How To Apply USA Student Visa From Nepal? 

Obtaining a student visa to pursue higher education in the United States can pave the way for tremendous opportunities. However, navigating the application process requires thorough preparation, diligent documentation, and patience.

For Nepali students hoping to study at an American college or university, here is a step-by-step guide to securing your student visa.

Get Accepted into a Certified Program

The first crucial step is gaining admission into a U.S. educational institution certified by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP). This could include any accredited university, college, high school, private elementary school, seminary, conservatory, or language training program.

You must apply for a student visa with acceptance from an approved SEVP institution.

Research your options thoroughly and apply to programs that align with your academic and career goals. If admitted, the designated school official from the international student office will provide you with an important document: Form I-20.

This I-20 form will be issued by the SEVP-approved school which contains your SEVIS identification number for processing your visa.

Pay the SEVIS Fee

As an F-1 visa applicant, you must pay an administrative SEVIS fee to the U.S. government covering processing costs for international students. As of 2022, the fee is $350. You can submit payment electronically through the I-901 SEVIS website using a credit or debit card. Print and save the payment confirmation receipt to bring to your visa interview.

Complete the DS-160 Visa Application

The next vital step is completing the online DS-160 nonimmigrant visa application. You can locate this interactive form on the U.S. Department of State website.

It requires you to upload a digital photo and answer in-depth questions covering biographical data, contact information, travel plans, education, work history, and security background. It usually takes 1-2 hours to fill out the DS-160 accurately. Remember to print the confirmation page.

Schedule a Visa Interview

Once you complete the DS-160, you can schedule a nonimmigrant visa interview appointment through the Ustraveldocs portal(https://portal.ustraveldocs.com/?language=English&country=Nepal) Wait times for appointments vary from a couple of days up to several weeks, depending on seasonal demand.

Confirm the interview date and gather all required documentation. Failure to bring any essential documents can delay the visa process.

Remember student visas for new students can be issued up to 365 days in advance of the start date for a course of study. But, you will not be allowed to enter the US on your student visa more than 30 days before the start date.

Gather Supporting Documentation

The visa officer will require you to show several supporting documents at your interview to ascertain your student status and ties to Nepal that will incentivize your return after completing academic studies:

• Valid Nepali passport valid for at least six more months beyond your period of stay in the US
• Originals of signed Form I-20 and SEVIS fee payment receipt 
• Appointment Confirmation Letter
• Print-out of DS-160 confirmation page
• Visa Application (MRV) fee payment receipt
• Two recent passport-size photos
• Academic transcripts and diplomas 
• Standardized test score reports (TOEFL, GRE, GMAT) if applicable

Attend the Visa Interview

Prepare to convincingly answer questions about your academic plans, intended length of U.S. stay, financial arrangements during your stay, and future goals that compel returning home after finishing your studies. Dress professionally, arrive early, and demonstrate English fluency.

The visa officer will return your passport containing the visa stamp or provide you with instructions to collect it within a few business days if approved.

With diligent preparation, Nepali students can safely navigate the U.S. student visa process. Gaining admission to a Student and Exchange Visitor Program-certified school sets the stage for this incredible journey that opens intellectual and career doors.

Maintaining valid immigration status while enrolled and embracing experiences on campus and beyond will lead to transformative personal growth.

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