Applying to US Universities

Student Visa (F-1 or J-1) is required for citizens of other countries to pursue a degree program at a US University. A personal interview is required for the student visa and an appointment is needed.

Like other US visa requirements, applicants for student visa need to complete DS Forms, Affix photographs as per specifications, and carry their passport and required fee. In addition, following are the documents one must carry for a student visa interview.

I-20: This is the single most important document and an absolute must to get a student visa. If you have multiple I-20s carry the one for your final University. If the I-20 has any errors get it sorted out with the University before you go for the visa.
Degrees: Carry all your degrees in original. The qualifying degree for your US admission is most relevant. If you have recently completed your study carry provisional degree or marksheet stating a degree has not yet been awarded.
Mark sheets: Carry all your marksheets / transcripts in original
Standardized Test score reports: Your GRE / SAT / GMAT / TOEFL score report whatever was required to obtain admission to the US University.
Financial Documents: Original passbooks and bank statements of self and sponsors
Income Tax Returns: Tax returns of the most recent two years of self and sponsors, as applicable.


One must carry all academic and financial documents possible in original. However in most cases the interviewer asks for one or two documents, from the above mentioned list. Good Luck with your visa interview.