Study in United States

Overview

EducationUSA, run by the US Department of State, sets out five steps: research your options, finance your studies, complete your application, apply for your student visa and prepare for departure.

A visitor visa does not allow study toward a US degree or certificate, so plan for the student visa from the start.

Admission steps

1. Research your options and find schools that fit your goals.
2. Plan how you will finance your studies and look at financial aid options.
3. Complete each school's application. Documents and tests vary by school and programme.
4. Get accepted by a SEVP-approved school and receive your Form I-20.
5. Apply for your F-1 visa and prepare for departure.

Documents you usually need

• Transcripts and certificates
• Test scores where the school asks (language tests and others vary by school)
• Essays or statement of purpose
• Recommendation letters
• Financial documents showing how you will pay

F-1 student visa

1. Get accepted by a SEVP-approved school. The school registers you in SEVIS and you pay the SEVIS I-901 fee.
2. Receive your Form I-20 from the school.
3. Complete the online DS-160 and upload your photo. Print the confirmation page.
4. Pay the visa fee where required and book your interview at the US Embassy or Consulate.
5. Attend the interview with your passport, DS-160 confirmation, I-20 and any requested academic or financial documents.
6. Fingerprints are usually taken at the interview. An issuance fee may apply after approval, depending on nationality.

Documents

• Passport valid at least six months beyond your stay, unless exempt
• DS-160 confirmation page
• Form I-20
• Visa fee receipt, if required
• Academic and financial documents as requested

Funding and scholarships

• Financial aid and scholarship search: EducationUSA 'Find Financial Aid'.
• Each school's own scholarships and assistantships: see the school's financial aid page.

All scholarships