Study Abroad

How to Get a Student Visa for Norway

<BODY readability="2">If you plan to spend some time studying in Norway, you may need to apply for a student visa – or rather a ‘student residence permit’. Find out what requirements you need to meet, and how to apply.Students from Iceland, Denmark, Sweden or Finland do not need a student visa for Norway, and do not need to register with the police. However, if you plan to study in Norway for more than six months, you must report to a tax office in Norway for an ID check and to report your move to Norway.Students from nations within the European Economic Area (EEA) and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) can also study in Norway for more than three months without applying for a student visa. You simply need to register with the police online, and then go in person to the nearest police station once you arrive, to present the relevant documents showing your basis for residence. You will need to show: your passport, confirmation of admission to an approved educational institution, private health insurance or European health insurance card, and a personal declaration of sufficient funds to support yourself while you study in Norway.You also do not need to apply for a student visa if you fulfill one of the other exemptions to the visa requirement, as listed on the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI) website.All other students will need to apply for a student residence permit if they intend to study in Norway for more than three months. If you are studying in Norway for less than three months, and you come from a country with a visa requirement for entering Norway, you will still need to obtain a visa. Requirements and procedures for obtaining a student residence permit will depend on your country of origin.In order to be granted a student visa for Norway, you must have been admitted to a field of study at a college or university (with some exemptions). While some candidates can apply online from within Norway or through a Norwegian embassy, most students will need to hand in a paper application form to their closest Norwegian embassy or consulate. Some countries will ask you to hand in the application at the Swedish or Danish embassy instead. When you hand in your student residence permit application form, you must also provide your passport, along with other necessary documentation. You’ll need to submit:A completed application formReceipt of having paid the application feeA valid travel document (passport)A recent photographEvidence of admittance to an approved full-time education programEvidence of sufficient financial funds for the entire period of study, including funds to support any accompanying family (it can be difficult to open an account in a Norwegian bank without a Norwegian personal number, so you can usually deposit the required amount into an account established by your educational institution)Evidence that you have somewhere to live (such as a house, apartment, bedsit or room in a hall of residence)Evidence that you will leave Norway when your residence permit expires (usually in the form of a return ticket)Processing times for student residence permits will vary, so it is advisable to apply as soon as you are able. If your application is granted, you must then obtain a residence card – proof that you have the right to live in Norway. Typically, you will receive a letter that informs you to visit the police to have your fingerprints and photo taken, after which you will be sent the card by post.When you are granted a Norwegian student residence permit, you are also granted a permit to work part-time in addition to your studies (up to 20 hours per week) and full-time during university holidays, at no extra charge. You can renew your study permit through the online Application Portal Norway at least one month before it expires, but you must contact the UDI separately to renew the part-time work permit, and show evidence of having made satisfactory progress studying in Norway.You can apply for a permit to work full-time for a limited period if you can prove that the work is relevant to your studies, or necessary for admission to further education within the same program option – a concrete offer of employment must be made in this case.Having completed your studies, you are eligible to apply for a residence permit for up to six months in which to seek employment as a skilled worker. You must be able to prove you have become qualified as a skilled worker during your time studying in Norway, or that you had specialist training before your stay in Norway and then undertook further education in Norway. You must also meet the requirements to be able to provide financial support for yourself (and your family).Read more about studying in Norway >

How to Get a Student Visa for Norway

If you plan to spend some time studying in Norway, you may need to apply for a student visa – or rather a ‘student residence permit’. Find ...

7:17 PM

How to Get a UK Student Visa

<BODY readability="10">Want to study in the UK? Find out whether you need to apply for a UK student visa, and how the application process works.UK visa requirements and general immigration criteria are managed by the UK Border Agency (UKBA), which has an easy-to-navigate site to help you determine whether you need a UK student visa. While Swiss nationals and those from the EU/European Economic Area (EEA) states are treated as home students in the UK, all other international students are likely to need a visa to study in the UK.If you’re doing a short course or an 11-month English language course, and are over 18 years old, you may be eligible for the student visitor visa. This is valid up to 6 months for short courses and can be extended for a stay of up to 11 months for English language courses. If you’re doing a longer course, you’ll need to make sure your chosen institution is on the UKBA list of trusted sponsors. You can either apply for a Tier 4 (Child) student visa (if you’re aged 4-17) or a Tier 4 (General) student visa for those aged 18 and over.You may also apply for entry to the UK as a prospective student. To do this you must prove you have been in touch with some UK universities. This visa will be valid for six months, during which time you may study – though it is advisable to upgrade to a full student visa sooner rather than later.UK student visa requirements<img alt="" class="media-image media-image-right" height="338" src="/UK20Student20Visa20Image201.jpg" title="" typeof="foaf:Image" width="508">Your course provider may be willing to help you to apply for a UK student visa once you have been offered a place on a course, so it’s always worth asking. You can apply for the visa up to three months in advance of the start date of your course. Make sure to allow plenty of time, as average visa processing times may vary.UK student visas are awarded on a points-based system. In order to meet all the UK student visa requirements, you’ll need to provide: Details of your passportA recent photographA 'Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies’ (CAS) form from your course provider (worth 30 points)Proof of adequate English language skills, through one of the UKBA-approved English language tests (or perhaps through an alternate test or Skype interview with your course provider)Proof you have financial support throughout your stay in the UK (worth 10 points)This proof of financial support can take the form of bank statements or a letter from your financial sponsor, showing you can cover your tuition fees, accommodation and living costs. You may be required to show you have a budget of at least ?800-1,000 (US$1,320-1,650) per month.You may also be required to produce documents showing your academic qualifications, and to attend an interview or biometric test, which includes a digital scan of your fingerprints. Depending on your country of origin, you may also be required to have certain medical vaccinations.Using your UK student visaWhen you enter the UK, a UK Border Agency officer will put a stamp on your passport that states the duration of your stay in the UK. You cannot extend your stay beyond this period. Before you arrive, you must make sure you are fully immunized, remembering to pack your immunization record in your hand luggage in case you are asked to show the Border Agency officer at your UK port of entry.While UK student visitor visa holders and prospective student visa holders are not allowed to work in the UK, Tier 4 student visa holders can work a certain amount of hours per week in the holiday periods.Read more about studying in the UK >

How to Get a UK Student Visa

Want to study in the UK? Find out whether you need to apply for a UK student visa, and how the application process works. UK visa requireme...

7:52 AM

How to Get a Student Visa for Belgium

<BODY readability="6">If you’re hoping to study in Belgium, you may need to apply for a visa, depending on where you’re from and the length of your course. Find out if you need a student visa for Belgium, how to apply, and what documents you’ll be asked for.Students from a European Union Member State or from a country in the European Economic Area (EEA) are not required to obtain a student visa in order to study in Belgium. They are, however, required to carry a national identity card, which they must present to the customs officer on arrival to Belgium. If you are a student from the EU, you must still fulfill certain criteria to study in Belgium, which include:Enrollment at an approved university/educational institution,Sufficient income to live in Belgium without needing income support,Comprehensive health cover.If you are a citizen of a country that does not belong to the EU, you may need a student visa to gain entry to Belgium. Students from some countries (such as the US) are not required to obtain a visa for Belgium if their stay is no longer than 90 days.Students from the People’s Republic of China must obtain an academic evaluation certificate issued by the Academic Assessment Centre (APS) before being authorized to enroll in a higher education institution in Belgium. This APS certificate is required to obtain a student visa for Belgium. The examination consists of a technical assessment of your diploma and an interview. In certain cases, you can be exempted from this interview.How can you apply for a student visa for Belgium?<img alt="" class="media-image media-image-right" height="337" src="/How20to20apply20student20visa20Belgium.jpg" title="" typeof="foaf:Image" width="508">Before applying for a student visa for Belgium, you first need to be accepted onto a course at an accredited educational institution, and pay the registration fees (this will be refunded if your visa application is rejected). If you are an international student, you will then need to contact your nearest Belgian embassy or consulate in your country. The embassy will help you determine whether you need a student visa, and will guide you through the visa application.All the information concerning Belgian visa applications can be found on the website of the Foreigners Department of the Federal Public Service (FPS) for Home Affairs, available to read in French, Dutch and English. As an international student, you’ll need to apply for a national long-stay visa (D visa), which allows you to stay longer than 90 days in Belgium.The procedure to obtain a visa for Belgium varies depending on the Belgian consulate or embassy you use. In general, however, you’ll need to fill in a visa application form and submit an application fee along with all the required documents (see below). Applicants from some countries may need to make an appointment with their consulate or embassy in order to make their application. It is also possible that some consulates may work with an external service provider who carries out most of the administration tasks – an additional service fee will be charged in this case.What are the student visa requirements for Belgium?<img alt="" class="media-image media-image-right" height="338" src="/Student20visa20requirements20Belgium.jpg" title="" typeof="foaf:Image" width="507">To fulfill student visa requirements for Belgium, you’ll need to provide the following documents:A completed and signed visa application form (you may need to bring more than one)A passport or similar travel document valid for more than 12 months. In some countries it’s required for the passport to be no more than 10 years old, and have two empty consecutive pages facing each other.Proof that you have sufficient financial income or support for the duration of your stay. This must cover your healthcare, living, study and accommodation costs as well as the cost of your return ticket. This can be in the form of a certificate stating you have received a grant or scholarship, an agreement of financial responsibility from your sponsor, or your personal bank statement showing sufficient funds.A medical certificate stating you don’t carry any diseases that may endanger public health (such as TB, diseases that require quarantine and other infectious diseases)A police certificate of good conduct confirming that you don’t have any prior convictions (if you are aged over 21). If you’re from the US, you’ll probably need an FBI background check, which can take up to five months to obtain.Student visa requirements for Belgium also include proof of your student status and study plans. For this, you may need:Proof of registration at a recognized higher education institution in Belgium (must cover a full-time course of study, suggesting that the candidate’s main activity in Belgium is studying)Application for an equivalence certificate for a diploma or certificate conferred abroad (only required for French Community education)Original and certified copy of your diploma, certificate or baccalaureate from your secondary education, and the academic record from your last year of secondary educationCopy of all diplomas and certificates obtained since the end of your secondary educationAn employer’s statement underlining the necessary for you to pursue higher education as part of your work (more likely to apply to postgraduate students)Documentation giving a brief description of the courses organized by your institution of choice, with a short explanation comparing those courses to courses organized in your country of originAll documents in a language other than German, French, English or Dutch must be translated by a sworn translator, legalized as a separate document in your country of origin, and legalized again by the Belgian consulate or embassy you go to. Your consulate or embassy may ask for other documents not mentioned here, depending on your country of origin.You will also need to provide a supporting letter explaining why you have chosen the particular course, why you have chosen to study in Belgium, and how your choices will benefit you. You must demonstrate that you have sufficient knowledge of the language in which you intend to study, by providing either proof of passing an internationally recognized language proficiency exam or a certificate issued at the end of education in your chosen language.You can track your visa application using your reference number and the location of your chosen consulate or embassy. The Belgian consulate or embassy considers visa applications on a case-by-case basis and has the exclusive decision to accept or refuse your visa. You may appeal against this decision if you wish.If the embassy or consulate you have applied to is unable to process your student visa application for some reason, they may suggest you apply for a tourist visa, which is easier for them to issue. If so, make sure they give you a written statement showing that they advised you to apply for a tourist visa, as this statement will allow you to exchange your tourist visa for a student visa once you’re in Belgium, and allow you to register at your chosen higher education institution.All students (including those from the EU) must go to the local municipal administration within eight days of arrival in Belgium. You will then be issued with a residence permit which allows you to stay in Belgium and also allows you entrance to the Schengen States without a visa for a period not exceeding three months. You can apply to renew your residence permit yearly, approximately 30 to 45 days before its expiry date.Read more about studying in Belgium >

How to Get a Student Visa for Belgium

If you’re hoping to study in Belgium , you may need to apply for a visa, depending on where you’re from and the length of your course. Find...

8:14 PM

Types of US Student Visa

<BODY readability="12">If you’re planning to study abroad in the US – either for a full degree or a shorter period – you’ll need to apply for a US student visa. Here’s a quick guide to the three types of non-immigrant student visas for studying in the US.This type of US student visa is for international students who are intending to pursue an academic degree at an accredited US college or university, or to study English at a university or intensive English language institute. There are three types of F visa:F-1 visas for full-time students.F-2 visas for dependents of F-1 visa holders (spouse and unmarried children under the age of 21). This includes same-sex married couples.F-3 visas for ‘border commuters’ – Mexican and Canadian students who reside in their country of origin while attending part- or full-time school in the US.Students with F-1 visas can work on-campus for 20 hours a week or less. Students wishing to work longer hours and off-campus must gain prior authorization from the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) – they may also grant work authorization for Curricular Practical Training (CPT) and Optional Practical Training (OPT) for a total of twelve months, without accruing more than 90 days of unemployment.The second category of US student visa is for international students who want to engage in non-academic or vocational study or training at an institution in the US. There are three types of M visa:M-1 visas for students engaging in vocational or non-academic studies.M-2 visas for dependents of M-1 visa holders (as in F-2 visas).M-3 visas for ‘border commuters’ as in F-3 visas, but for vocational or non-academic studies.M-1 students are admitted to the US for a fixed time period – the length of their training program plus any Optional Practical Training. They must not stay in the US for longer than one year except in the case of extensions due to medical reasons. M-1 visa holders are not allowed to work on- or off-campus while studying and may not change their status to F-1.Finally, this third type of US student visa is for international exchange visitors participating in programs in the US that promote cultural exchange. Whether it is to obtain medical, business or other training, all applicants must meet the eligibility criteria of the program in question and be sponsored by a private sector or government program. Holders of J visas usually stay in the US for a short period of time, perhaps one or two semesters. There are two types of J visa:J-1 visas for exchange students on a relevant exchange program.J-2 visas for dependents of J-1 visa holders (as for F-2 visas)J-1 visa holders will be subject to the two-year home-country physical presence (foreign residence) requirement if they are part of a government-funded exchange program, doing graduate medical educational or training or if their training is listed in the Exchange Visitor Skills list (i.e. the J-1 visa holder’s home-country has deemed their field of specialized knowledge or skills as necessary to the development of the country). This requirement means J-1 visa holders will need to return to their home country for at least two years at the end of their exchange visitor program.Holders of F-2, M-2 and J-2 visas are also allowed to study in the US provided they meet their chosen institution’s criteria. They do not have to apply for an F-1, M-1 or J-1 visa, but can apply if qualified.J-2 visa holders can enroll as recreational or degree-seeking students, either full- or part-time, and discontinue their program at any time. They can also petition for a change to F-1 student status if they haven’t completed their academic program by the time the principle J-1’s status has ended. However, this is only if the J-1 visa holder is not subject to the two-year home residency requirement.F-2 and M-visa holders are not allowed to work, and must secure an appropriate work visa if seeking employment. J-2 visa holders may request work authorization from USCIS by submitting form I-765.Read more about the US student visa application process >

Types of US Student Visa

If you’re planning to study abroad in the US – either for a full degree or a shorter period – you’ll need to apply for a US student visa . ...

8:42 AM

How to Get a Canadian Student Visa

<BODY readability="8"><img alt="" height="147" src="/Canada20student20visa.jpg" title="" typeof="foaf:Image" width="220">In order to study in Canada, you will need to obtain a Canadian study permit, which serves as a Canadian student visa for the duration of your stay. You do not need a Canadian study permit if your course or program lasts six months or less. Nonetheless, it may be a good idea to apply for a permit before you come to Canada anyway – otherwise if you decide you want to continue your studies in another program, you’ll need to leave Canada to apply for a study permit through a visa office.Once you have a Canadian study permit, you can apply to renew it from within Canada if you decide to continue your studies. For full-time students registered at an accredited higher education institution, a study permit also allows you to work part-time on campus. You may also be able to work off-campus, work as a co-op or intern as part of your program, stay in Canada as a permanent resident or find work after you graduate.You can apply for a Canadian study permit either online or through a paper application, which can be obtained from the Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) website. Paper applications typically take about twice as long, and it’s always recommended to check the processing times well in advance. To apply online, you’ll need a credit/debit card and the ability to create electronic copies of your supporting documents (i.e. using a scanner or camera). The visa office in your country will provide specific instructions about which documents you need to provide; this can vary depending on your location. If you need assistance, you can get help at your nearest visa application center (VAC).The process for obtaining a Canadian student visa is as follows:You must first obtain a standardized letter of acceptance from a recognized higher education provider. Students studying in Quebec must also apply for a certificate of acceptance, known as a CAQ, from the government of Quebec. You must acquire this before you are permitted to apply for a study permit. You can get this online, by printing out a form, or by requesting a paper form from your university, which will also provide advice on this subject.The next stage is to get a Canadian student visa application package, either from the CIC website or by contacting your local visa office, or the Canadian embassy or consulate in your home country. You may also need to obtain a temporary residence permit if you are from a designated country (find out if you need to get one here), but this will not complicate matters too much as it’ll be processed at the same time as your study permit application.In order to get your application package you’ll need to answer a few questions about yourself on the CIC website. These questions will determine whether you are eligible to apply online for a Canadian student permit.If you are found eligible, you will receive a personal checklist code, valid for 60 days, which you will need in order to submit your application online. Make sure to print out the page containing your code for future reference. The page will also include an application guide, an estimated tuition fees amount, a list of documents you will need to submit with your application, and guidelines for your next steps.When you are ready to apply, create a MyCIC account, where you will enter your personal checklist code. You will then receive your personal document checklist which allows you to upload and send your documents to CIC.Once you have your documents and application form ready and have paid your fees, you can submit your completed application to CIC.Some applicants may have to attend an interview at their local visa office.Some or all of the following additional Canadian student visa requirements may also apply:Applicants from certain countries will need to provide biometrics (photograph and fingerprints).Some applicants may also need to get a medical exam and/or police check before submitting their application. You will not be able to get a study permit if you have a criminal record – you may be asked to provide a Police Clearance Certificate as proof.Unless you’re from the US, St. Pierre and Miquelon, or Greenland, you will need to prove you have a valid passport which allows you to return to your country of origin after your course is complete. Two passport-sized pictures are also required, with your name and date of birth written on the back.Canadian student visa requirements also include proof of funds to support yourself. At present this is deemed to be C$10,000 (US$9,400) for every year of your stay (C$11,000/US$10,350 if you’re applying to study in Quebec) on top of your tuition fees. You will also need to make sure you have enough money to pay for transportation to return home.To prove you have this money, you can provide any of the following documents: bank statements, evidence of a Canadian account in your name if the money’s been transferred, a bank draft in a convertible currency, proof of payment of tuition and accommodation fees, a letter from a person or institution providing you with money, or proof of funding paid from within Canada if you have a scholarship or are undertaking a Canadian-funded program.If and when your Canadian student visa application is approved, you’ll receive a letter of introduction, and a temporary residence visa if required. Present these along with your passport, proof of your finances and your letter of acceptance (and any other documents that you’ve been advised to take) to the border control agency in Canada, who will then issue your Canadian study permit and allow you access into Canada.Read more about studying in Canada >

How to Get a Canadian Student Visa

In order to study in Canada, you will need to obtain a Canadian study permit , which serves as a Canadian student visa for the duration of...

10:41 PM

How to Get a US Student Visa

<BODY readability="18">If you want to study in the US and are not a US citizen you will need to obtain a student visa. Applying for a US student visa can be a long process, so make sure you start preparing well in advance – at least three to five months before your course is due to start.In general, prospective students will go through five stages when applying for a US student visa:Apply to and be accepted by a Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-approved school in the US (six to twelve months prior to US study);Pay the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) fee;Complete a US student visa application along with recent photo(s);Pay the visa application fee;Schedule and attend a visa interview.As well as making sure your chosen course matches your interests and ambitions,  as an international student you also need to ensure you choose an institution and program accredited by the US government’s Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP).Accreditation is important as it ensures your degree is recognized by other universities, professional associations, employers and government ministries worldwide. Only SEVP-approved institutions that can enroll students in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) and provide you with the documents necessary to apply for a US student visa. Use the Study in the States website to search for accredited institutions.Unlike countries like the UK and China, the US does not have a centralized university application system, so you will need to apply to each institution you are interested in separately. You’ll need to fulfill each institution’s admissions requirements and usually also present proof of sufficient financial resources.Once you have been accepted by an institution, the university will enroll you in the SEVIS system and you will be sent a SEVIS-generated document called a Form I-20 if you are eligible for an F or M visa, or a Form DS-2019 if you are eligible for a J visa.The SEVP manages international students in the F and M visa classifications, while the Department of State (DoS) manages Exchange Visitor Programs and international students on J visa classifications. Both SEVP and DoS use the centralized SEVIS to track and monitor institutions, exchange visitor programs and international students.You must pay the SEVIS fee at least three days prior to submitting an application for a US visa. In order to pay the fee you’ll need to file a form either online or in paper form. Both can be accessed through the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) SEVP website. Take care to ensure you input the required details exactly as they appear on your I-20 or DS-2019 form.At the time of writing the I-901 fee is US$200 for F/M visa holders and $180 for J student visa holders. J visa holders working as camp counselors, au pairs or in summer work/travel pay $35 instead. The website details procedures for different types of payment including debit or credit card, check, international money order and through Western Union Quick Pay. Having paid the fee you can return to the website to check on your payment status if desired. A third party can also pay the fee for you (such as your sponsor). If the fee is paid on your behalf you should receive a receipt from that third party.You can obtain and print a payment confirmation from the website at any time after processing your payment. You’ll need this confirmation as proof of fee payment at your US student visa interview. You may also be required to show the confirmation to the customs officer at your chosen US Port of Entry, if ever you change your non-immigrant status, or if you’re applying for any other US immigration benefits.Once you have received your SEVIS form and paid the SEVIS fee, you can make an appointment with a US consulate or embassy in your country for a US student visa application. It’s best to apply as early as possible, regardless of when your program is due to start, as visa processing times can vary. Your visa can be issued up to 120 days before you’re due to enter the US.Most countries have their own dedicated website for everything to do with making a US student visa application, which can be accessed from this main page. If you cannot find your country in the list, you may still be able to find the US embassy or consulate in your country using the US embassies website.There are usually several steps to apply for a US student visa. These steps vary at each US embassy or consulate so it’s important to consult the instructions available on the embassy or consulate website where you intend to apply.In all cases you’ll need to complete the online visa application form DS-160. You’ll need to select the location from which you wish to apply and ensure you have all the documents and information you need to fill in the application. After selecting and answering a security question, you’ll be taken to the pages of the form. At the top you’ll find your Application ID. You’ll need this ID to retrieve your form if you need to exit the application and return to it later.Personal details you’ll need to complete the DS-160 form include:name and date of birthaddress and phone numberpassport detailsdetails of travel and travel companionsdetails of previous US traveldetails about your point of contact in the USfamily, work and education detailssecurity, background and medical health informationSEVIS ID and address of school/program you intend to study at in the US (as printed on I-20 or DS-2019 form)You’ll also need to upload a suitable recent photo of yourself in the format explained in the photograph requirements. If your photo upload fails you’ll need to take a printed photograph meeting the requirements with you to your visa interview.Take care to answer all the questions accurately and fully as you may have to reschedule your visa interview appointment if you make any errors, causing unnecessary delays. If you get confused when filling in the application form you may find answers to any questions you may have on the travel.state.gov website.Once everything is filled in, you’ll need to electronically sign your DS-160 by clicking the “Sign Application” button at the end of the form. After your application is uploaded you’ll be sent a confirmation page with a barcode, barcode number and your application ID number which you’ll need to print out and take with you to your visa interview appointment. You do not need to print out and take the full application.The visa application fee is also called the Machine Readable Visa Fee, so you may see it referred to in acronym form as an ‘MRV fee’. Make sure to review the fee payment instructions available on your embassy or consulate website as methods may vary. In general, however, there are three ways to pay the non-refundable, non-transferrable visa application fee:1. In personCreate a user account online and follow the flow of the website, filling in details, until you arrive at the payment page. Print out your DS-160 confirmation page, your deposit slip and your visa interview appointment confirmation receipt and present these to a bank teller at an approved bank (you can find details of approved banks using your country’s US embassy or consulate website).You’ll need to log into your online application profile to print and fill in the applicable US visa fee deposit slip. It must have the MRV Fee Receipt Number on it. Take note of the expiration date on the slip: you’ll need to generate a new deposit slip using the website if it expires before you can get to a bank. Upon receiving your payment the bank teller will issue you a receipt which you must keep safe.2. Via phoneAs above, create a user account online and follow the flow of the website, filling in details, until you arrive at the payment page. Call the appropriate number and follow instructions on the automated voice system to pay by card over the phone. Once you have paid the fee and your transaction has been approved, you’ll be given a fee confirmation number. Make sure to note this number down as you won’t be able to retrieve it later.3. OnlineAgain, create a user account online and follow the flow of the website, filling in details, until you arrive at the payment page. Methods of payment include electronic bank transfer and debit/credit card. Make sure to download and print the receipt when you pay online as you’ll need to take it to your visa interview.The cost of a visa application fee is determined by the type of visa for which you are applying. At the time of writing, fees for the non-petition-based F, M and J visas are US$160.During your research don’t worry if you come across the term ‘visa issuance fee based on reciprocity’ – this does not apply for F1, F2, M1, M2, J1 and J2 visa applicants.You’ll be asked for the MRV fee receipt when you get to your visa interview appointment. Some J visa applicants will not need to pay application processing fees if participating in a US Agency for International Development (USAID) program or a federally-funded educational and cultural exchange program with a program serial number beginning G-1, G-2, G-3 or G-7.The final step in getting a US student visa is to arrange and attend a visa interview. You can again do this either online or using the phone, by calling your nearest US embassy or consulate. In either case, you should complete the MRV fee payment first, as you may need to give your MRV fee number.The visa application process cannot be completed until you appear for an interview with a consular officer. Don’t worry if you need to schedule your interview appointment at a different US embassy or consulate than the one for which you used to apply for your visa. The barcode from your DS-160 can be used to retrieve your information in any US embassy or consulate. However, be aware that it may be difficult to qualify for a visa if you apply outside your place of permanent residence. Wait times for visa interview appointments vary by location, season and visa category.Check the website of the embassy or consulate where you will apply to make sure you have all the required documents needed for your interview. These documents may include:Passport valid for at least six months beyond your period of stay in the US. If more than one person is included in your passport, each person who needs a visa must submit a separate application. You may also need to bring all your current and old passports.Signed SEVIS Form I-20 or DS-2019 (including individual forms for spouse/children).Form DS-7002 (for J-1 Trainee and Intern visa applicants only)SEVIS fee receiptDS-160 application confirmation page with barcode and application ID numberMRV fee payment confirmation receiptPrinted copy of visa interview appointment letter1-2 photographs in the format explained in the photograph requirements. Should be printed on photo quality paper.You should also be prepared to provide the following documents:Transcripts and diplomas from previous institutions attendedScores from standardized tests required by the educational institution such as the TOEFL, LSAT, GRE, GMAT, etc.Financial evidence showing you or your sponsor (i.e. parents or a government sponsor) has sufficient funds to cover your tuition, travel and living expenses during your stay in the US.You can also bring along a separate written list of all your previous employers and schools you have attended for reference.Any derivative visa applicants will need to take:A copy of the marriage and/or birth certificate for proof of relationshipA copy of the principal applicant’s visa (i.e. F-1, M-1, J-1), or official documentation from the USCIS that the principal applicant is in Status.A copy of the personal data page from the principle applicant’s passports.It’s important to be on time for your visa interview – late applicants may be asked to reschedule for another day. In most cases only applicants with a scheduled appointment will be admitted inside the US embassy or consulate. Exceptions include a parent for children under 18, translators, and assistants for the disabled – you’ll need to contact your chosen embassy or consulate to give them the name of the parent, translator or assistant who will accompany you.The purpose of the visa interview is for the consular officer to determine whether you are qualified to receive a US student visa and, if so, which visa category is appropriate for you. Be prepared to answer questions regarding ties to your home country, your English language skills, your academic background, the program in the US to which you have been admitted, and proof of your financial resources. You may also be asked to explain your plans for when your studies are finished.Ink-free, digital fingerprint scans will be taken as part of your application process. This usually happens at your visa interview and you’re required to ensure, as much as possible, that you don’t have cuts or blisters on your fingers and thumbs at the time. You will be directed to read a statement with wording along these lines: “By submitting my fingerprint, I am certifying under penalty of perjury that I have read and understood the questions in my visa application and all the statements that appear in the application have been made by me and are true and completed to the best of my knowledge and belief. I will also tell the truth during my interview.” Then your fingerprint will be electronically scanned.After your interview the consular officer will tell you if your application requires further administrative processing – this can mean additional time for you to wait to receive your visa. Wait times will vary depending on country. You will also be informed how and when your passport with the visa will be returned to you (usually pick-up or delivery by courier). In some countries the courier company will send you an email with a tracking number which you can use to track the delivery of your passport.F-1 and M-1 visas can be issued up to 120 days in advance of your study start date, but you will not be allowed to enter the US earlier than 30 days before your start date. J-1 visas can be issued at any time. If you want to enter the US before these 30 days, you must qualify for and obtain a visitor visa. The 30 day limitation does not apply to students returning to resume studies – they may enter the US at any time provided they have a valid visa.As there is no guarantee you will be issued a visa, do not make final travel plans or buy tickets until you have a visa. You may also do well to read through the pamphlet outlining Non-Immigrant Rights, Protections and Resources before your departure. Be aware that a valid visa does not guarantee entry into the US: it only allows you to travel to a US port-of-entry and request permission to enter the US. Permission to enter is given by a Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Customs and Border Protection (CBP) official.Always carry your visa-related documents in your hand luggage, as you’ll need to be able to present the documents at your port of entry. Documents you should keep with you include:PassportSEVIS Form I-20 or DS-2019Evidence of financial resourcesEvidence of student status (such as recent tuition receipts and transcripts)Name and contact information for your Designated School Official (DSO), including a 24-hour emergency contact number at your chosen institution.If you’re an exchange student: Letter from your home university stating your intent to return to your home university.You must have your Form I-20/DS-2019 every time you enter the US – if you take a vacation outside of the US you will need the SEVIS form to re-enter the country.Arrival in the USOn arrival at the US airport you may need to fill in a Customs Declaration form (CF-6059). You will also be presented with an Arrival/Departure Record I-94 form, either electronically or in paper form. Your US student visa is valid until the date shown on your visa. The CBP officer will record a separate date or “D/S” (duration of status) on your I-94 form. This is the date by which you must leave the US. You may stay in the US until this date even if your visa expires during your stay. However, if you depart the US with an expired visa, you will need to obtain a new one before being able to return and resume your studies. A student visa cannot be renewed or re-issued in the US; it must be done at a US embassy or consulate abroad.If you are given a paper I-94 form, the date will be noted on the paper. If you are given an electronic I-94, the CBP officer will provide an admission stamp on your passport which serves as proof of your electronic I-94 and write the D/S on the stamp.If you are given a paper I-94 form make sure to keep it safe in your passport as you’ll need to return it to a CBP official when you leave the US. If you have an electronic I-94, a CBP official will instead record your departure using manifest information obtained from the air or sea carrier with which you are travelling.You should report to the office in your institution responsible for assisting international students within 30 days of your course start date which appears on your SEVIS I-20/DS-2019 form. The office may be called the Office of International Services, the Office of International Education, the International Programs Office, or the like. A Designated School Official will validate your intended participation by reporting your arrival to the SEVIS system. This must be done within the 30 days or your record on SEVIS will be automatically terminated and you may be considered to be in violation of your status in the US.The DSO will also be available to advise you on matters such as insurance. As the US does not have a social health care system, it will almost certainly be a requirement of enrolment at your US institution that you provide proof of having purchased private health insurance to cover you for medical treatment.F-1 visa holders may remain in the US for an additional 60 days following the completion of their course, while M-1 and J-1 visa holders can only remain an additional 30 days following the completion of their course. This is called a ‘grace period’ and allows the applicant to prepare for their departure from the US.All students, however, must depart before the date on their I-94 form/stamp. Failure to depart the US will cause you to be out-of-status. Being out-of-status in the US is a violation of immigration laws, and may cause you to be ineligible for a visa in the future. If you wish to extend your stay you’ll need approval by USCIS. If you’re a continuing student you may renew your visa at any time as long as you have maintained your student status and have current SEVIS records.Read more about studying abroad in the US >You haven?t said ANYTHING about RIDICULOUS visa rejections. "ridiculous" is the word that the chancellor of the university told me when I said to him/her that my visa was rejected after the second time for no reason! Separate from those expenses I paid for applications, documents, attestations, etc., I paid more than 500$ for visa interviews and NOTHING. The chancellor just said, "I?m sorry, I am so sorry, I know how the visa officers behave and it is just ridiculous and unacceptable the way they behave." How about that?! I?m glad I didn?t make it to such country.

How to Get a US Student Visa

If you want to study in the US and are not a US citizen you will need to obtain a student visa. Applying for a US student visa can be a lo...

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Finding a University Abroad: First Steps

<BODY readability="20">If you've decided you want to study abroad but haven't really got further than that, read our guide to making those all-important first steps.There is no one size that fits all when it comes to university, so it’s important you consider your own priorities, interests and abilities first.What are your reasons for studying abroad? What are your priorities in a university? What languages are you comfortable in and what are your longer-term study or professional objectives?Are there any academic or cultural considerations more important to you? Have you got strong extra-curricular interests? What kind of lifestyle do you want?And of course, how are you going to finance your studies? Do you need to search for a more affordable study destination, or find a university which offers financial assistance?Armed with a vision of what you are aiming for, you need to set about researching countries, universities and courses on offer. There's no single list of all the thousands of universities in the world, but there are a few places you can start - including international and regional rankings. If you know what subject you want to study, the QS World University Rankings by Subject may also be useful.Fundamental to studying abroad must be the desire to spend time in another country. If you can shortlist or identify your country, then you have a starting point for identifying possible universities to apply to.Once you have selected a list of countries, you can identify some of the national organizations, such as UCAS in the UK, who can point you in the right direction for providers of scholarships and further information to refine your search.When searching worldwide for a university that is right for you, there is no substitute for coming face-to-face with people from that university. Clearly it will often not be feasible to actually visit the university before applying. However, each university has an alumni association, often with an international network, so try to identify alumni who may be willing and able to meet you closer to home and give you that all-important feel of what it’s like to actually study at their university.The QS World University Tour and World Grad School Tour also provide opportunities to meet a broad selection of university representatives from around the world, in a location close to you.Finally, essential to finding the university and course which are right for you is to keep an open mind. Identify your priorities, research your options and talk to people - but always stay open to new suggestions, just in case there's something you missed. You are about to embark on one of the most exciting and important experiences of your life. Let the search begin!please i want to get admission into university of finland or norway universities,how can i get student visa and application form from the schools? i will be expecting your replies thanks for your corporation

Finding a University Abroad: First Steps

If you've decided you want to study abroad but haven't really got further than that, read our guide to making those all-important ...

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