How to Apply for a Student Visa to Study in the United States

New York Times

If you are a senior in high school, you hopefully have made that all-important decision as to which U.S. college or university you will attend this fall. As an international student, you have another critical step to take before your dream becomes a reality: the student visa interview.

There is no need to feel anxious about your student visa interview. International students who are currently studying in the United States have reported that their initial fears were unfounded, and instead gave way to excitement and anticipation after their visas were approved.

Here is some advice about obtaining your student visa:

Schedule your student visa appointment.

Receive your certificate of eligibility for nonimmigrant student status: either Form I-20 (for F or M visa) or Form DS-2019 (for J visa).

To apply for a visa, you must first have received a Form I-20 or Form DS-2019. The academic institutions that admit you will send a Form I-20 (for F or M visa) or Form DS-2019 (for J visa) depending on the visa that matches your study status....