Student Visas

How to Apply • Visa Delays and Expedited Appointments • Visa Denials • Frequently Asked Questions

How to Apply

A valid visa is required for all students entering the U.S., except citizens of Canada and Bermuda.

The instructions below provide general guidance for applying for a visa, however, steps and processing times vary by U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Please check the embassy or consulate website where you will apply for specific instructions.

1. Complete the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application, Form DS-160.
2. Schedule an interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in the country where you live.
3. Gather your documents for the visa interview.
   • Passport
   • DS-160 application form confirmation page
   • If required before the interview, application fee receipt
   • Photograph if not successfully uploaded to the DS-160
   • University of Arizona I-20
   • Your academic preparation, such as transcripts, diplomas, degrees or certificates from previous schools and standardized test scores submitted for admission
   • Documentation showing proof of ties to your home country and plan to depart after completing your studies
   • Proof of funding
4. Attend your visa interview. A consular officer will review your eligibility for a student visa. Digital fingerprint scans may be taken during the interview or at another time.

If your application requires further administrative processing, the consular officer will provide additional information.

If your visa is approved, you might need to pay a visa issuance fee, depending on your country. The embassy or consulate will also let you know how your passport and visa will be returned to you.

Review these resources to learn more about applying for your student visa:

• Check visa processing times
• Student Visa Overview & How to Apply (F-1)
• Exchange Visitor Overview & How to Apply (J-1)
• 10 Points to Remember When Applying for a Student Visa
• EducationUSA: Apply for your Student Visa

Special Considerations:

• SEVIS transfers are only required to apply for a new visa if you are outside the U.S. and your current visa has expired.
• Citizens of Canada and Bermuda are not required to apply for a student visa.
• When you enter the U.S., Customs and Border Protection may check that you plan to attend the school specified on your F-1 visa (or, for citizens of Canada or Bermuda, that you intend to attend the school that issued the I-20). This requirement applies only for initial entry in F-1 status.

Visa Delays and Expedited Appointments

Information about requesting an expedited appointment is available on the State Department website. Depending on your start date, you can use the Visa & Entry Letter to try to request an expedited appointment. We cannot provide customized letters or contact the embassy or consulate to intervene in your visa application in any way.

Visa Denials

Receiving a visa denial can be frustrating, but that doesn't necessarily mean you’re at the end of your academic journey in the U.S. If your application is denied, the U.S. consulate or embassy will issue a letter explaining the denial reason. Common reasons for visa denials include insufficient financial support, missing or incorrect documentation, and failure to establish non-immigrant intent.

If your visa application is denied, you may be able to reapply for the visa after addressing the reasons for denial mentioned in the letter. If you’re not able to get another appointment before the start of the term, visit our Checking In page for more information about your options. For additional questions, meet with an international student advisor.

Learn more about visa denials on the U.S. Department of State website.

Frequently Asked Questions