisted based on course, location, eligibility, fees, and scholarship opportunities.

 

Applying for and obtaining the offer letter.

After narrowing down a few universities that fit your needs, you can apply for an offer letter. An offer letter can be applied for via the university’s website or a separate application portal in some cases. An applicant needs to provide one scanned copy of each of the following:

  • Academic Transcripts
  • EPT/ MOI score (IELTS/ PTE/ Duolingo/TOEFL are accepted)
  • A passport valid for at least 1 year.
  • Letter of recommendation (2).
  • Work experience certificate. (Especially applicable in case of a gap)
  • CV
  • SOP (Statement of Purpose). 
  • Bank Balance Certificate and statement

 

It can take anywhere between 2 and 6 weeks to get an official offer from the university, depending on, but not limited to, the timing of the application, level of study, and application flow during the period.

 

Obtaining the I-20.

What is a US I-20?

An I-20 is an official government document provided by the university’s International Student Office. Its main purpose is to prove that the applicant is eligible to attend the visa interview (F-1, M-1). The I-20 includes information such as SEVIS ID, program start and end dates, and financial proof.

I-20 is obtained after the student provides financial proof to the university after receiving the offer letter.

 

Paying the SEVIS Fee and filling out the DS-160 form.

 

DS-160 form & CGI payment.

The DS-160 form is the official visa form that applicants need to fill out to attend the visa interview. It can be filled out via the CEAC Website.

Applicants are also required to pay the CGI Payment fee of $185 after filling out the DS-160 form.

 

What is SEVIS?

Student and Exchange Visitor Information System, commonly known by the acronym SEVIS, is a web-based, secured database management system managed by DHS (Department of Homeland Security). Its function is to monitor real-time data on international students and exchange visitors. (source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement).

 

Paying the SEVIS fee.

All applicants are required to pay a mandatory SEVIS Fee to attend the visa interview. The current amount students are required to pay is $350. SEVIS fee can be paid online through the US government SEVIS website or through a bank.

 

Attending the interview.

This is perhaps the most crucial part of the application. This is where an applicant's genuineness, the financial capability of the sponsor, intention to study, and return after the course is completed, along with the applicant's knowledge about the US education system, lifestyle, and research, are also tested.

For further information regarding the visa interview and preparation classes, contact us at Noble International Consultancy.

 

Obtaining the visa.

After clearing their visa interview, the applicant will receive an official visa stamped on their passport in about 3-5 days.

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