Studying in the United States is a dream for many students around the world, including those from Pakistan. The country offers high-quality education, cutting-edge research opportunities, and cultural diversity, making it one of the most sought-after destinations for international students. To pursue studies in the U.S., Pakistani students must obtain a USA study visa. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the USA study visa process, especially for applicants from Pakistan.

What is a USA Study Visa?

A USA study visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows international students to enter the United States for educational purposes. It is essential for students accepted into U.S. institutions, including universities, colleges, and specialized training programs. There are several types of study visas, each catering to specific academic programs and durations of stay.

Types of USA Study Visas

F-1 Visa (Academic Student Visa)

1. Purpose: The F-1 visa is for students who are attending an academic program or English language program at a U.S. institution.
2. Eligibility: You must be accepted into a SEVP-approved school and enroll as a full-time student in an accredited program.
3. Work Eligibility: F-1 students can work on-campus for up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during school breaks. Off-campus work options include Optional Practical Training (OPT) and Curricular Practical Training (CPT).
4. Typical Schools: Universities, colleges, high schools, private elementary schools, conservatories, and language training programs.
5. Duration: You can stay in the U.S. for the duration of your studies, plus a 60-day grace period. Extensions may be available in certain cases (e.g., OPT for work after graduation).

M-1 Visa (Vocational/Non-Academic Student Visa)

• Purpose: The M-1 visa is for students who want to attend vocational or technical schools in the U.S.
• Eligibility: You must be accepted into a SEVP-approved vocational or technical program, such as training at a technical or trade school.
• Work Eligibility: M-1 visa holders are not allowed to work while studying. In certain cases, they may apply for practical training after completing their program.
• Typical Schools: Technical schools, trade schools, and non-academic institutions.
• Duration: The M-1 visa is typically granted for the length of the program (up to one year), with the possibility of extensions for practical training.

J-1 Visa (Exchange Visitor Visa)

• Purpose: The J-1 visa is for students, scholars, or trainees participating in an exchange program in the U.S. It is also used for other categories, such as professors, researchers, and medical interns.
• Eligibility: You must be accepted into a U.S. government-approved exchange program, such as a student exchange, internship, or research program.
• Work Eligibility: J-1 visa holders may be allowed to work part-time or full-time under certain conditions, often as part of the exchange program itself. The visa may include options for academic training after completing the program.
• Typical Programs: Exchange student programs, internships, teaching, research programs, and medical training.
• Home Residency Requirement: Some J-1 visa holders are subject to a two-year home residency requirement, meaning they must return to their home country for two years after completing the program before they can apply for another visa to return to the U.S.
• Duration: The J-1 visa is valid for the duration of the program. Extensions depend on the program and the U.S. sponsor.

F-2, M-2, and J-2 Visas (Dependent Visas)

Purpose:

These visas are for the dependents (spouses and unmarried children under 21) of F-1, M-1, and J-1 visa holders.

• F-2: For dependents of F-1 students.
• M-2: For dependents of M-1 students.
• J-2: For dependents of J-1 exchange visitors.

Eligibility:

Dependents must apply for the respective dependent visa category based on the primary visa holder’s status.

Work Eligibility:

• F-2 and M-2 dependents are generally not permitted to work.
• J-2 dependents may apply for work authorization while in the U.S.

Study Eligibility:

• F-2 spouses cannot engage in full-time study, but children can attend K-12 schools.
• M-2 dependents may attend school but cannot engage in post-secondary education.
• J-2 dependents may study while in the U.S.

Other Related Visas

B-2 Visa (Visitor Visa for Short-Term Study):

• The B-2 tourist visa can sometimes be used for short-term non-degree courses that last fewer than 18 hours per week. This visa is primarily for visiting the U.S. as a tourist, but it can be used for brief study purposes (like taking a workshop, seminar, or short course).
• Limitations: This visa does not permit full-time or long-term academic study.

USA Study Visa Requirements from Pakistan

Pakistani students need to meet several requirements to be eligible for a USA study visa, including:

• Acceptance to a U.S. school: You must have an official letter of admission from a SEVP-certified institution.
• Form I-20 (for F-1 and M-1 visas): This form is issued by the U.S. institution and proves your acceptance and eligibility.
• SEVIS fee payment: Students must pay the SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) fee.
• Financial proof: Applicants must provide evidence of sufficient funds to cover tuition, living expenses, and other costs.
• Valid passport: Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in the U.S.
• Proof of ties to Pakistan: Evidence that you intend to return to Pakistan after your studies.
• Visa application (DS-160 form): You must complete the DS-160 form online.

Summary of Key Differences

How to Apply for a USA Study Visa from Pakistan

The application process for a USA study visa involves several steps:

1. Receive Form I-20: After acceptance by a U.S. school, receive the Form I-20.
2. Pay the SEVIS fee: Before applying for a visa, you must pay the SEVIS fee, which is mandatory for all F, M, and J visa applicants.
3. Complete the DS-160 form: Fill out the DS-160 online non-immigrant visa application form. Be sure to provide accurate information.
4. Schedule a visa interview: You must schedule an appointment for a visa interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in Pakistan.
5. Prepare for the interview: Gather all required documents, such as financial proof, passport, SEVIS fee receipt, Form I-20, and any other supporting materials.
6. Attend the visa interview: During the interview, a consular officer will determine your eligibility for the USA study visa.

USA Study Visa Fees and Processing Time

The fees for a USA study visa include:

• SEVIS fee: USD $350 (for F and M visas)
• Visa application fee: USD $160

Processing times for USA study visas can vary depending on the time of year and individual cases. Generally, it takes a few weeks to a couple of months from the time of the visa interview to receive a decision.

USA Study Visa Checklist for Pakistani Applicants

Here is a checklist to ensure a smooth USA study visa application process:

• Valid passport
• Form I-20 from a U.S. institution
• Completed DS-160 form
• SEVIS fee receipt
• Visa application fee payment receipt
• Financial proof (bank statements, scholarship letters, etc.)
• Passport-sized photographs
• Academic transcripts and diplomas
• Proof of ties to Pakistan
• Any additional supporting documents required by the U.S. Embassy.

This guide outlines everything Pakistani students need to know about applying for a USA study visa, from types of visas to documentation and application steps, ensuring you’re well-prepared for your academic journey in the U.S.

FAQs

What is an F-1 Visa?

The F-1 visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows foreign students to study full-time at accredited academic institutions in the U.S., such as universities, colleges, high schools, language training programs, and other approved institutions.

What are the eligibility requirements for an F-1 Visa?

• Acceptance by a SEVP (Student and Exchange Visitor Program)-approved school.
• Enrollment in a full-time academic program.
• Proof of sufficient funds to cover tuition, living expenses, and travel.
• Strong ties to your home country (intent to return after completing studies).
• Proficiency in English or enrollment in courses to improve English proficiency.

What documents are required for the F-1 Visa application?

• Valid passport.
• Form I-20 from a SEVP-approved school.
• Non-immigrant visa application (Form DS-160).
• Visa application fee receipt.
• Passport-sized photos.
• Proof of financial support (bank statements, scholarship letters, etc.).
• SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) fee receipt.
• Transcripts, diplomas, or certificates from previous institutions.
  

FAQs

What is the SEVIS fee?

SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) is a tracking system for international students. The SEVIS fee (currently $350 for F-1) must be paid before the visa interview. The SEVIS fee is separate from the visa application fee.

How long can I stay in the U.S. on an F-1 Visa?

You can stay in the U.S. as long as you are enrolled in a full-time program and maintain your F-1 status. After completing your program, you may stay for an additional 60 days, called the grace period, to prepare for departure or apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT).

Can I work on an F-1 Visa?

Yes, but with limitations. F-1 students can work on-campus for up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during vacations. Off-campus work is allowed through Optional Practical Training (OPT) and Curricular Practical Training (CPT), but these require specific authorization.

Do I need health insurance while studying in the U.S.?

Most schools in the U.S. require international students to have health insurance. You can either purchase the school’s plan or provide proof of comparable coverage.

Can I apply for a green card after studying in the U.S.?

While an F-1 visa does not directly lead to a green card, you may apply for a change of status to a work visa (H-1B) or other pathways that could eventually lead to permanent residency.

Can I stay in the U.S. if I finish my studies early?

If you complete your program early, you still have the 60-day grace period to leave the U.S. or change your status.