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Do students need any special documents?

In addition to the document identified for all non-immigrant visa applicants, prospective students must present a Form I-20A-B "Certificate of Eligibility for Non-immigrant (F-1) Student Status for Academic and Language Students," properly completed and signed by the prospective student and the designated school official. Vocational students must present a Form I-20M-N "Certificate of Eligibility for Non-immigrant (M-1) Student Status - For Vocational Students, "properly completed and signed by the prospective student and the designated school official.

Prospective students must also present documentary evidence that sufficient funds are, or will be, available from a specifically identified and reliable financial source to defray all living and school expenses during the entire period of anticipated study in the U.S. Specifically, the applicant must present credible evidence of enough readily available funds to meet all the expenses for the first year of study and that, barring unforeseen circumstances, adequate funds will be available for each subsequent year of study. M-1 student visa applicant must present evidence that sufficient funds are immediately available to pay all tuition and living costs for the entire period of intended study.

Student visa applicants must use the Drop Box with the following documentation:

• Original I-20 from the university.
• Original TOEFL, scores and SAT/GMAT scores (whichever is applicable).
• Proof of funds. Preferred documentation includes 6 months of bank records, bank passbooks, and/or chartered accounts statements.

Do I have to pay the first year tuition fees in advance?

No - paying the tuition expenses in advance is one of several ways to show proof of funds, but it is not a requirement to pay in advance.

What if the university will not accept the tuition fess in advance?

It is the university's decision to accept or not accept the fees in advance. The Consulate has no influence over universities' policies regarding this. Students should consult with prospective universities regarding their policies well in advance of applying for a student visa.

What documents should I show to prove that I could pay for my education?

There are no specific documents that prove a student is able to pay for his/her education. Bank account statements, chartered accountant statements, employment letters, and property documents are the most common documents used to show proof of funds.

What if my university does not require TOEFL or GRE?

Students whose prospective university does not require that they take the TOEFL or GRE should provide a letter from the university stating the same. However, the Consulate recommends that all the student visa applicants provide standardized test scores.

Is it required that I apply by Drop Box?

Yes - all student visa applicants must apply through the drop box. Please be aware that after reviewing your case a Consular Officer may require a personal interview before a final decision is made.

How do I prove that I can afford to attend school in the United States?

Part 7 on the I-20 shows the amount of funding you must have available to cover the first year's expenses. The total amount includes tuition and fees, living expenses, expenses of dependents (if applicable), and other expenses (as applicable). You must prove that you have immediate funds available to cover this amount. If you are going to a two-years Master's program, then you must also show that the funds are or will likely be available to cover the same amount for the second year.

What if I have not yet received my degree certificate?

Yes - you may still apply, but please be sure to include your mark sheets and provisional certificate if available.

What if I have taken a loan from a bank to cover my tuition fees?

You must prove that funds are immediately available to cover the first year's costs, and show evidence that funds will be available for all subsequent years. Any financial documentation you provide should be in support of this. This applies to all the student visa applicants.

How soon after getting my I-20 may I apply for the visa?

You may apply for the visa no earlier than 90 days before the first day of school as indicated on the I-20.

What if I have received a full tuition waive from my prospective university?

You must prove that funds are immediately available to cover the first year's costs, and show evidence that funds will be available for all subsequent years. Any financial documentation you provide should be in support of this. This applies to all the student visa applicants.

Courtesy: The United States Educational Foundation in India

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