Latest news with #SEVP-approved
Time of India
12-06-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Planning to study in the US? Here's what you need to know about the F-1 visa
The US F-1 visa enables international students to study in America. Eligibility requires admission to a SEVP-approved school, proof of English ability, and financial capacity. The application process involves obtaining Form I-20, paying fees, completing the DS-160 form, and attending interviews. Maintaining visa status requires full-time enrollment and adherence to regulations. Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Gain admission to a SEVP‑approved school Prove English ability and financial capacity Confirm intent to return home after studies Receive your Form I‑20 from the school Pay the SEVIS fee (~US $350) Complete DS‑160 form and print confirmation with barcode Schedule biometrics at a VAC and visa interview at the US embassy Pay the visa application fee (US $185) Also Read: US embassy issues stern warning amid Indian student handcuffing row Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Valid passport (6+ months beyond stay) Form I‑20 and SEVIS fee receipt DS‑160 confirmation and visa‑fee receipt Academic records, test scores, proof of funds Your academic plan, finances, and family ties to India Strength of intent to return post studies Be punctual, clear, and honest Enrol full‑time at your institution Seek permission before working off‑campus Keep valid documents and inform your DSO of changes Navigating a US student visa can be complex, but the US F‑1 visa offers international students a clear route to study in America. This guide unveils key steps-from eligibility and application to maintaining status and work F‑1 visa is for academic program students at US institutions. To be eligible, you must:One of the common visa denial reasons—such as insufficient funds or weak academic intent, and one must check thorough documentation and undergo a genuine interview approved, comply with F‑1 rules:F‑1 students may work on‑campus (typically up to 20 hrs/week during semesters) and qualify for Optional Practical Training OPT ) after graduating—with STEM graduates eligible for a 24‑month you may apply for OPT or seek H‑1B sponsorship, paving a path to longer‑term US stay.
Time of India
09-06-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Student Visa in the US: How to apply F-1 Visa online, requirements, documents required, fees and other key information
With over a million international students studying in the US, the country remains a top choice for higher education. To join them, understanding the F-1 student Visa process is essential. The F-1 Visa allows non-immigrant students to study full-time at accredited US institutions. This guide covers key details including eligibility criteria, required documentation, SEVIS registration, and interview preparation. It also explains how to maintain your Visa status during your stay, outlines work options like CPT and OPT, and provides tips to avoid common mistakes. Begin your journey with confidence by mastering each step of the F-1 Visa application process. What is US F-1 student Visa The F-1 Visa is a non-immigrant Visa that permits international students to live and study full-time in the United States at SEVP-approved institutions. This includes universities, colleges, high schools, language training programs, and more. You can only apply for an F-1 Visa after receiving an admission offer from a certified US institution. Your duration of stay is defined by the I-20 form, which specifies your program's start and end dates. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Giao dịch vàng CFDs với mức chênh lệch giá thấp nhất IC Markets Đăng ký Undo After graduation, students may apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT), which allows them to work in the US for up to 12 months, with STEM graduates eligible for a 24-month extension. How to apply US student Visa F-1 online Get accepted and receive your I-20 form Your journey begins with acceptance to a SEVP-accredited US university. After your acceptance, you'll be issued an I-20 form, which contains key information: SEVIS ID number Program dates Field of study Financial information Sign your I-20 after verifying the accuracy of all information. This form is essential for the Visa interview and US entry. Pay the SEVIS fee Before scheduling your interview, pay the SEVIS I-901 fee . Save the receipt, as it will be required during your interview. Complete the DS-160 Visa application Submit the DS-160 form online and pay the $185 application fee. After submission, print the confirmation page with the barcode. Schedule your Visa interview Book your interview appointment with your nearest US embassy or consulate. Interview wait times vary, so schedule early. You may consider mock interviews also to help prepare. Attend your Visa interview Be ready to prove: You are a genuine student. You can finance your stay. You plan to return home post-graduation. US F-1 Visa documents required With over a million international students studying in the US, the country remains a top choice for higher education. To join them, understanding the F-1 student Visa process is essential. The F-1 Visa allows non-immigrant students to study full-time at accredited US institutions. Check below the required documents to apply for F-1 Visa: Valid passport I-20 form DS-160 confirmation SEVIS fee receipt Financial documents Academic transcripts and test scores Quick tip 1: Answer honestly and confidently during the interview. US F-1 Visa requirements Before applying for your Visa, make sure you meet the following criteria: SEVP-certified institution: You must be admitted to a US institution certified by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program. Full-time enrollment: Only full-time students are eligible for an F-1 Visa. English proficiency: You need to demonstrate sufficient proficiency or enroll in language courses. Proof of funds: You must show financial ability to support tuition and living expenses. Valid passport: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your program completion date. Intent to return: You must maintain a permanent residence in your home country for post-study return. What to expect during the US F-1 Visa interview The Visa interview is designed to confirm your academic intentions, financial preparedness, and plans post-graduation. You'll meet with a consular officer at your nearest US embassy or consulate. Common interview questions Be prepared to answer the following questions clearly and confidently: Why did you choose this university? Show that you've researched the program and explain how it aligns with your academic or career goals. How will you pay for your education? Provide proof of funding—bank statements, scholarships, or financial aid documents. What are your career plans after graduation? Emphasize your intention to return to your home country and contribute professionally. Do you have relatives in the US? Be honest. This helps assess your ties to home and potential immigration intent. Quick Tip 2: Practice your answers in advance. Bring all necessary documentation (passport, I-20, SEVIS receipt, financial proof, academic transcripts). Stay calm, concise, and truthful. Reasons for US F-1 student Visa denial and how to avoid them Not all F-1 Visa applications are approved. Here are some common reasons for denial: Incomplete or inaccurate documentation Any missing or incorrect paperwork can lead to delays or denial. Double-check your DS-160 form, I-20, financial statements, and transcripts. Lack of financial support If the officer feels you cannot afford your education and living expenses, your Visa may be rejected. Be ready with authentic proof of sufficient funds. Unclear intent to return home F-1 Visas are temporary. If you cannot demonstrate strong ties to your home country like family, property, or a job you may be denied. Quick tip 3: Consult your school's international office to review your application before submission. How to maintain US F-1 Visa status after approval Once you've successfully entered the US on an F-1 Visa, it's vital to follow immigration rules to maintain your legal student status. Key requirements Enter the US no more than 30 days before your program starts. Check in with your school's Designated School Official (DSO) upon arrival and before your program start date. Stay enrolled full-time during your academic terms. Maintain good academic standing throughout your program. Notify your DSO before: Dropping or changing courses Taking a vacation or break Transferring to a different institution Can F-1 international students work in the US Yes, international students on an F-1 Visa are allowed to work in the United States but only under specific conditions set by immigration regulations according to the reports. Key employment rules for F-1 Visa holders During academic terms, students are only permitted to work part-time (up to 20 hours per week) on campus. During scheduled academic breaks, such as summer or winter holidays, students may work full-time, if approved by the university. Off-campus employment is only permitted with authorization from your university and under specific programs like CPT or OPT. Quick tip 4: Always consult your DSO first Before accepting any job—on-campus or off-campus—it is crucial to: Get approval from your school's Designated School Official (DSO). Understand your SEVIS record and Visa compliance responsibilities. Never work without authorization—it can lead to Visa termination and deportation. Plan your next move after graduation Upon completing your degree, you have a 60-day grace period to plan your next move: Choose one of the following: Leave the US and return to your home country. Apply for OPT and work in a field related to your study. Transfer to another SEVP-approved school for further education. Quick tip 5: Start exploring your options early and stay in close contact with your DSO to remain compliant. F-1 study Visa checklist With careful planning, thorough documentation, and the right guidance, obtaining an F-1 Visa can be a smooth process. Whether you're navigating SEVIS fees, scheduling interviews, or preparing for your arrival in the US. Check below a quick checklist to apply for an F-1 Visa in the US. Understand your F-1 Visa conditions Get familiar with employment rules and limitations Obtain DSO approval before accepting any job Prepare for post-graduation decisions in advance Start fulfilling USA study Visa requirements early
India Today
27-05-2025
- Business
- India Today
How are Harvard students coping with Trump's sudden visa order?
When the US government suddenly cancelled Harvard University's SEVP (Student and Exchange Visitor Program) certification, it sent shockwaves through the international student community. Many were left confused, worried, and scrambling to save their education and career plans.'It's been nothing short of destabilising,' says Aritra Ghosal, Founder and Director of One Step Global. 'Students had everything planned out—admissions, housing, finances. And then within 72 hours, everything was turned upside down. It's not just about Harvard. The message to international students is clear: your future here is not guaranteed.'advertisementCAREER DREAMS THROWN OFF TRACKFor many students, this is more than just a temporary glitch—it could change the entire course of their careers. 'Most international students choose the US not just for the degree, but for the global opportunities that come after,' Ghosal adds. 'Losing access to work options like OPT after graduation is not a small issue. It's a huge setback.'What makes it worse, he says, is the uncertainty. 'You don't know if transferring to another school will protect your visa, your credits, or even your chance to work in the U.S. after you graduate." It's like planning your career in the middle of a storm.'ADVISORS STEP IN TO HELP STUDENTS REBUILDAs students try to make sense of these sudden changes, education counsellors are stepping in to help.'When such unexpected changes happen, we act fast to reduce the damage,' says Rozy Efzal, Co-founder and Director at Invest4Edu. 'We first check if the student's visa status is still valid. If needed, we explore transferring them to other SEVP-approved colleges.'advertisementIf that's not possible due to visa delays, Efzal says they help students request deferrals so they don't lose their admission. 'We also tell all our students to have a backup plan—like applying to Canada, the UK, or Australia. That way, they don't lose a whole year if the US route doesn't work out.'The goal, she says, is to keep students legally safe and academically on track—without last-minute FROM COLLEGESWhile some students say Harvard's faculty and student groups have offered emotional support, the practical help has been limited.'Yes, people are checking in, but we're being told to wait and hope,' says Ghosal. 'That's not real support—it's just asking students to manage on their own.'He says what students need is clear communication, quick action, and backup systems that can actually help in a crisis—not just kind HEALTH TAKING A HITBeyond the paperwork and planning, students are struggling emotionally. The sudden policy change has left many feeling hurt and betrayed.'I've seen students panic, break down, and lose sleep,' Ghosal shares. We looked up to the US as a place of opportunity and fairness. Now it feels like we're just pawns in a political game.'This emotional toll is something Ganesh Kohli, Founder of the IC3 Movement, takes seriously. He believes that proper counselling should be part of every student's students face a lot—changing rules, stress, and pressure to make the right choices,' he says. Good counselling isn't a luxury anymore—it's essential. When students feel heard and supported, they can make better decisions about their future.A WORRYING MESSAGE TO THE WORLDExperts warn that these sudden shifts in US policy may push international students to look elsewhere.'We're already seeing students apply to US colleges and also keep backup options abroad,' Efzal says. 'This kind of uncertainty damages trust.'Ghosal agrees. 'If the US wants to keep attracting top talent from around the world, it needs to treat international students as contributors—not just as numbers.'For now, students are holding on, making backup plans, and trying to stay hopeful.'Planning your future shouldn't feel like managing a crisis,' says Ghosal. 'But right now, that's what it's become.'Tune InMust Watch
Time of India
23-05-2025
- Politics
- Time of India
Will U.S deport 10,000 foreign students after Donald Trump's Harvard ban? Here's what you should know
The Trump administration has blocked Harvard University from accepting foreign students. This action puts the future of 6,800 international students in doubt. Out of these, 800 students are from India, as per reports. These students were in the US on F-1 or J-1 visas, but now those visas are in danger since Harvard's certification has been revoked. Without this certification from the Student and Exchange Visitor Program, Harvard can't legally admit foreign students anymore. Students who are about to graduate and get their degrees soon are safe, according to the report by India Today. Students have only 2 options, either join another SEVP-certified university, or face deportation, since they will lose their legal right to stay in the US. The Department of Homeland Security has given Harvard 72 hours to fix the situation. In these 3 days, if Harvard submits 6 specific records, it can get back the ability to enroll foreign students. Harvard Submission of Records Live Events Harvard must submit all of these records from the past 5 years, any records whether it's official or unofficial, including emails, videos, etc., about illegal activity by any non-immigrant student, whether it happened on or off campus. Any records showing dangerous or violent actions by any foreign student, again, on or off campus. All information about threats made by foreign students to other students or university staff. Any record of violating the rights of classmates or university staff by foreign students. Disciplinary records of all non-immigrant students enrolled in the past 5 years. Video or audio of protests on campus involving foreign students in the last 5 years. The Trump administration has been in a dispute with Harvard recently over 'campus antisemitism', and this may be linked to the decision, says reports. FAQs Q1. Will foreign students be deported from Harvard? Only if Harvard doesn't meet U.S. government rules in 72 hours. Q2. Can students transfer to another college? Yes, they can join another SEVP-approved university to stay legally.
Time of India
23-05-2025
- Politics
- Time of India
Homeland Security Secy threatens US universities after Harvard's foreign student ban: 'Get your act together because we are coming'
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem on Thursday issued a stark warning to universities across the country to 'get your act together,' following her decision to revoke Harvard University 's ability to enroll international students . Speaking on Fox News, Noem said, 'This should be a warning to every other university to get your act together because we are coming to make sure that these programs ... are facilitating an environment where students can learn, where they're safe and that they're not discriminated against based on their race or their religion.' Noem accused Harvard of creating a campus atmosphere that promotes violence, antisemitism, and collaboration with the Chinese Communist Party. 'Anti-Semitism will not be stood for, and any participation with a country or an entity or a terrorist group that hates America and perpetuates this kind of violence—we will stop it and we will not allow that to happen, especially in places where our kids need to grow up and really learn what this country is about, what the world is about, and what it means to promote freedom and liberty,' she added. The Department of Homeland Security's move to strip Harvard of its Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) certification impacts nearly 6,800 international students, who must now transfer to other SEVP-approved institutions or risk losing their legal status in the US starting from the 2025–26 academic year. Harvard has called the action unlawful and disruptive to its academic mission. This action is part of a wider campaign by the Trump administration to pressure elite universities into meeting federal demands tied to funding and tax exemptions. Harvard's refusal to curb pro-Palestinian protests and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies led to $2.6 billion in frozen research funding and threats to its tax-exempt status. (Join our ETNRI WhatsApp channel for all the latest updates) Other universities like Columbia have complied with federal demands to restore funding, while several others, including Cornell, Northwestern, Brown, and Princeton, face potential cuts. Faculty members at some institutions have urged administrations to form a joint defense pact against what they see as government overreach. Live Events Legal experts warn this signals a new federal blueprint demanding universities' loyalty to administration policies. As Harvard prepares to challenge the government's moves in court, Noem's warning signals heightened federal scrutiny over campus policies and international student programs nationwide.
