Gaining access to higher education can be challenging for international students, but with proper guidance and assistance it shouldn’t be an uphill struggle. Students from outside of the United States needing to study here must obtain a nonimmigrant student visa such as F-1 before coming here for study purposes; there may also be different kinds of student visas that you may apply for as foreign nationals studying in either America or Canada.
As examples, consider: the M-1 visa allows non-citizens to combine secondary education with vocational training at once; F-2 allows spouses of primary or secondary school education students to live abroad while they continue their studies; J-1 grants academic exchange visitors with specialist skills the chance to reside temporarily in another country for research on topics of mutual interest or language training…
1) know Your F-1 Visa Requirements
Every student seeking to study in the U.S. must first obtain an F-1 visa. This document allows those from outside of the country to pursue education at U.S. schools for up to 12 months at most; some requirements for getting one include:-
2) Find The Right School And University
Before applying for a student visa, it’s essential that you select your university of choice and select an educational institute that matches up with your profile. Before choosing any school in America or Canada for study purposes, make sure it’s accredited by the U.S. Department of Education (DOE), can host international students, and is accredited to host foreigners. Here is a list of Canadian universities which accept international students if that is what your goal is.
3)Apply For An F-1 Visa Well In Advance
The U.S. Department of State (DOS) advises applying for an F-1 visa at least four months before your standard period of study starts (for instance if your program runs for one semester then four months should pass between applying and starting it). Applications submitted within one month of program starting may be denied due to security concerns; additionally you will be expected to show sufficient funds in your account to cover both education costs as well as living costs.
4) Get Your Supporting Documents In Order
For you to obtain a student visa in the U.S., certain supporting documents must be presented. These may include:- – A letter of acceptance from an educational institution within the United States – Certified copies of your high school or college/university transcript – If applying to pursue vocational programs you must provide a letter of intent outlining how this program meets your career goals as well as financial support letter from sponsor
5) Practice Your Interview Skills
Consular interviews are an integral part of applying for visas. Be prepared for an interview by a consular officer from the U.S. consulate who may pose several pertinent questions that will ultimately determine your fate as they could determine if you receive one or not.
If asked why they want to study in the United States, research its culture before the interview and know when your course of study will end. In addition, be prepared for questions regarding your family, relationships with them and financial situations that might come up.
6) Be Ready To Pay A Deposit Fee
Some universities require you to pay a deposit fee when applying for a student visa, which varies between universities and can even vary if applying to multiple ones simultaneously. It’s non-refundable and acts as protection for them – to ensure you’re serious about continuing your studies and prevent sudden withdrawal without good reason.
Conclusion
Students are an invaluable asset to any country, bringing new perspectives, new energy and fresh ideas. Although obtaining a student visa may seem like an uphill struggle at first, with support and guidance it shouldn’t be too much of a struggle – after reading this article you should now know how to obtain one and make 2019 your year to travel and study abroad! Are you ready to embark on your academic journey abroad? Make this year the one where your dreams become a reality!