Become an International Student in the United States
A step-by-step guide to researching schools, choosing a visa type, applying, and arriving on campus — plus how today's decisions affect your post-graduation options.
Educational information only. Not legal advice. Consult a qualified immigration attorney for your specific situation. Full disclaimer
Already a student in the United States?
This section is for prospective students planning to come to the U.S. If you are already enrolled, see our post-graduation immigration pathways — covering H-1B, EB-1A, EB-1B, EB-2 NIW, O-1, OPT, and J-1.
Your 12-Step Journey
Start 12-18 months before your intended enrollment date. Each step links to a detailed guide page.
Research Schools and Programs
12-18 months before enrollment
Identify U.S. institutions that offer your intended program of study, are SEVP-certified, and align with your post-graduation goals. Focus on STEM CIP code designations, faculty research strengths, and employer connections in your field.
Understand Visa Types (F-1, J-1, M-1)
12+ months before enrollment
Learn the differences between F-1 academic student, J-1 exchange visitor, and M-1 vocational student visas. The visa type you choose today directly determines your post-graduation work authorization options and green card pathways.
Verify SEVP School Certification
Before applying to schools
Confirm that every school you apply to is certified by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP). Only SEVP-certified schools can issue the Form I-20 required for your F-1 or M-1 visa application. This is non-negotiable.
Take English Proficiency Tests
12-6 months before enrollment
Most U.S. universities require proof of English proficiency through TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo English Test. Research each school's accepted tests and minimum scores, then register early to allow time for retakes if needed.
Get Credential Evaluation (if needed)
6-12 months before enrollment
If you studied outside the U.S., some universities and many employers require a credential evaluation from a NACES-member organization like WES or ECE. This translates your foreign degree into a U.S. equivalent and can take 4-8 weeks.
Apply to Schools and Get Accepted
6-12 months before enrollment
Submit applications to your target schools, including transcripts, test scores, personal statements, recommendation letters, and application fees. Apply to a mix of reach, match, and safety schools to maximize your options.
Receive Form I-20 or DS-2019
After acceptance (4-8 weeks)
After acceptance and submission of financial documentation, your school's Designated School Official (DSO) issues a Form I-20 (for F-1/M-1) or your program sponsor's Responsible Officer issues a Form DS-2019 (for J-1). This document is required for your visa application.
Pay I-901 SEVIS Fee
3+ business days before visa interview
Pay the I-901 SEVIS fee ($350 for F-1/M-1, $220 for most J-1 categories) at least 3 business days before your visa interview. Payment is made through the FMJ Fee portal. Students from certain countries face credit card restrictions and must use alternative payment methods.
Complete DS-160 Visa Application
Before visa interview
Fill out the DS-160 Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application form. This requires your passport, I-20/DS-2019, a digital photo, travel history, and social media usernames for the past 5 years. The form times out after 20 minutes of inactivity, so prepare all information in advance.
Attend Visa Interview at Embassy
2-6 months before program start
Schedule and attend your visa interview at the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. Bring your DS-160 confirmation, I-20 or DS-2019, SEVIS fee receipt, financial documents, passport, and acceptance letter. The consular officer evaluates whether you are a genuine student who intends to return home after your program.
Pre-Departure Preparation
1-2 months before departure
Arrange housing, book flights, attend a pre-departure orientation (offered by EducationUSA centers in 175+ countries), organize your carry-on documents, and research your port-of-entry procedures. International students can enter the U.S. up to 30 days before their program start date.
Arrive in the United States
Day of arrival and first week
Clear Customs and Border Protection (CBP) at your port of entry, verify your electronic I-94 record online, report to your school's International Students and Scholars Office (ISSO), and complete your first-week checklist including orientation, insurance, SSN application, and STEM CIP code verification.
What this guide delivers
Every section makes a specific promise and keeps it. No fluff. No upsells. No paywalls. Just the information you need, sourced from official U.S. government websites.
Which visa type is right for you
Visa Types Guide
How STEM CIP codes affect your future
Program Selection
Every document you need to apply
Application Guide
How to pay the SEVIS fee (even if your country restricts credit cards)
SEVIS & I-20 Guide
How to prepare for the visa interview
Visa Interview Prep
Your first-week checklist after landing
Arrival Guide
Explore Each Guide
Seven detailed guides covering every stage of the international student journey, from choosing a visa type to your first week on campus.
Visa Types: F-1 vs J-1 vs M-1
Compare the three student visa categories and understand how your choice affects post-graduation options.
Read guideChoose a Program
SEVP certification, STEM CIP codes, and strategic school selection for post-graduation success.
Read guideApply to Schools
Application timelines, English proficiency tests, credential evaluation, and financial documentation.
Read guideSEVIS, I-20 & DS-2019
Understanding SEVIS, your immigration documents, and how to pay the I-901 fee.
Read guideVisa Application & Interview
DS-160 preparation, interview tips, common questions, and what to do if your visa is denied.
Read guideArrive in the U.S.
Port of entry procedures, I-94 verification, and your complete first-week checklist.
Read guideScam Watch
Identify and avoid common scams targeting international students: fake schools, recruiter fraud, and more.
Read guideWhy pre-arrival decisions matter for post-graduation
The visa type you choose, the program you enroll in, and whether your degree has a STEM CIP code all directly affect your post-graduation options — including how long you can work in the US, how many times you enter the H-1B lottery, and whether you can self-petition for a green card.
Explore post-graduation pathways to see how the choices you make today affect your options 2-5 years from now.
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Educational information only. Not legal advice. Consult a qualified immigration attorney for your specific situation. Full disclaimer