#1 study abroad choice
Study in the USA
Realize your full potential with top-ranked universities, cutting-edge research, and an authentic global campus experience in the world's largest economy of knowledge.
50% of global top 20
1.1M+ students
36 mo OPT + STEM OPT
3500+Degree-granting colleges
4.9★ student satisfaction
0+ US colleges & universities
0% of 2025 global top 20
0+ nations represented
0B+ economic contribution
why the usa
Your global launchpad
Learn why international students choose to study in the United States more than any other nation.
World-class education
More than half of the THE World Top 20 (2025) are U.S. universities.
Diverse community
1.126 million international students hosted in 2023/24 — an all-time high.
Career launchpad
On-campus work, OPT (12 mo) and STEM OPT (+24 mo) build real U.S. industry exposure.
Innovation hub
Access to Silicon Valley, world-class research labs, and startup ecosystems.
Not sure the USA is the right fit?
Talk to a counsellor and compare it against your other shortlisted destinations.
are you eligible?
F-1 Student Visa Requirements
Key criteria you must meet before applying for your U.S. student visa.
1
Form I-20
Secure admission to a SEVP-certified institution and receive your official Form I-20 to begin the F-1 process.
2
Financial Capacity
Show funds covering at least the first year's tuition and living expenses, matching the cost-of-attendance figures on your I-20.
3
SEVIS Fee & DS-160
Pay the SEVIS I-901 fee and complete the DS-160 online nonimmigrant visa application ahead of your interview.
4
Standardized Tests
Valid TOEFL/IELTS scores, plus SAT/ACT (undergraduate) or GRE/GMAT (graduate) where required by your program.
5
Nonimmigrant Intent
Demonstrate strong ties to your home country and a genuine intent to return after completing your studies.
Visas may be issued up to 365 days ahead
Wondering if you qualify?
Get a free, no-obligation eligibility assessment from our visa experts.
your roadmap
How we guide you
Your step-by-step guide to studying in the USA.
1
Research & Planning
Our experts help you shortlist universities and courses that suit your objectives, and assist in examining entry requirements, admission dates, and funding.
2
Standardized Tests
Where necessary, we recommend suitable tests (TOEFL/IELTS, SAT/ACT, GRE/GMAT) and assist with preparation and score reporting per university guidelines.
3
Application Submission
We ease your application process — essays/SOPs, CVs, recommendations, and transcript review — ensuring accuracy before submission.
4
Visa Application (F-1)
Once your I-20 is confirmed, we guide you through SEVIS fee payment, the DS-160 form, document verification, and interview preparation.
5
Pre-Departure
Housing, travel arrangements, orientation, and document preparation — arrival is permitted no earlier than 30 days before your program start.
in-demand
Popular study programs
Find popular majors that match international recruitment patterns (admissions requirements and fees differ by school).
Technology
Computer Science & Engineering
AI/ML, cybersecurity, data, software — with research access and Silicon Valley connections.
OPT + STEM OPT eligibleBusiness
Business & Management
Leadership, analytics, supply chain, fintech — excellent internship and alumni networks.
Strong industry tiesHealth
Biomedical & Health Sciences
Public health, biomedical engineering, biotech — partnerships with top hospitals & research centers.
High-demand fieldAnalytics
Data Science & Analytics
Big-data pipelines, statistics & ML — interdisciplinary projects with real datasets.
Fast-growing demandHumanities
Liberal Arts & Sciences
Communication, economics, social sciences & humanities with flexible pathways into law, policy, and business.
Flexible pathwaysstay organized
Document Checklist
A complete file means faster processing and fewer surprises at your visa interview. Track your progress below.
F-1 Visa Document Pack
Everything you need across academics, finances, and your visa interview — organized so nothing slips through the cracks.
14
items to
prepare
prepare
Academic Documents
- Form I-20 from your SEVP-certified school
- Transcripts & degree certificates
- TOEFL/IELTS & SAT/ACT or GRE/GMAT scores
- Letters of recommendation
Financial Documents
- Bank statements matching I-20 cost of attendance
- Sponsor's income proof / affidavit of support
- Loan sanction or scholarship letter (if applicable)
- SEVIS I-901 fee payment receipt
Visa Interview Documents
- Valid passport (6+ months beyond intended stay)
- DS-160 confirmation page
- Visa application fee (MRV) receipt
- Interview appointment confirmation
- Passport-size photographs (as per DS-160 specs)
- Evidence of ties to home country
answers
Frequently asked questions
How long does the F-1 visa process take?
Timelines are embassy, consulate, and season-dependent. You may get your visa up to 365 days before your program starts; appointment wait times vary by location.
Can I work while studying?
Yes — F-1 students can work on campus up to 20 hours/week during terms (full-time during breaks). Post-study OPT provides up to 12 months, with a 24-month STEM extension where applicable.
What if my application is denied?
You may reapply after addressing the reason(s) for denial and providing stronger evidence of eligibility, funding, and nonimmigrant intent per consular guidance.
How much money must I demonstrate?
You need to show resources covering at least the first year's tuition and living expenses as stated in your I-20; universities publish estimated cost-of-attendance figures you should match.
When should I arrange travel?
Plan to arrive no later than 30 days before your I-20 start date — earlier arrival requires a separate visitor visa and isn't possible on F-1.
Ready to begin your journey?
Whether you study, work, or seek international exposure, we make it easy and rewarding. Get in touch with our expert team today — the world is yours at Chalo America.
Schedule free consultation