Student Visa: Types and Uses



A foreign national planning to enter the United States must first obtain a visa — either a nonimmigrant visa for temporary stay or an immigrant visa for permanent residence. If your goal is to study in the U.S., you will need a student visa.

NRIWAY helps students and parents understand the process and documentation required for a smooth visa application. Depending on your chosen program and institution, you’ll need either an F visa or an M visa.

F Visa Category

Applicable for students enrolling in:

  • Accredited universities or colleges

  • High schools

  • Private elementary schools

  • Seminaries

  • Conservatories

  • Other academic institutions, including language training centers

M Visa Category

Applicable for students attending:

  • Technical institutions

  • Vocational training schools

  • Other approved nonacademic institutions (except language programs)

Types of Educational Institutions in the U.S.

Colleges

Colleges mainly offer undergraduate programs and are smaller than universities. Many students begin their education at community colleges, which offer affordable two-year associate degrees before transferring to a university for the final two years of their bachelor’s degree.

Universities

Universities provide master’s, PhD, and post-doctoral programs. They are of two types:

  • Public universities – Managed and funded by state governments.

  • Private universities – Supported by tuition fees and donations; around 20% of students in the U.S. study at private institutions.

How to Apply – Step-by-Step with NRIWAY

The U.S. visa application process involves several steps, which may vary slightly depending on the U.S. Embassy or Consulate. NRIWAY recommends reviewing the official embassy website for specific guidelines.

Step 1: Complete the Online Application

  • Fill out the Form DS-160 online.

  • Upload a photo as per the Photograph Requirements and print the confirmation page.

Step 2: Schedule Your Interview

  • Book an appointment at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in your country of residence.

  • Interviews are mandatory in most cases. Wait times vary depending on the location, season, and visa category.

Step 3: Check Appointment Wait Time

  • New Students (F and M visas): Can receive a visa up to 120 days before the program start date but can enter the U.S. only 30 days before.

  • Continuing Students: May apply anytime if enrolled in a SEVP-approved school and registered in SEVIS.

Step 4: Prepare for the Interview

  • Pay the non-refundable visa fee as instructed by your Embassy or Consulate.

  • Collect and organize the required documents:

    • Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity beyond intended stay).

    • DS-160 confirmation page.

    • Fee payment receipt (if applicable).

    • Recent photo (as per U.S. photo guidelines).

    • Form I-20 – Certificate of Eligibility issued by your SEVIS-approved school.

    • Dependents (spouse/children) will each require a separate Form I-20.

U.S. Academic Calendar

Most American universities begin their Fall session in August/September. A Spring intake starts in January/February, while a Summer intake is available for select programs from May to August.

Typical program durations:

  • Bachelor’s degree: 3–4 years

  • Master’s degree: 1–2 years

  • Doctorate: 4–7 years

Universities usually follow a semester system, while some opt for trimester calendars.

NRIWAY Assistance

NRIWAY provides complete student visa assistance for NRIs and Indian students planning higher education in the U.S. — from document verification and SEVIS registration support to Form I-20 preparation and application guidance.

With NRIWAY, your U.S. education dream becomes easier, faster, and stress-free.

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