How to Get Student Visa for US: Complete Guide 2025–2026

A US student visa is a nonimmigrant visa that allows international students to enter and study full-time at accredited educational institutions in the United States. The main student visa types are F‑1 visas for academic studies at schools, colleges, and universities, and M‑1 visas for vocational or non-academic programs. Students cannot use visitor visas or the Visa Waiver Program for full-time study—any long-term academic program requires an appropriate student visa.

This visa is the gateway for hundreds of thousands of students each year who want access to genuine American education and top-ranked universities. In 2025–2026, with processing backlogs, changing embassy wait times, and closer scrutiny of financial documents, understanding the current rules is essential. Amerigo Education guides international high school students through this entire process, combining visa support with 360° on-campus care and clear pathways to leading US and Canadian universities.

What are the requirements for a US student visa?

US student visa requirements include a valid passport, admission to a SEVP‑certified school, a Form I‑20, a completed DS‑160 application, SEVIS registration, proof of finances, and attendance at a visa interview. For most international high school students, this means receiving an I‑20 from a US high school or pathway program, paying the I‑901 SEVIS fee, and then applying for an F‑1 visa at a US embassy or consulate.

Your passport must usually be valid for at least six months beyond your intended period of stay. The DS‑160 is an online form where you enter biographical details, travel plans, and background information. The Form I‑20, issued by your school, lists your SEVIS ID, program dates, and estimated costs that consular officers will review.

Essential documentation checklist:

1. Valid passport – Generally valid at least six months beyond your program end date
2. Form I‑20 – Certificate of Eligibility from a SEVP‑certified institution
3. DS‑160 confirmation page – Completed online application with barcode
4. SEVIS I‑901 fee receipt – Proof of SEVIS registration payment
5. Financial documents – Bank statements, sponsor letters, or scholarship confirmations
6. Academic records – Transcripts, report cards, and test scores as required
7. Passport photo – Meeting current State Department specifications
8. Visa application fee receipt – Proof of paying the non‑refundable visa fee

Financial documents must show you can cover tuition, living costs, and other expenses for at least the first year of study. Consular officers may question recent large deposits or unclear sponsorship. They also look for ties to your home country—such as family, school or work plans, or long‑term goals—that suggest you intend to return after your studies.

How much does a US student visa cost in 2025–2026?

The core direct costs for a US student visa include the non‑immigrant visa application fee and the SEVIS I‑901 registration fee. Together, these usually total several hundred US dollars before considering travel or document expenses. Families should budget for these fees alongside tuition deposits and other pre‑departure costs.

Beyond the basic fees, some applicants may need to pay additional visa issuance or reciprocity fees depending on their nationality. These charges vary and are based on agreements between the United States and each country. They are generally paid only after visa approval and can be checked on official government websites.

Students also face indirect costs such as travel to the embassy or consulate, document translation or notarization, courier services for passport return, and any legal or advisory fees if using local consultants. When planning a 2025–2026 study start, it is smart to include these smaller items in your overall budget so there are no last‑minute surprises.

Premium high school pathways like Amerigo Education's programs help families understand the full cost picture early. Because Amerigo works with families investing $40,000–$110,000+ per year depending on the program, we have transparent pricing that clearly explains what's included—such as housing, on-campus support, and 24/7 staff—versus what's billed separately (like visa services through a third-party partner) which forms a critical part of the decision.

What is the F‑1 student visa application process?

The F‑1 student visa process starts once you are accepted to a SEVP‑certified school and receive your Form I‑20. From there, you pay the SEVIS fee, complete the DS‑160, book your embassy interview, and attend with all required documents. The whole process typically takes several weeks, though timelines vary widely by country and season.

Your school's international or admissions office enters your information into SEVIS and issues your I‑20. You should check every detail on the form—your name, date of birth, program start date, and financial amounts—and request corrections immediately if anything is wrong. Consular officers rely on this document to understand your plan of study.

Typical F‑1 application steps (6–8 week window):

1. Receive admission and Form I‑20 from a SEVP‑certified US school
2. Review and confirm I‑20 details; request corrections if needed
3. Pay the SEVIS I‑901 fee and keep the payment confirmation
4. Complete the DS‑160 online and print the confirmation page
5. Schedule your visa interview at the nearest US embassy or consulate
6. Prepare your document file with financial proof, transcripts, and test scores
7. Attend the interview and answer questions about your plans and funding
8. Wait for visa processing and receive your passport with visa if approved

Interview wait times in 2025–2026 can still be affected by local conditions and seasonal demand. Amerigo Education advises families to start visa steps as soon as they receive the I‑20 and to avoid waiting until close to the program start date. Early action provides more room to fix any unexpected document or appointment issues.

When should I apply for my student visa for the US?

You should apply for your US student visa as soon as practical after receiving your Form I‑20 and within the official time windows allowed. Embassies and consulates can generally issue F‑1 visas up to 120 days before your program start date, and you may travel to the US up to 30 days before classes begin.

Because embassy appointment availability and processing times change throughout the year, working backward from your school's start date is essential. For fall 2025 or fall 2026 intakes, many students find that applying three to four months in advance offers a reasonable buffer for any delays, document corrections, or administrative processing.

You should also coordinate your visa timing with other key steps such as housing selection, flight bookings, and pre‑departure orientations. Programs like Amerigo Education help align these milestones so you are not committing to non‑refundable travel arrangements before your visa decision, while still arriving early enough to attend orientation and settle into dorm life.

Why do US student visa applications get denied?

US student visa denials usually relate to issues with finances, intent, documentation, or credibility during the interview. Consular officers must be confident that you can afford your studies, that you are a genuine student, and that you have a plan to return home after completing your program.

Financial concerns arise when bank statements do not clearly support the costs listed on your I‑20, when sponsors are not well documented, or when funds appear suddenly and without explanation. Officers may also question whether you understand the full costs of studying and living in the US.

Intent to return is another major factor. If your answers about future plans are vague, or if you cannot explain why you chose a particular school or program, the officer may doubt your educational purpose. Past immigration issues or inconsistent information across forms also increase the risk of denial.

Common reasons for F‑1 visa refusals:

- Unclear or insufficient financial evidence to cover tuition and living costs
- Weak ties to home country or unclear post‑study plans
- Poor interview performance with memorized or inconsistent answers
- Inconsistent information between DS‑160, I‑20, and supporting documents
- Past immigration problems such as overstays or visa violations
- Questionable or inauthentic documents submitted in support of the application

Preparation can significantly reduce these risks. Practising how to explain your academic goals and why you selected a specific school helps you speak naturally and confidently. Premium providers such as Amerigo Education's partner schools have years of experience recruiting international students and are well-known with strong visa passing rates. For additional support, Amerigo's third-party visa partner offers interview coaching and document review to help students present a clear, honest, and well-organized case—these services come at an additional cost and are not included in tuition and housing fees.

How are 2025–2026 conditions affecting student visa planning?

While core F‑1 visa rules remain stable, planning for 2025–2026 must account for evolving practical conditions: shifting embassy backlogs, occasional regional disruptions, and closer review of financial and security‑related information. Families should assume that processing may take longer than pre‑2020 norms and build extra time into their preparations.

Embassy appointment availability can change quickly based on local staffing and demand. In some regions, high‑volume periods—such as late spring and early summer for fall intake—see increased wait times for both scheduling and case processing. Students aiming for selective US high schools or tight academic calendars need to treat visa timing as a central part of their plan, not a last‑minute task.

Universities and high schools also continue to refine their own documentation standards and communication with international offices. That means students must pay close attention to school instructions about deposits, I‑20 issuance, and reporting dates. Amerigo Education, operating as the international department on partner campuses, helps families interpret these requirements and stay aligned with both school and government expectations.

What support do students need during the visa process?

Most students and families benefit from structured support before, during, and after the visa process. The requirements involve multiple systems—schools, SEVIS, embassies, and border control—so having one coordinated guide reduces confusion and stress.

Before the visa interview, students often need help choosing SEVP‑certified schools that match their English level, academic background, and long‑term university goals. They also need clear instructions on which financial and academic documents to collect, how to organize them, and how to answer likely interview questions.

After visa issuance, support shifts to pre‑departure planning, arrival logistics, and understanding how to maintain status. This includes learning attendance expectations, travel signature rules for the I‑20, and basic work authorization concepts so that students avoid unintentional violations.

Amerigo Education provides this full spectrum of guidance as part of its 360° support model. Amerigo's on‑campus teams handle day‑to‑day questions once students arrive in the US or Canada, coordinate academic support, and ensure students remain in good standing while they progress toward Top 100 and Top 50 university pathways.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I work while on a student visa?

F‑1 students can generally work on campus up to 20 hours per week during the academic term and full time during official breaks. However, Amerigo students are typically under the age of 18 and are not permitted to work while on the program. Students should focus on their academic goals.

What happens if my student visa expires while I'm studying?

Your physical visa stamp is primarily for entry. If it expires while you are in the US but you maintain valid F‑1 status through full‑time study and a current I‑20, you can usually stay and continue your program. However, if you travel outside the US after the visa expires, you will need to apply for a new visa before re‑entering. Many students plan renewals during trips home and coordinate timing carefully with their school's international office.

Can I change schools after getting my student visa?

Yes, many F‑1 students transfer schools at least once, but there is a specific process. Your SEVIS record must be formally transferred from your current institution to the new SEVP‑certified school, and you must maintain full‑time enrollment throughout. You should inform your current school, obtain a new I‑20 from the transfer‑in school, and follow all deadlines. Because transfers can affect university pathways, Amerigo Education helps students consider long‑term plans before making changes.

How long before my program starts can I enter the US?

F‑1 students are generally allowed to enter the United States up to 30 days before the program start date listed on the I‑20. This early entry window gives time for moving into housing, attending orientation, and adjusting to the new environment. Arriving too late may cause you to miss orientation or classes, and some schools may require deferral if you cannot arrive by a certain date. Always confirm arrival expectations with your school.

What if my student visa application is denied?

If your visa is refused, you should carefully review the explanation given by the consular officer. Common steps before reapplying include strengthening your financial evidence, clarifying your study plans, and correcting any inconsistencies from the first interview. There is no fixed waiting period before you can apply again, but simply repeating the same application without changes rarely leads to a different result. Many families seek professional guidance before a second attempt.

Do I need health insurance for my student visa?

Health insurance is not usually a direct visa requirement, but almost all US schools require students to have adequate coverage. Many institutions offer their own international student plans and automatically enroll or bill students for them. Others allow approved external policies that meet specific coverage levels. Because medical care in the US can be very expensive, having comprehensive insurance is essential for both financial protection and access to services.

Can my family accompany me on a student visa?

Spouses and unmarried children under 21 may accompany F‑1 students as F‑2 dependents. They must apply for their own visas using supporting documents tied to the main student's I‑20 and financial proof. F‑2 dependents are not allowed to work in the US and face limits on full‑time study at the university level, although school‑age children can usually attend primary or secondary school. Families should ensure they understand these rules before deciding whether dependents will relocate.

What happens if I don't maintain my student status?

Failing to maintain full‑time enrollment, working without proper authorization, or ignoring program rules can result in a loss of status. In such cases, students may be required to leave the US or apply for reinstatement under strict conditions. Status violations can also affect future visa applications or eligibility for certain immigration benefits. This is why schools—and partners like Amerigo—place strong emphasis on regular attendance, academic progress, and clear communication.

How early can I apply for my student visa?

You can generally schedule your visa interview and receive a visa up to 120 days before your program start date, though local embassy practices can vary. You should not attempt to apply earlier than this window, as officers cannot issue visas too far in advance. However, you can gather documents, pay the SEVIS fee, and prepare your DS‑160 as soon as you receive the I‑20 so you can act quickly when the timing is appropriate.

Can I travel outside the US during my studies?

Many F‑1 students travel internationally during holidays or summer breaks. To re‑enter the US, you will need a valid passport, a valid F‑1 visa, and a current I‑20 with a recent travel signature from your designated school official. You should also carry proof of continued enrollment and financial support. Always check travel plans with your school's international office before departure to avoid problems at the border.

What if there are errors on my I‑20 form?

If you notice any mistakes on your I‑20—such as incorrect name spelling, date of birth, program start or end dates, or funding amounts—you should contact your school immediately. The international office can update SEVIS and issue a corrected I‑20. It is important to fix errors before your visa interview or before traveling, because consular officers and border officials rely heavily on this document when making decisions.

How do I prepare for the visa interview?

Good interview preparation involves understanding your own story and being ready to explain it clearly. You should be able to discuss why you chose your school, how the program fits your future plans, who is paying for your education, and what you intend to do after graduation. Organize your documents in a simple folder, arrive early, and answer questions honestly without memorized speeches. Schools and partners like Amerigo Education often provide mock interview practice and coaching to build confidence.

Conclusion: Your path to US education success

Getting a US student visa is a detailed but manageable process when you understand the requirements, start early, and stay organized. From receiving your I‑20 and paying the SEVIS fee to completing the DS‑160 and attending the embassy interview, each step builds toward the moment you can begin your American education journey.

In 2025–2026, families are navigating not only standard rules but also varying embassy conditions, increased competition for top schools, and higher expectations around documentation. Working with a trusted partner can make the difference between a stressful experience and a confident, well‑planned transition.

Amerigo Education combines visa guidance with a complete high school and university pathway model in the US and Canada. Through exclusive A+/A‑rated partner schools, 360° on‑campus support, and dual enrollment partnerships with institutions such as UC San Diego, the University of San Diego, the University of Minnesota, and the Milwaukee School of Engineering, Amerigo prepares students for both successful visa outcomes and strong university admissions. If you are ready to explore this route, you can apply to our top‑ranking secondary schools in the US and Canada and begin your path toward leading North American universities.

This article provides general information for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal, immigration, tax, financial, or professional advice. Always consult qualified professionals regarding your specific situation.