How to get a United States student visa: fees, funds, documents and timeline
F-1 student visa at a glance
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Visa | F-1 student visa |
| Application fee | US$185 visa fee plus US$350 SEVIS I-901 fee |
| Health cover | University health insurance, budgeted above |
| Funds to show | The full first-year cost printed on your I-20 (tuition plus living), shown in bank statements or loan letters |
| Validity | For the length of study on your I-20 plus 60 days grace |
| Post-study route | Optional Practical Training (OPT): 12 months, plus a 24-month STEM extension for eligible degrees |
How to apply, step by step
- Accept the admission offer and submit financial documents to receive your I-20
- Pay the SEVIS fee and complete the DS-160 online
- Book a visa interview at the US embassy or consulate
- Attend the interview with your documents; decisions are usually given on the day
- Enter the US up to 30 days before the programme start date
Documents checklist
- Form I-20 issued by your university after you accept
- SEVIS fee receipt
- DS-160 confirmation page and interview appointment
- Passport, photo, academic transcripts and test scores
- Proof of funds and, ideally, ties to home
Financial evidence
The full first-year cost printed on your I-20 (tuition plus living), shown in bank statements or loan letters. Education loans from recognised lenders are accepted. Money must be in your name or a parent's with a consent letter, and statements must be recent. Our loan partners issue sanction letters that visa offices recognise.
After you graduate
Optional Practical Training (OPT): 12 months, plus a 24-month STEM extension for eligible degrees. Apply through your university's international office in your final semester. Employers can then sponsor an H-1B visa.
Working on a student visa
20 hours a week on campus during term; off-campus work needs CPT or OPT authorisation. Minimum wages of US$7.25 federal minimum, US$15 to US$17 in many states and campuses.
Figures are indicative for the 2026/27 cycle, change with exchange rates and policy, and should be confirmed with the university or the relevant government before you decide.
Get this checked for your case
Rules change and every application is different. A counsellor confirms the current position for your country and course. Free.
Talk to a counsellorRelated questions
Do I need GRE or GMAT for a US master's?
Fewer programmes require them every year. Many computer science, engineering and business master's are now test-optional. We keep a list of which of our partner programmes still ask.
How much does it really cost to study in the US?
Budget US$35,000 to US$70,000 a year all-in before aid at a private or out-of-state public university. With an assistantship or a strong merit award the real cost can be a third of that. The I-20 figure is the number the visa officer will check.
Can I work while studying in the US?
On campus, yes, up to 20 hours a week. Off campus only through CPT (during the degree) or OPT (after it), both authorised by your university. Unauthorised work risks your visa.