USA Student Visa Document Requirements Checklist

Different universities have different admission policies. Your university will inform you what they need from you in order to determine that you are academically eligible. Amongst other requirements, you will need to show the school that you have enough money to support yourself while studying without having to work. You may also have to show health insurance in order to cover any medical expenses should you need any medical assistance. Always protect yourself by keeping a copy of everything that you fill out and send off.

Once the university has determined that your application is complete and that you are academically eligible, they will issue an I-20 form to enable you to apply for your student visa.

Applicants for student visas should generally apply at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate with jurisdiction over their place of permanent residence. [This will normally be your home country in which you live. 

] Although visa applicants may apply at any U.S. consular office abroad, it may be more difficult to qualify for the visa outside the country of permanent residence.

When applying at the consulate for your student visa:

1. You will have to pay a non-refundable application fee. This means that if your visa does not get approved, you will not get your money back.
2. An application Form DS-156, completed and signed. These forms are free at all U.S. consular offices.
3. A DS-157 form for all males aged 16-45.
4. A passport valid for travel to the United States and with a validity date at least six months beyond your intended period of stay in the United States. If more than one person is included in the passport, each person desiring a visa must make an application.
5. One photograph 1 and 1/2 inches square (37x37mm) for each applicant, showing full face, without head covering, against a light background.
6. For the "F" applicant, a Form I-20A-B. For the "M" applicant, a Form I-20M-N.
7. You will need to show that you have enough money to support yourself.