Student Visa Requirements in the USA

Applying for visas can sometimes seem complex, but IDP Malaysia's experienced counsellors are here to simplify the process and guide you through each step. We'll help you understand how to apply for an F-1 student visa to the USA, breaking down the key requirements and offering helpful tips to make the application process as smooth as possible. 

What is an F-1 visa (USA student visa)? 

The F-1 visa, also known as the USA student visa, is the primary visa that allows international students to study in the USA. It enables individuals to enter the United States as full-time students at accredited colleges, universities, or other academic institutions.  

To be eligible, you must be enrolled in a programme or course of study that leads to a degree, diploma, or certificate, and the school must be authorised by the U.S. government to accept international students. The F-1 visa also allows for certain types of part-time on-campus employment. 

In addition to the F-1 visa, there are several other visa types in the U.S. that students and/or their families may be eligible for: 

All information adapted from the U.S. Department of State Bureau of Consular Affairs (as of 23 April 2025). Do check the U.S. Department of State website for the latest updates 

To be eligible for an F-1 student visa, you must generally meet the following core criteria:  

• Acceptance by an SEVP-certified school: You must have been accepted by a school in the United States that is certified by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP). 

• Full-time enrolment: You must be enrolled in a full-time course of study. 

• Proof of financial support: You must demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to cover your tuition, living expenses, student accommodation and other costs during your studies in the USA.   

• English proficiency: You must demonstrate proficiency in the English language, often through standardised tests like IELTS or TOEFL. 

• Valid passport: You must have a valid passport that is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in the United States.   

While there is no official student visa age limit, older applicants may need to clearly demonstrate their genuine intent to study and how the programme aligns with their academic progression and career goals.  

Step-by-step: how to apply for a USA student visa  

Applying for a student visa in America involves a series of important steps. Here's a detailed breakdown of the process:  

1. Receive Form I-20: The process begins when you receive the Form I-20, "Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status," from the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS)-certified school that has accepted you. This document confirms your acceptance and enrolment. 

2. Pay the SEVIS fee: Before applying for your visa, you must pay the SEVIS I-901 fee. This fee supports the Student and Exchange Visitor Program. 

3. Fill out the DS-160 form: Complete the DS-160, the online Nonimmigrant Visa Application form. This form requires detailed personal and academic information. 

4. Pay the visa application fee: Pay the nonimmigrant visa application fee. 

5. Book your visa interview: Schedule an interview appointment at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in your country. 

6. Attend your U.S. Embassy interview: Attend the interview and bring all required documents, including your Form I-20, DS-160 confirmation, and financial documentation. 

7. Receive your visa: If your application is approved, your passport with the visa will be returned to you. 

Remember, your personal IDP Malaysia counsellor is available to support you throughout this process. We can provide assistance with:  

• Organising the necessary documents 

• Accurately completing the visa application forms 

• Providing guidance and coaching to prepare you for the interview with the visa officer at the U.S. Embassy 

Connect with IDP's expert counsellors for personalised guidance on your USA visa.

To apply for a USA F-1 study visa, you'll need to gather several essential documents. These typically include:  

• Form I-20: Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status 

• DS-160 confirmation page: Confirmation of your online Nonimmigrant Visa Application 

• Valid passport: Valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in the U.S. 

• Passport-style photo: As per U.S. visa photo specifications 

• SEVIS fee receipt: Proof of payment of the SEVIS I-901 fee 

• Financial documentation: Evidence of sufficient funds to cover your tuition and other student living expenses in the USA 

• Academic records: Transcripts, diplomas, and certificates from previous institutions 

• Test scores: Results from standardised tests like IELTS or TOEFL (if required by your institution) 

Here are a couple of helpful tips:  

• Translation: Ensure that all documents not in English are translated into English and certified. 

• Study plan: Prepare a clear and concise study plan to explain your academic goals and intent to the interviewing officer. 

How much does a USA student visa cost?  

Applying for a USA student visa involves several fees. Here's a breakdown of the key costs:  

• SEVIS fee: USD $350 

• Visa application (MRV) fee: USD $185 

Keep in mind that there may be additional costs associated with document preparation, bank fees, and potentially medical or courier expenses, depending on your individual circumstances. 

The processing time for a USA student visa can vary. The process includes SEVIS registration by your school and the time it takes to schedule and attend your visa interview. Visa interview wait times can differ significantly depending on the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in your country. 

To allow ample time for processing, it's strongly encouraged to apply for your student visa early, ideally at least 2-3 months before your programme's start date. 

How to check your visa status 

After your visa interview, you can track the progress of your application online. The U.S. Department of State's Visa Status Check portal allows you to follow your application's status using your DS-160 barcode number. 

Remember that processing times can vary, and approved visas are typically returned to you via courier within a few business days. 

While many student visa applications are approved, some are rejected. Common reasons for the rejection rate include:  

• Weak study intent: The consular officer is not convinced that your primary purpose for coming to the USA is to study. 

• Lack of financial proof: Insufficient evidence of funds to cover your USA study cost and living expenses.   

• Unclear academic progression: Your academic history or future study plans are unclear or don't make sense. 

To improve your chances of approval:  

• Complete documentation: Ensure all your documents are accurate and complete. 

• Strong interview answers: Prepare clear and concise answers to common interview questions. 

• IDP guidance: Seek guidance from IDP Malaysia counsellors to help you prepare your application and interview. 

F-1 student visa holders have specific work rights in the USA:  

• On-campus work: You can generally work up to 20 hours per week on campus during the academic term. 

• CPT and OPT: After one academic year, you may be eligible for Curricular Practical Training (CPT) and Optional Practical Training (OPT).   

• CPT allows for paid work experience that is an integral part of your academic programme.   

• OPT provides temporary employment authorisation directly related to your field of study.    

Can I work full-time in the USA after graduation?  

F-1 student visa holders may work full-time after graduation through Optional Practical Training (OPT). You can typically work for up to 12 months on OPT. Students in eligible STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields may apply for a 24-month STEM OPT extension, allowing for a total of 36 months of work authorisation.  

For long-term work authorisation beyond OPT, you can explore options like the H-1B visa. However, this USA visa requires employer sponsorship and meeting specific eligibility requirements.