USA Student Visa Process: Step-by-Step Guide

A complete roadmap from university admission to traveling to the U.S.

Before the Visa Process

Step 1: Required Documents for University Admission & I-20 Issuance

To apply to a U.S. university and receive your I-20 (Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status), prepare the following documents:

1. Academic Documents

   • SEE / +2 to the most recent academic level

   • Mark Sheets, Character Certificates, Provisional Certificates, Migration, and Transcripts

2. English Proficiency Test:

   • IELTS / TOEFL / PTE / Duolingo / MOI / SAT / GRE / GMAT

3. Passport (valid)

4. Recommendation Letters

   • From 2–3 academic or professional references

5. Bank Certificate

   • Showing available funds of NPR 50–60 Lakhs or equivalent in USD

6. University Application Fee

   • Typically $10–$20

7. Initial Deposit for I-20 Issuance

   • Between $100–$500 (depending on the university)

8. Statement of Purpose (SOP)

   • A well-written essay outlining your academic and career goals

9. Resume/Curriculum Vitae (CV)

Step 2: Receive the I-20 (Processing Time: 2–4 Weeks)

Once accepted, the university will send your I-20. After receiving it:

1. Fill DS-160 Form (Online U.S. Visa Application)

2. Book a U.S. Embassy Interview Appointment

   • Visa application fee: USD 185

3. Pay SEVIS Fee

   • USD 350 (mandatory for F1 visa applicants)

Visa Interview Preparation

Step 3: Prepare for the Interview

• Research about your chosen university, program, and city

• Attend Mock Interviews to build confidence

• Review your academic profile, SOP, and financial documents

Step 4: Visa Interview – Required Documents

Bring the following documents to your U.S. Embassy interview:

1. A recent 2x2-inch passport-sized photo

2. Valid Passport

3. Signed I-20 Form

4. Academic Documents

   • Transcripts and certificates (SEE/10 to latest)

5. English Proficiency Test Score (IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, Duolingo, etc.)

6. DS-160 Confirmation Page

7. Visa Interview Appointment Confirmation

8. SEVIS Fee Payment Confirmation

9. Gap Certificate (if applicable)

After the Visa Process

Step 5: Visa Collection

• Collect your Passport with the U.S. Visa from the designated location

Step 6: No Objection Certificate (NOC)

1. Apply online: noc.moest.gov.np

2. Pay the fee: NPR 2000

3. Collect the NOC and verify your details carefully

Step 7: Obtain Police Report

• Visit your local police office to get a Police Clearance Certificate

Step 8: Vaccination

• Get all required vaccinations as per university/CDC guidelines

Step 9: Pay the Tuition Fee

• Payment Methods: Bank Draft or Bank Transfer

Step 10: Arrange Housing

• Book on-campus or off-campus accommodation as advised by your university

Step 11: Course Registration

• Register for your courses online using your student portal or university system

Step 12: Book Your Flight

• Book your air ticket based on the university’s recommended arrival dates

• Check airport pick-up services if available

Step 13: Shopping & Currency Exchange

• Buy essentials for travel

• Exchange local currency for USD

Step 14: Travel to the USA

• Keep all original documents in your hand luggage

• Arrive at least a few days before orientation starts

• Be ready for U.S. Customs and Border Protection questions upon arrival