USA Student visa Questions
275 questions
Browse by topic
Expert Answers
Why do I need an I-20 form to study in the USA as an Indian student?
→The I-20 is officially the Certificate of Eligibility, issued by an SEVP-certified school through its Designated School Official. It confirms you were admitted to a full-time program and have shown sufficient financial means. You need it to apply for an F-1 student visa at a US embassy or consulate.
How much will my F-1 visa application and SEVIS fees cost, and how many hours can I work in the USA?
→The F-1 visa application fee is USD 185 and the SEVIS fee is typically USD 350 for F and M applicants. F-1 students usually cannot work more than 20 hours per week during term, though up to 40 hours may be allowed during holidays, breaks and summer sessions.
Can I work in the US after my degree, and how does OPT work for me?
→OPT is a temporary employment permission that typically gives you around 12 months of practical experience in your field of study. You can apply after being enrolled for at least 9 months, but you cannot begin work until you receive your Employment Authorisation Document. Check official USCIS rules.
What order should I follow when paying my US student visa fees from India?
→Typically you receive your I-20, pay the SEVIS I-901 fee, complete the DS-160, pay the MRV fee, book and attend your interview, and pay the Visa Integrity Fee only if approved. Check the official visa portal for the latest steps.
Do I have to carry health insurance as an Indian student studying in the USA?
→Yes. International students at American universities are typically required to hold year-round health and accident insurance, including summer months. Many schools offer a sponsored plan and require you to enroll unless you show other coverage. Check your university's insurance policy for the latest rules.
What does the H-1B Cap-Gap extension mean for my F-1 status if my OPT ends before October 1?
→The H-1B Cap-Gap extension lets an F-1 student with a pending or approved H-1B petition and a pending status change request stay lawfully in the United States, typically until the approved H-1B job start date, even if OPT or the grace period ends before October 1.
Can my study gap be explained in my US F1 student visa application, and how?
→To explain a study gap for a US F1 student visa, you can show social service experience, part-time courses or teaching, and relevant extracurricular activities. If the gap was due to a medical condition, attach the relevant attested medical certificates. Check official US guidance for current rules.
What topics should I expect F1 visa officers to ask me about in the interview?
→F1 visa interviews usually cover your study plans, financial standing, intent to return to your home country and personal history. Officers may also ask about test scores, English proficiency, transcripts and why you chose the university. Be specific and consistent with your application.
All Questions (275)
What is the trickiest part of preparing O-1 visa paperwork for Indian professionals moving to work in the USA?
→What common mistakes lead to F1 visa rejections during US student visa interviews for Indian applicants?
→What financial and visa risks should Indian students in the USA know, like running out of savings or working illegally on F1?
→What can Indian students do after their F1 visa gets rejected under section 214(b) for undergraduate studies in the USA?
→What does Trump's new $100,000 H-1B visa fee mean for Indian students hoping to work in the USA after graduating?
→Should a US citizen who has lived and studied entirely in India pursue higher studies in the United States?
→Is it advisable to use third party agents to book a US student visa appointment slot when time is short?
→Is it necessary to convert an Indian bank account into an NRI account when moving to the US for a PhD?
→How would a proposed rule limiting F-1 student visas to a maximum of four years affect international students in the USA?
→How will the new wage-based H-1B selection system for FY 2027 affect Indian students pursuing a master's in computer science?
→How are declining H1B selection rates affecting the post-graduation plans of Indian students pursuing an MS in the US?
→Given companies increasingly refusing H1B sponsorship, is pursuing a bachelor's in engineering in the USA still worth it for AI/ML careers?
→Does the new $100,000 H-1B fee apply to international students switching their status from F-1 to H-1B?
→Can Indian F-1 visa applicants be denied over discrepancies in disclosing their social media accounts to US authorities?
→What steps can I take if my long stay student visa application for France keeps getting rejected despite submitting all required documents?
→Which is a reliable and affordable service for getting documents apostilled or legalised for a master's application to Austria?
→