Apply for F-1 Visa
The F-1 visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows individuals to enter the United States for the primary purpose of pursuing full-time academic studies at accredited educational institutions. After you have entered the United States, your F-1 immigration status allows you to stay for the duration of your academic program, and in some cases engage in paid practical training during studies and after completion of studies under the guidelines of the Curricular Practical Training and Optional Practical Training programs. It is crucial that you adhere to the regulations set forth by the U.S. Department of State to maintain your F-1 status. For more information about maintaining your F-1 status, please refer to Maintaining Status.
Students should apply for the F-1 visa as soon as they receive the initial Form I-20 and have the required documents ready. U.S. embassies and consulates can issue the F-1 visa up to 365 days before the Program Start Date listed on your initial I-20. The decision whether to grant a visa is entirely up to consular officers at U.S. embassies and consulates. Here is some useful information that will help you prepare for the visa application process.
Student Visa Application Process by the Department of State
10 Points to Remember When Applying for a Student Visa by NAFSA
Navigating the Student Visa Process by Education USA