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Preparing and Applying for a United States Long-Term Study Visa

Updated: Sep 18, 2023


Preparing and Applying for a United States Long-Term Study Visa



If you're planning to study in the United States for a period of more than three months, you'll need to apply for a long-term study visa. Before you apply, it's important to gather all the necessary documents to ensure a smooth application process. Here's what you need to know to prepare and apply for a United States long-term study visa:


Choose a School and Program


Before you can apply for a United States long-term study visa, you must first be accepted

into a program of study at a Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-approved school in the United States. You'll need to provide evidence of your acceptance, such as a letter of admission from the school, when you apply for your visa.


Pay the SEVIS Fee


The SEVIS fee is a mandatory fee that all international students must pay before applying for a United States long-term study visa. The fee is used to cover the costs of the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS), which tracks and monitors international students in the United States. You can pay the fee online through the SEVIS website.


Complete the DS-160 Form


The DS-160 is an online form that you'll need to complete before applying for your United States long-term study visa. The form asks for personal and contact information, as well as details about your travel plans and the purpose of your visit to the United States. Once you've completed the form, you'll receive a confirmation page that you'll need to bring to your visa interview.


Schedule a Visa Interview


You'll need to schedule a visa interview at the United States embassy or consulate in your home country. During the interview, a consular officer will review your application and ask you questions about your program of study, financial situation, and ties to your home country. You'll need to bring your passport, DS-160 confirmation page, SEVIS fee receipt, and any other supporting documents to the interview.


Prepare Supporting Documents


In addition to the documents mentioned above, you'll also need to provide supporting documents to prove your eligibility for a United States long-term study visa. These may include:

  • Proof of financial support: You'll need to provide evidence that you can support yourself financially during your studies in the United States. This can be in the form of bank statements, proof of scholarships or grants, or a letter from a sponsor.

  • Academic transcripts and diplomas: You may need to provide academic transcripts and diplomas to show that you meet the academic requirements of your program of study.

  • English language proficiency: You may need to provide proof of your English language proficiency, such as a TOEFL or IELTS score.

  • Other supporting documents: Depending on your situation, you may need to provide additional documents, such as a letter of recommendation or a statement of purpose.


In conclusion, preparing and applying for a United States long-term study visa can be a complex process, but it's essential to ensure that you have all the necessary documents and information to increase your chances of a successful application. Remember to start early, pay attention to the requirements, and be prepared for the visa interview. Good luck with your application!

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