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How to Apply for an F-1 Student Visa: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide for Future Students

  • Feb 16
  • 3 min read

Planning to study in the United States? If you are an international student enrolling in an English language school, college, or university, you will need an F-1 student visa.

In this comprehensive guide, you’ll find a clear, up-to-date step-by-step explanation of the F-1 visa process, required documents, timelines, and practical tips to increase your chances of approval.

If you are considering studying English in New York, Lingua Prime Brooklyn supports international students at every stage - from enrollment to receiving the Form I-20 and preparing for the visa interview.

What Is an F-1 Visa?

The F-1 visa is a non-immigrant student visa that allows international students to study at accredited educational institutions in the United States.

It is required for:

  • English language programs (ESL)

  • Academic programs

  • Colleges and universities

Preparatory programs

Important: The school must be SEVP-certified and authorized to issue Form I-20.

Step-by-Step Process to Obtain an F-1 Visa

Step 1. Choose a School and Get Accepted

The first step is applying and being accepted to a certified institution. Typically, you will need:

  • A copy of your passport

  • A completed application form

  • Proof of financial support

  • Payment of a registration fee

Once accepted, the school will issue Form I-20, the primary document required to apply for an F-1 visa.

Lingua Prime Brooklyn issues Form I-20 for international students and assists with preparing proper financial documentation.

Step 2. Receive Form I-20

Form I-20 confirms:

  • Your official acceptance

  • The cost of your program

  • The length of your studies

  • Proof of sufficient financial resources

You cannot begin the visa application process without this document.

Step 3. Pay the SEVIS Fee (I-901)

After receiving your I-20, you must pay the SEVIS I-901 fee. SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) tracks international students during their stay in the U.S.

Important reminders:

  • Use the SEVIS ID number from your I-20

  • Save your payment confirmation

  • Pay before scheduling your visa interview

Step 4. Complete Form DS-160

The DS-160 is the online non-immigrant visa application form.

You will need:

  • Your passport

  • A properly formatted photo

  • Information from your I-20

  • Travel history (if applicable)

After submission, print the confirmation page for your interview.

Step 5. Pay the Visa Fee and Schedule Your Interview

After paying the visa application fee, you can schedule your interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate in your country.

Bring the following documents to your interview:

  • Passport

  • Form I-20

  • SEVIS payment receipt

  • DS-160 confirmation page

  • Financial documents

  • Acceptance letter

What Questions Are Asked During the Interview?

The consular officer’s goal is to confirm that you genuinely intend to study and comply with visa regulations.

Common questions include:

  • Why did you choose this school?

  • Who is financing your education?

  • What are your plans after completing your studies?

  • Why do you want to study in the United States?

You should clearly explain your academic goals and demonstrate strong ties to your home country.

How Long Does the Process Take?

On average, the process takes 4 to 8 weeks:

  • 1–3 weeks to receive Form I-20

  • 1–4 weeks to schedule and attend the interview

  • 3–10 business days to receive your passport after approval

It is recommended to start the process at least 2–3 months before your program begins.

Common Reasons for Visa Denial

To reduce the risk of denial, be aware of common issues:

  • Insufficient financial documentation

  • Weak ties to your home country

  • Unclear study objectives

  • Incomplete or inaccurate paperwork

Proper preparation for the interview is critical.

Why Choosing the Right School Matters

Your school plays a significant role not only in the quality of education but also in maintaining your legal student status in the U.S.

By choosing Lingua Prime Brooklyn, students receive:

  • Official issuance of Form I-20

  • F-1 visa guidance and консультации

  • Assistance with document preparation

  • Academic support after arrival

For many international students, having institutional guidance throughout the visa process significantly improves their chances of approval.

Quick F-1 Visa Checklist

  1. Get accepted to a certified school

  2. Receive Form I-20

  3. Pay the SEVIS fee

  4. Complete Form DS-160

  5. Attend your visa interview

  6. Receive your visa and begin your studies

Final Thoughts

Applying for an F-1 student visa is a structured process that requires attention to detail and early preparation. With the right documentation and a certified school, your chances of approval are significantly higher.

If you are planning to study English in New York, Lingua Prime Brooklyn can guide you through every step - from enrollment to successfully obtaining your F-1 visa.

Start early, prepare carefully, and take the first step toward your educational journey in the United States.


 
 
 

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