Stage 7 · Lesson 2 of 6
The I-20 and F-1 visa
For a US degree, your university issues a once you accept and show funding. This form confirms your place and your funding. Next you pay the SEVIS I-901 fee, which is 350 US dollars for F-1 students as of 2026-09.
SEVIS is the US system that tracks international students. Then you complete the DS-160 visa application form and attend a at a US embassy or consulate for your F-1 visa. From 2025, the reviews the online presence of student visa applicants and interviews most applicants in person.
Since 15 September 2026, new F-1 students are admitted for a fixed period tied to their programme, up to four years. This replaces "", and extensions are requested from USCIS. Entry restrictions also apply to some nationalities.
Common traprelying on old advice, so check travel.state.gov and for your exact case.
A question to check yourself, an AI practice session and 2 cheat sheet entries come when you add the roadmap to your account. Add it
Resources for this stage
Start with
- GuideFreeStudy in the States
US Department of Homeland Security
The Department of Homeland Security guide to the I-20, SEVIS and F-1 rules