Step-by-Step Guide to Getting an Indian Student Visa for the USA (2025)
Thousands of Indian students follow their dream every year to study in USA, which is known for its top-ranked universities, a wide range of programs, and connections with other countries. You’ll need a U.S. student visa to start that trip, though. The process may seem daunting, but it’s actually very easy to accomplish with the right planning and assistance.
If you plan to study in the U.S. in 2025, this guide simplifies the process and highlights how study abroad consultants and visa experts can assist you.
1. Choose the Right Visa Type to Study in USA
For full-time students in academic programs, the F-1 visa is the most common means of studying in the United States. You can study a trade with M-1, and you can go on an exchange program with J-1. Ensure the college or university you wish to apply to is SEVP-approved. Only these schools can provide you with the I-20 form, which is required for your visa application.
2. Secure Admission and Receive Your Form I-20
The SEVP will send you a Form I-20 if you are accepted into a school with which they have a partnership. This form provides information about your student ID, the course start date, course costs, and the required financial information. This is what you’ll need to apply for a visa.
At this point, abroad Study consultants are very useful. They do everything from helping you pick the right schools to making sure your application is complete. They also help you accept an offer and fill out the paperwork.
3. Pay SEVIS Fee and Fill DS-160 Form
Pay the USD 350 SEVIS I-901 fee once you get your I-20. After that, fill out the DS-160 form online. Check that the information on your passport and I-20 match up. Send in the form and print out the confirmation page with the barcode. You’ll need it for your visa interview.
Visa consultants can help you avoid common mistakes and delays on the DS-160 form if you’re not sure what to fill out.
4. Book Your Visa Appointments and Prepare
You’ll need two appointments:
- At the Visa Application Center (VAC) for photo and fingerprints
- At the U.S. Embassy or Consulate for your visa interview
During the interview, officers will ask about your university, course, finances, and intentions after graduation. Be honest and confident. Carry all documents including your I-20, DS-160 confirmation, SEVIS fee receipt, bank statements, and university letter.
Visa consultants and study abroad consultants often conduct mock interviews to help you prepare.
5. Get Your Visa and Plan Travel
If your visa is approved, your passport will be stamped and returned in 5–7 working days. You can enter the U.S. up to 30 days before your program starts. Plan your flights, health insurance, and initial accommodation accordingly.
For smooth pre-departure planning, experienced Visa consultants can help you with travel documents and current entry requirements.
Why Consultants Matter for Your Study Abroad Journey
While the process may seem straightforward, even a minor mistake can cause delays or rejections. That’s why working with trusted study abroad consultants and Visa consultants is recommended. They offer end-to-end support from helping you shortlist universities to ensuring your visa interview goes well.
Conclusion
Getting your student visa is the first step towards your dream of studying in the United States. With new rules for 2025 and more competition, it’s important to stay informed and organised. If you’re planning to study in USA, study abroad and visa consultants can help with everything from getting into school to getting ready for the visa interview. This can make the process easier and less stressful.
Start Your Study Abroad Journey with Confidence
Want to know how to study in USA? The professionals, overseas education consultants in Bangalore, at can help you choose a university, fill out an application, get ready for a visa interview, and more. Our skilled Visa and study abroad consultants have helped tens of thousands of students do well.
FAQs
Start three to four months before your program starts to give yourself time for processing and any delays that come up.
You can work up to 20 hours a week on campus as a part-time worker and then apply for OPT or CPT soon after.
You need to show that you have enough money to pay for school and live for at least one year.
You can apply again. You should find out why you were turned down and fix any problems before your next interview.
Yes, a lot of study abroad consultants in Hyderabad help students apply for scholarships based on their academic performance or those offered by their university.
