Student Visa for the USA (F-1 Visa)

The F-1 visa is designed for international students who wish to pursue academic studies at accredited US institutions. The F-2 visa is for dependents of F-1 visa holders.

$185

Visa Fee

$350

SEVIS Fee

OPT

Work Permit

Why America Application Process

Overview

The F-1 visa allows international students to study full-time at US colleges, universities, high schools, language training programs, and other academic institutions. F-2 visas are issued to spouses and unmarried children under 21 years of age.

Why Choose America for Study?

America stands as the world's leading destination for international education, offering unparalleled opportunities for academic excellence and personal growth.

Global Academic Hub

Home to the world's top universities like Harvard, MIT, and Stanford.

Vast Cultural Diversity

Hosts over a million international students annually.

Innovation Powerhouse

Strength in scientific research and innovation with massive funding and advanced research opportunities.

Vibrant Campus Life

Bursting with activities, student associations, and cultural events.

Available Programs

English as a Second Language Institutes (ESL)

Diploma, Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctoral degrees

Conditional Admission: University acceptance conditional upon completing a language program

Estimated Costs

Tuition Fees

Starting from USD 10,000 per year at some community colleges
Up to USD 80,000 per year at prestigious private universities (e.g., Medicine, Engineering)
Average: USD 25,000–45,000 per year for most undergraduate programs

Living Expenses

Between USD 1,500–3,000 per month depending on the city
New York and Boston higher, smaller cities lower
Includes housing, food, transportation, and health insurance

Most In-Demand Majors

Information Technology and Computer Science

Business Administration and Finance

Medicine and Engineering

Marketing and Social Sciences

Student Life

Major Student Cities

Boston (University City)
New York (Global Business Center)
California (Innovation and Technology)

Diverse Campus Activities

Student associations, university sports, and cultural/artistic events

Cultural Diversity

Over one million international students create a multinational environment

Work Opportunities During and After Study

During Study

On-Campus Employment

Permitted up to 20 hours per week during the academic semester, and full-time during vacations

CPT (Curricular Practical Training)

A program that allows work or internships directly related to the academic major. Can be on or off-campus but requires university authorization

After Graduation

OPT (Optional Practical Training)

Temporary work authorization for 12 months after graduation

STEM OPT Extension

For STEM students, it can be extended up to 3 years

Transition to Work Visa (H-1B)

A common option for staying and working after OPT concludes

F Visa Categories

F-1 - Academic Student

For students enrolled in academic programs at universities, colleges, high schools, private elementary schools, seminaries, conservatories, or language training programs.

F-2 - Dependent Visa

For spouse and unmarried children under 21 of F-1 visa holders. F-2 visa holders cannot work but may attend school part-time.

Essential Steps for US Student Visa Application (F-1)

Obtain university admission and Form I-20 from a certified educational institution

Pay the SEVIS fee ($350) and register your data in the system

Complete the electronic DS-160 form via the embassy website

Pay the Visa Fee ($185)

Schedule an interview appointment at the US Embassy or Consulate

Attend the interview with all required documents (passport, I-20, financial proof, photos, TOEFL/IELTS results)

Await the visa decision and receive your passport with the visa stamp

Detailed Explanation of Steps

You must first apply to an accredited US university or institute. Upon acceptance, the institution will send you Form I-20, which proves your enrollment and is essential for the visa application.

SEVIS is a database for international students. You pay the fee ($350) online and receive a receipt that must be presented at the interview.

An electronic form on the US Embassy website. After filling it out, print the confirmation page with the barcode.

Paid through a bank or online, according to the embassy's instructions in your country.

Done via the embassy or visa center website. It is advisable to book early due to potential high demand.

The most critical stage, where the Consular Officer assesses your academic intent and financial capability. You must demonstrate that you intend to return to your home country after your studies and have sufficient funding.

If approved, your passport will be stamped with the F-1 visa. You can enter the US up to 30 days before your program start date.

Golden Tips for Success

Prepare clear answers regarding why you chose the US and your major

Highlight your future plans after returning to your home country

Ensure your financial documents show a genuine ability to cover the costs

Be confident and calm during the interview

Required Documents for Submission

Valid passport

Acceptance letter from a certified university/institute (I-20)

Financial proof covering tuition and living expenses

Completed Visa Application Form (DS-160)

Payment receipts for the SEVIS fee ($350) and the Visa Fee ($185)

Passport-compliant personal photos

Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS)

Appointment confirmation for the interview

What Kaya Offers You

Specialized consultations to choose the appropriate university or institute

Professional preparation of your academic and financial file

Follow-up on all application steps until the visa is issued

Additional support for your family in case of F2 visa application

Fulfill your academic dream in the United States with Kaya — let us accompany you step by step from university acceptance to your study seat.

With Kaya: Your Path to America is Easier

We help you choose the right university based on your budget and major

Preparation of a complete, error-free visa file

Support in proving financial capability and drafting the Statement of Intent

Post-arrival follow-up: Registration, housing, and initial job opportunities

With Kaya, every country is a new opportunity for a rich educational and life experience, and we accompany you step-by-step until you reach your dream.

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