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How to Apply for a Student Visa to USA
1. You need a photograph that meets the specifications. Scan and save the photo. You will upload it into the DS-160. Basic digital photo requirements:
A .jpg file between 600x600 and 1200x1200 pixels
Less than 240kbs
Not digitally altered
2. Complete Form DS-160 online here. Save often to avoid data loss. Answer all of the questions as thoroughly as possible before submitting. Incomplete forms may not be accepted.
3. Print the barcode at the end of the application on a laser printer. Do not use an inkjet printer. Verify that the barcode is clear and readable. If your barcode is not clearly readable, your application will be delayed.
4. Pay the visa application fee at an approved HDFC bank. You must wait one business day before using the receipt to make your appointment.
5. Make your appointment through the VFS website. You cannot make an appointment without your DS-160 barcode number and HDFC fee receipt. Please do not arrive for your interview more than 15 minutes before the time on your letter.
Tips on completing the DS-160:
After reviewing the Nonimmigrant Visa Application Process, all visa applicants must submit a form DS-160 online application prior to making an appointment.
The interviewing post you select at the starting of form DS -160 will also be accepted if you end up scheduling appointment in other post
All questions must be answered in English using English characters only. Indian applicants should check “Does Not Apply” to the prompt for “Full Name in Native Alphabet.”
All applicants are required to submit a photograph on the DS-160. Detailed photograph requirements are on the U.S. Department of State website at http://travel.state.gov/visa/guide/guide_3877.html
The DS-160 “times out” after 20 minutes without user activity, and your data will be lost. To safeguard against data loss, click the “Save” button frequently and download the file. Select a place on your computer to save the application file, browse to that location, and click the “Save” button on the “Save As” window.
The completed DS-160 application form will generate an alpha-numeric barcode confirmation page. Print this page using a laser printer. Ink-jet or dot-matrix printers do provide sufficient resolution to print a usable barcode.
Once you have printed the barcode confirmation page, hit the “Back” button and email yourself the same so you have a backup copy. The emailed file will be in PDF format, and thus requires Adobe Acrobat to view or print.
Carry with You to the Interview:
Your valid passport and previously issued passports
One recent (within the past six months) passport size photograph 50mm X 50mm (2" x 2") with a white background.
The DS-160 confirmation page with barcode
The HDFC visa application fee receipts (not required for work visa applicants who submit receipts in advance)
VFS appointment letter
Document requirements for H and L applicants.
Other petition-based visa applicants should bring copies of the I-797, I-129 and other petition-related documents
F, M students must bring the SEVIS receipt and I-20.
J exchange visitors must bring the SEVIS receipt and DS-2019.
Science and technology applicants may require additional processing. Bring supporting documents to minimize the processing time.
Delivery or Pick Up
Issued visas can be picked up at VFS or couriered to you at no extra charge. Delivery can take up to seven business days but is normally much faster. Information on courier service, tracking passports or submitting documents is available on the VFS website.
Questions?
Email: infoushyderabad@vfshelpline.com
US Consulate Hyderabad
http://hyderabad.usconsulate.gov/visaservices.html
Frequently Asked Questions for the Online DS-160 Nonimmigrant Visa Electronic Application
http://travel.state.gov/visa/forms/forms_4401.html
Pay SEVIS at:
https://www.fmjfee.com/i901fee/
Book your appointment at:
www.vfs-usa.co.in