The F-1 visa is for full-time students enrolled in an academic. F-1 students must maintain a full-time course load and complete their studies by the expiration date listed on the I-20 form.
The M-1 visa is for nonacademic or vocational study in the U.S. These are short term courses.
The J-1 visa is for exchange visitors, including study abroad students, scholar and interns
Step 1
One can apply for student visa only after they apply and are being accepted to a SEVP approved school.
Step 2
Once accepted and admitted, one shall receive I-20. On receipt of I-20, pay SEVIS fees.
Step 3
Next, fill the DS-160 form (online nonimmigrant visa application). Make sure to fill in all the correct information. Submit an online DS-160 form and take print with a barcode.
Step 4
After submitting DS-160 form, pay visa fees either through NEFT, by visiting banks (citi bank or axis bank), UPI, using Debit/Credit Card. Create an online account and schedule an interview. One needs to schedule 2 appointments, one for the Visa Application Center (VAC) and one for the visa interview at the Embassy.
Step 5
Attend the interview
The following checklist will be helpful while applying to a university in the USA.
You are encouraged to apply for your non-immigrant student visa at the earliest. To ensure you get an early and timely date you may apply at any time, however a student visa may be issued no more than 120 days prior to the start date mentioned on your I-20.