FAQ: All your US Student Visa questions answered

Generally, an F-1 visa will be required for an Interational student to be able to study in the U.S.

The F-1 U.S. visa is for an academic student, allowing the visa holder to enter the United States of America as a full-time student at either –

• A university,
• An accredited college,
• A seminary,
• A conservatory,
• An academic high school,
• An elementary school,
• Other academic institution, or
• A language training program.

For an F-1 visa, the international student must be enrolled in a course of study or program that leads to a degree, diploma or certificate.

Additionally, the education institution must have been specifically authorized by the U.S. government for accepting international students.

The M-1 U.S. visa, on the other hand, is for a vocational student and is for those in a vocational or other non-academic program [that is, other than language training that comes under the F-1].

In view of the evolving situation concerning the COVID-19 pandemic, there is currently much apprehension in the minds of Indian students that intend travelling to the U.S. for study abroad purposes for the academic year 2021-22.

Will India travel restrictions affect me?

The recently-announced India travel ban by the U.S. has been in effect from May 4, 2021, and will be effective until terminated by the U.S. President.

However, certain individuals, including students, academics, and journalists are exempt from the travel ban.

Do I have to be vaccinated against COVID-19 to enter the U.S.?

No, you don’t have to be vaccinated against COVID-19 to be able to enter the U.S.

Nevertheless, all airline passengers entering the U.S. territory will be required to present a negative COVID-19 test that had been taken within 72 hours of departure.

The negative COVID-19 test results will have to be confirmed by the airlines prior to boarding the flight.

Keep in mind that the coronavirus test requirement is separate from that of the U.S. student visa application process.

When can I apply for my U.S. student visa?

As per the public announcements by the U.S. Embassy and its Consulates in India, certain visa and related services have been suspended until further notice.

Under normal circumstances, an F-1 student applicant is encouraged to apply for their U.S. student visa as soon as their Form I-20 as well as confirmation of admission is received from the university.

A student visa for the U.S., allowing travel to the country, might be issued no earlier than 120 days before the date specifically mentioned on their Form I-20.

My course in U.S. starts in September 2021. But my visa interview is for January 2022. What do I do?

Ideally, one must book a visa appointment whenever available. An expedited appointment can be requested for whenever consular services are available.

Student visa applications are to be prioritized.

 Can I get a U.S. study visa for the 2021-2022 academic year?

The decision on granting an F-1 visa is the prerogative of the U.S. Department of State [DOS] through the medium of its various embassies and consulates.

The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement [ICE], under the Student and Exchange Visitor Program [SEVP], has announced that the original guidance issued in March 2020 shall be continued.

If you are looking to Study, Work, Visit, Invest or Migrate to the USA, talk to Y-Axis, the World’s No.1 Immigration & Visa Company.

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