1. Student Visas
US Dept. of State Bureau of Consular Affairs
December 14, 2010 -- 1130 am – 1230 pm
Q: if I am in the U.S. with a visitor's visa, can I take a class of painting for 2hours per week?
A: Yes, you could take a class that is incidental to your visit and less than 18 hours per week
while in the U.S. with a B/tourist.
Q: How should you prepare for Visa interview and what documents you should take along? Are
there any special dress code / other things (Recommended)?
A: There are certain required document including the I-20 or DS-2019 and proof of your ability
to pay for the first year. In addition to this, the law requires that you prove that you have a
residence abroad which you have no intention of abandoning, so anything you have that would
show your ties/residence abroad would be beneficial.
Q: i want to do PhD in winter 2011 session on scholarship basis
A: You need only apply for an F-1 student visa in order to pursue a PhD in the United States.
Q: I'm married, and I have 2 children, and I want travel with them for my graduate studies, they
must apply like students?
A: Immediate family members (spouse and children) can get derivative student visas. You
would get F1, they would get F2. You should talk to your school since they will issue I-20s for
your derivatives
Q: i haven't applied to any university in US until now but i have plans to get admission in future
in some university in US, Can i get a visa if yes then how can i get student visa.
A: Full-time academic study in the United States will require an F-1 student visa. F-1 applicants
are required to provide/prove the following: 1) permanent ties to your home country, including a
residence/life you will be returning to at the completion of your studies, 2) acceptance to a U.S.
academic institution (indicated by a valid I-20 form from the school), 3) sufficient knowledge of
English to pursue the intended course of study, and 4) sufficient funds to cover your first year of
study in full, as well as access to additional funds to cover all subsequent years. For information
on nonimmigrant visa application/appointment procedures, visit www.usembassy.gov/ to access
the website of the U.S. Embassy/Consulate in your home country. Also, information regarding
SEVIS (Student & Exchange Visitor Information System) registration (required of all F-1 visa
holders), can be found at www.fmjfee.com.
2. Q: Are international college students allowed to work in the USA?
A: current immigration regulations allow international students to work up to 20 hours per week
part time. On average, they earn about $2000 per year to help with personal expenses. Also,
Optional Practice Training (OPT) is available to full time degree seeking students for up to 12
months, and up to 29 months for STEM students
Q: do previous visa attempts and reasons for rejection considered?
A: Every visa application is reviewed on its own merits. However, a consular officer may look
at previous visa applications to see if there is information that would be relevant to the current
application.
Q: Do Visa Consular deny visa for a low GPA of 2.7 if i am applying for a community college
and got accepted?
A: No, they don't deny strictly based on GPA. However, the consular officer may ask you about
a low GPA and its reasons as this relates to you being a legitimate student.
Q: hello, what is the average visa processing time and does it vary from country to country?
A: Most visas are issued in a few days after the interview. It will typically depend on the
situation and if you have all of the required documents.
Q: what are the requirements of the F-1 student visa?
A: Requirements for a student visa include 1) proof of ties abroad/residence to which you will
return after your studies 2) I-20 form 3) sufficient knowledge of English to pursue studies and 4)
sufficient funds to cover first year of study
Q: how much bank statement is required for 1 & half year MS program in Computer Science?
Also tell me duration period of bank statement..?
A: U.S. immigration law stipulates that F-1 student visa applicants prove the possession of
sufficient funds to cover their first year of studies and living expenses in full (funds must be
readily available), and possess additional funds to cover all subsequent years. Whatever official
financial documentation you want to provide it prove you meets this requirement is at your
discretion.
Q: how much student visa fee is?
A: The fee for applying for the visa is $140. However, you all need to pay the SEVIS processing
fee and any reciprocity fees that may apply to your country.
Q: what is i20?
3. A: The I-20 is a Student Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) document issued by
your US school or program. It will be required when applying for a student visa (F & M types)
and when you enter the US on a student visa
Q: if you are going for Master’s Degree, Then what special things you suggest for the Visa
Interview/Process (Which are in addition to Undergraduate) ?
A: There are no additional requirements. Sometimes, grad students get assistantships that will
cover their expenses directly from the school so people bring documents related to this.
Q: what are the conditions/requirements of the financial documents to prove the availability of
funds?
A: In most cases, applicants provide bank statements.
Q: will I be given visa for a 8 weeks program?
A: You can be issues a short-term visa. It depends on the information provided in your I-20
Q: How can i change my status with DHS, what's DHS meaning?
A: DHS means Department of Homeland Security. If you are already in the U.S. with another
type of visa (not Visa Waiver Program), you may be able to change status to that of a student
without having to leave the U.S.
Q: i wanted to go and study music production with http://recordingworkshop.com only to be told
that US embassies hardly gives visa to Nigerians for this program. Any explanation?
A: To pursue any type of full-time nonacademic or vocational study in the United States will
require an M-1 student visa. M-1 requirements can be found on our website at
www.travel.state.gov/. Where an applicant is from would not make a difference.
Q: tell me about the total 1 year residence cost and also tell me about the bank statement how
much require for 2 year ms
A: The cost is provided by the university and consular officers look at the I-20 which lists
it. Each program varies in cost and school
Q:If I get admitted in Ph.D. - as it is fully funded- would I have to provide my bank or financial
statements as well?
A: No. Many times the I-20 will note the assistantship. If it doesn't, you would need to provide
proof of this.
4. Q: If the 4 points(I-20 , Funds, Local Residence ........) are 100% OK, and still for example your
Visa is rejected, THEN WHAT ARE THE FACTORS WHICH MAY HAVE CAUSED SUCH
A: Sometimes visas are refused because of the residence abroad requirement. Some people are
unable to convince the consular officer that they will leave the U.S. that they will leave after
finishing their studies. This is a requirement based on U.S. law
Q: what are steps to get a student visa
A: first receive an I-20 form for the F & M visa or a DS-2019 for the J visa. Next, pay the
SEVIS fee either electronically by credit card at www.FMJfee.com. You may also pay by postal
mail. You will then need to apply for a visa and schedule an interview with a visa consular. It is
important to being this process early in order to ensure you will get your visa. You will need get
a visa early enough to begin your studies in the US. Students can now apply for any of these visa
types up to 120 days before their studies begin Please consult the U.S. Embassy or Consulate
nearest you to find what application fees, if any, you will need to pay, what documents you will
be required to bring, and out how long it may take to get an appointment for an interview with a
visa consular officer.
Q:how old do the bank statements have to be and can they be of more than 1 person?
A: The bank statements should be recent. They can be from someone else (parent, family
member)l however, the I-20 usually says who will be paying for the studies so the information
on finances should come from this source
Q: What happens if you do a job of above 20 hrs. / Week on student visa in USA?
A: If the DSO (Designated School Official) at your school has approved you for off-campus
employment, you may work above 20 hrs. Per week during official student breaks and holidays
only.
Q: Hello! I've been admitted to the MS in the New School and am suitable for 4 requirements to
be issued with F1 visa. Except that factor of ENOUGH PROOF of the ties with my own country
(Russia) which is nowhere DEFINED and OBSCURE, I feel confident. But i am not married and
do not leave children in Russia. Is this a reason to be not qualified as having not enough ties with
Motherland ?
A: What I tend to tell people is to put yourself in the shows of the consular officer, what would
convince you that someone was returning - this can be a number of things - social, cultural,
family ties, it could be related to your career plans after college or obligations that you have.
Q: I just want to thank you for your wide information sources on the web and your online efforts!
A: You're welcome. We're glad you (and we hope many others) find them useful
5. Q:..I want knew about for applying for master’s program in computer science ..So which visa i
need to apply for is it J or F?
A: Unless you are specifically going to participate in a U.S. exchange program as a "student"
(which would require a J-1 exchange visitor visa), an F-1 student visa would be appropriate for
this purpose.
Q: i want to go for ms in system engineering....my whole education is in English so university
say ok you don’t need toefl but why i need toefl for embassy interview
A: You don't need TOEFL for the Embassy interview (it's usually a part of the admissions
process). During the interview, the consular officer may speak with you in English to ascertain
your proficiency and that you have the necessary level to undertake your studies
Q: hi i am from Islamabad....tell me what are the requirements to get the vocational visa....is
there it required
A: For the visa issuance process, the GRE is not required. However, it may be for admission to
your school. For the visa, the requirements are the same as for the F (student) visa, the only
additional requirement is that you have to prove that you have funding to cover all of your
education (not just the first year).
Q:i want knew about for applying for master’s program in computer science ..so which visa i
need to apply for is it J or F?
A: The usual visa for students of academic programs is F.
Q: i receive inscription from ELS center of Honolulu.my class will begin on 07 march 2011.i
want to know if i ash the interview in January it's not late?
A: You can apply in January. However, you will only be able to travel to the U.S. 30 days or
less before the date noted on your I-20.
Q: this information which you are providing is just for 2011 or 2012 also ?
A: All information provided is up-to-date and specific to the processing of nonimmigrant visa
applications at the present.
Q: I applied for Diversity lottery 2012 this year, and I wish to study in the USA for master's
degree. But some of my friends say that people who applied for Green Card cannot take student
visa. Is this true?
A: There is nothing that prohibits someone who applied for the DV visa to apply for a student
visa. However, you still need to be able to convince the consular officer of your intent to depart
the U.S. after the conclusion of your studies
Q: Will i have both the visa or they would cancel the tourist visa?
6. A: normally, they don't cancel the tourist visa
Q:What are expenses to get a US visa in Pakistan
A: The worldwide nonimmigrant visa application fee is $140. A SEVIS (Student & Exchange
Visitor Information System) fee is also required (www.fmjfee.com). Also, depending on the
country in which you apply, a reciprocity feel may also be applicable.
Q: what is the difference in J and F Visa?
A: The most common visa type for international students is the F visa type. It allows them to
enter the US and remain full time at colleges and universities or English as a Second Language
programs in the United States. The J visa type is a nonimmigrant exchange visa applying to one
of 15 specific exchange categories, ranging from internships to doctors and professors
Q: For how many years a student visa is issued?
A: A visa is issued for the period listed in the I-20, unless there are reciprocity limits for your
particular country
Q: I am an international student but my visa has expired. Is there any way to renew my visa
while still in U.S?
A: No, visas are not issued in the U.S. DHS admits students for duration of status, so as long as
you're a student and don't leave the U.S. you don't need a new visa. However, if you depart the
U.S, you will need to apply for a new visa
Q: I am married so is it possible that my wife and me can apply together for F-1 visa?
A: If she's doing her own studies, she can apply for an F-1 and needs to meet those
requirements. If she's not studying, and will accompany you, she would need to apply for an F2
visa.
Q: Thank you. my major concern is that my funding for the following years is renewable to some
sponsors not all on the grounds of satisfactory academic performance will that be a hindrance
concerning future funding for my other academic years?
A: No. Ultimately, it is the prospective student who must maintain his/her sponsorship (in
accordance with what the sponsor requires) in this regard.
Q: What is the time the F visa is processing = the time after the date of interview and visa
approval by a consulate officer ?
A: It varies. It's usually only a few days; however, it may be that the consular officer needs to
verify something on your application, and in this case it will take longer
7. Q: can i apply 10 month advance student visa
A: You may apply up to 120 days prior to the date your studies begin. You will first need an I
20 document issued by the school or program in the US before you can apply.
Q: CAN WE COME BACK IN HOLIDAYS and GO BACK TO US? (provided that F-1 Visa is
active)
A: Yes, as long as your visa is valid and it is for multiple entries, you can travel outside the U.S.
and return. You should also make sure to have your I-20 with you.
Q: what is the shortest period that can be given on an m Visa?
A: This would be based solely on the U.S. consular officer's judgment when adjudicating the
application and accessing all pertinent information.
Q: CAN we provide a bank statement of 2 or more PERSONS (off course both Relatives etc. )?
A: Yes.
Q: So do i have to go to my country of origin to renew my student visa?
A: For many people, it is easier to prove their ties abroad when they apply in their home country
since officers are more familiar with local conditions. However, if this is not possible, you can
apply elsewhere, but need the convince the officer there of your ties abroad.
Q: Does being a Shareholder in two businesses in my homeland prove as enough evidence and
intent to come back?
A: When evaluating immigrant intent, consular officers look for solid reasons that indicate the
applicant will be returning abroad after his/her visit. In doing this, they take into consideration
the totality of an applicant’s situation, including, but not limited to, profession, property
ownership, socio-economic status, as well as family and community ties possessed.
Q: How convince the consular officer that i will leave the U.S. after finishing my studies? What
documents are required for this?
A: When evaluating immigrant intent, consular officers look for solid reasons that indicate the
applicant will be returning abroad after his/her visit. In doing this, they take into consideration
the totality of an applicant’s situation, including, but not limited to, profession, property
ownership, socio-economic status, as well as family and community ties possessed.
Q: Is the F1 US visa provide an international student with Access to other US states (Hawaii...)
??
8. A: Yes, while in the U.S. with a student visa, you could travel to other U.S. states
Q: What are important things to consider for Visa if I get admitted in Ph.D.
A: F-1 applicants are required to provide/prove the following: 1) permanent ties to your home
country, including a residence/life you will be returning to at the completion of your studies, 2)
acceptance to a U.S. academic institution (indicated by a valid I-20 form from the school), 3)
sufficient knowledge of English to pursue the intended course of study, and 4) sufficient funds to
cover your first year of study in full, as well as access to additional funds to cover all subsequent
years.
Q: as an international student, nobody in my family has ever traveled to the USA not to talk of
settling down there and i want to go a college. Who will sign my residential form for me because
it's part of your requirements?
A: I don't know what you mean by residential form. The Department of State does not require
this as part of your visa application, so this may be something that your school is requesting as
part of the admissions process.
Q: can anyone tell what are the steps to get a student visa for US in Pakistan
A: F-1 student visa applicants are required to provide/prove the following: 1) permanent ties to
your home country, including a residence/life you will be returning to at the completion of your
studies, 2) acceptance to a U.S. academic institution (indicated by a valid I-20 form from the
school), 3) sufficient knowledge of English to pursue the intended course of study, and 4)
sufficient funds to cover your first year of study in full, as well as access to additional funds to
cover all subsequent years. For information on nonimmigrant visa application/appointment
procedures, visit www.usembassy.gov/ to access the website of the U.S. Embassy/Consulate in
Pakistan. Also, information regarding SEVIS (Student & Exchange Visitor Information
System) registration (required of all F-1 visa holders), can be found at www.fmjfee.com.
Q: my i-20 says length of study is 36 months is it problem??
A: No, sometimes schools list length of studies in this way
Q: i have relatives residing in the U.S am i still eligible for applying U.S study visa?
A: Having relatives in the U.S. does not stop you from being able to get a visa. During your
interview, the consular officer may ask you questions about them, but this may be related to a
number of factors including why you wanted to study in the U.S. or your intent to depart the U.S.
after your studies end.
Q: Would you please tell me the difference between i20 and j20 Visa
A: I-20 is the document you will need from the US school or program. J Visa is the type of visa
9. you may be issued.
Q: is age matter for student visa ?
A: Not necessarily. As long as you have been admitted to a school and have an I-20, you can
apply for a visa. however, you will then have to explain your reasons for wanting to study in the
U.S., and these may be different depending on your age
Q: how much student visa fee is?
A: http://www.ice.gov/sevis/i901/faq3.htm#_Toc81222012 lists the SEVIS costs. Check with
your local US embassy or consulate about any additional application fees they may require.
Q: I have no money to pay for US education and I would apply for scholarship. If I get partial
tuition waiver, would I need to submit those proof of having sufficient funds to cover first year
of study?
A: Yes, you would need to provide proof of scholarships or stipends to show how your first year
expenses will be covered. many times, the schools will also list this information on the I-20.
Q: My fiancé graduated from a school of nursing here in Nigeria and she desire to the US for her
BSc degree. Will she be allowed?
A: As the relevance of these two courses of study may be addressed, anyone may apply for a F-1
student visa if (after accessing their situation seriously) they feel they may qualify.
Q: if assumingly one has been rejected the F visa to enter graduate education in the US -- what
is the TIME after one can submit the next visa application ? and is it reasonable if being rejected
once --apply once again when the semester starts in 1 month ?
A: You have to look at the reason for the refusal. You can reapply any time, but you need to
present evidence that will show that the refusal would no longer apply.
Q: my son is attending the high school in USA, he is living at a grandma's home, he's in USA
until the 16th of august 2010; his tourist visa is valid till July 2011, he plans to finish the studies
and to leave USA on 14th of May 2011; what's necessary to do to legalize his temporary visit in
Florida? the school doesn´t dispose the form I-20 but they confirmed the proclamation about his
attending of the school, thank you for the replay,
A: Full-time academic study in the United States will require an F-1 student visa. F-1 applicants
are required to provide/prove the following: 1) permanent ties to your home country, including a
residence/life you will be returning to at the completion of your studies, 2) acceptance to a U.S.
academic institution (indicated by a valid I-20 form from the school), 3) sufficient knowledge of
English to pursue the intended course of study, and 4) sufficient funds to cover your first year of
study in full, as well as access to additional funds to cover all subsequent years. For information
on nonimmigrant visa application/appointment procedures, please visit www.usembassy.gov/ to
10. access the website of the U.S. Embassy in Prague. Also, information regarding SEVIS (Student
& Exchange Visitor Information System) registration (required of all F-1 visa holders), can be
found at www.fmjfee.com.
