Studying abroad in the US is one of the top choices of international students thanks to its excellent educational quality and diverse career development opportunities after graduation. Universities in the US offer a wide range of programs from undergraduate to graduate levels, with a wide choice of majors from Natural Sciences, Social Sciences, Arts to Information Technology.

To study in the US, international students need to apply for a US student visa, usually US student visa F1. This process requires careful and accurate preparation of information and documents to increase the likelihood of success in receiving a visa from the US Consulate.

Through the article below based on the knowledge and practical experience shared by ABA VISA and the latest GUIDANCE ON PROCEDURES FOR APPLYING FOR A VISA TO STUDY IN THE US 2024 for students who are looking for information about studying in the US.

To come to the US to study abroad, you need to go through two main and considered most important steps:

a, Determine your learning needs as well as the basic conditions to meet to study in the US:

Specifically, you and your family must determine:Age to study abroad in the US How is it regulated?

What educational levels are there for international students to come to the US to study through which you can advance? American study abroad route most suitable for yourself. 

If at this step you need a consulting company about studying abroad in the US, please contact our experts for support via Hotline: 0938165817.

The US offers many different levels of education for international students, including: 

1. High school: International students can study at public or private high schools in the US. This includes both boarding and day schools. Students usually enroll in grades 9 to 12 (about 14-18 years old).
2. Community College: These are schools that offer two-year programs, which will be available upon graduation (Associate's degree) or vocational certificate. After completing the community college program, students can transfer to universities to complete the remaining two years and receive a Bachelor's degree.
3. Universities and Colleges: Offers programs leading to a Bachelor's degree (Bachelor's degree), which lasted about four years. International students can study in many different majors at universities and colleges in the US.
4. Graduate School: After completing a Bachelor's degree, students can continue their studies Master's degree or Doctorate (Ph.D.). Master's programs typically last one to two years, while PhD programs can last three to six years or more, depending on the field of study and institution.
5. Post-Doctoral Research Programs: This is an opportunity for those who have completed a PhD to continue doing research in a specialist area. These programs do not necessarily lead to a degree but are opportunities to develop an academic or research career.
6. Professional Certificate Programs (Professional Certificates): These programs are typically shorter-term and focus on specialized skills in a specific field. They are suitable for those who want to upskill or change career without investing time in a full undergraduate or graduate program.

Study abroad in the US - You need to orient your career and study goals:

You need to clearly define what your career and study goals are? This will help you choose the course and university that suits your abilities. For example, if you want to become a software engineer, when deciding to study abroad you should look for schools with strong information technology programs.

Culture and living environment when studying abroad in the US:

America is a large country with many different cultures. Choosing a city or state that suits your personality and interests will help you better adapt to living and studying here. (or simply where you choose to study near your relatives' homes in the US...

Study abroad in the US and career opportunities after graduation:

Research job opportunities and the labor market situation in the field you want to pursue after graduating in the US. This will help you evaluate the effectiveness of investing in education in the US compared to other options. (At each level of study, if you need more in-depth advice about studying in the US, please contact us via Hotline: 0938165817).

b, You need to find a suitable school to attend and be accepted by this school

(For advice on choosing good schools to study, please contact Contact us via Hotline: 0938165817).

If you are accepted to study here, you will be issued an admission letter - also known as I-20 - and pay the SEVIS Fee.

What is I20 when studying abroad in the US?

Form I-20 is an important document for international students who want to study abroad in the United States (United States) within the framework of the F-1 (student) and M-1 (vocational) programs. This is an official document issued by schools accredited by the Student Exchange and Visitor Program (SEVP). Form I-20 is used to:

1. Proof of legal status: Confirm that the student has been accepted by a school in the United States and that the school has registered the student with the SEVIS (Student Information and Exchange Visitor System) database.
2. Visa application support: A necessary document when applying for a student visa.
3. Entering the United States: Required when entering the United States, along with a student visa.
4. Other function: Used to confirm international student status for other purposes such as issuing work permits, visa extensions, and other administrative procedures related to immigration status.

Every international student admitted to a school in the United States will receive a Form I-20, and must keep it carefully throughout his or her studies in the United States.

What is the SEVIS fee?

The SEVIS fee (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System Fee) is a fee that international students and cultural exchange visitors must pay when they are approved to participate in programs in the United States under an F, M, or J visa. This fee is used to support the operation of SEVIS, the system for monitoring and managing information of students and exchange visitors.

Language requirements

GPA, exam results (SAT, ACT, GRE, GMAT…), and language requirements such as TOEFL, IELTS or PTE if you are not a native speaker.

So how much does IELTS usually cost to study abroad in the US?

The IELTS score needed to study in the United States often depends on the requirements of the individual university or college you want to enroll in. However, there are some common score levels that many schools in the US require as follows:

• Universities and colleges: The minimum IELTS score is usually 6.0 overall, with no skill below 5.5.
• Post - graduate program: The required IELTS score is usually slightly higher, from 6.5 to 7.0 overall, and top schools may require more.

Some universities may have more flexible policies for international students with good English ability but unsatisfactory IELTS scores. In this case, students may be required to take English courses before starting the official program.

Transcript and degree requirements

In addition, you also need to provide current degrees, transcripts and certificates of extracurricular activities. Letters of recommendation from professors (if any). For students applying to major in art, design, or architecture, you may need to submit a portfolio - a collection of work done to demonstrate skills and your creativity.

In addition, the US Study Abroad Application also requires information about the financial capacity of the international student's family or himself (in case of studying abroad at the graduate, master's or doctoral level).

The cost of studying and living in the US can be very high. You need to carefully calculate your financial capacity and look for sources of financial support such as Scholarship to study in the US, teaching assistant, or part-time job on campus. (If you need in-depth advice on this information, please contact us...).

Health and insurance

Some schools require international students to have health insurance before enrolling. You may also need to undergo a medical examination..

In addition, depending on the time and policy of each school, it will require different documents. You should look for a unit that is knowledgeable about the field of study abroad and understands the school's information to provide complete documents. most complete – ABA VISA is here to support you throughout the study abroad application process.

First, we should find out what types of US student visas there are and how long the duration of each type is:

US student visa F

a, F1 US student visa This visa is considered the most popular among all types of US student visas

• US student visa for: Students pursuing academic programs at universities, colleges, high schools, private schools, language institutes or any other educational institution.
• How long is the F1 US student visa valid? The F1 visa is issued for the entire duration of the study program, often referred to as “Duration of Status” (D/S). This means you can stay in the US as long as you are pursuing a qualifying program and maintain legal status. After completing your study program, you can also stay in the US for an additional 60 days to prepare to leave or change to another visa status.
• Extending your US student visa: The F1 visa does not need to be renewed as long as the student is still studying and the school sends updated information to SEVIS (Student Information System).
• Conditions to be granted an F1 US student visa: To be granted an F1 visa, international students need to meet a number of conditions and carry out specific procedures. Here are the main conditions and requirements:

1. Acceptance from a school in the US: This school must be approved by the Student and Exchange Visitor Service (SEVP).
2. Demonstrate financial: You need to prove that you have enough financial capacity to cover tuition and living expenses during your study period in the US. This may be through savings, scholarships, family sponsorship, or other sources of funding.
3. Receive I-20 approval from school and pay the SEVIS I-901 fee
4. Complete the application form DS-160 and schedule an interview appointment with the US consulate nearest.
5. Prepare for the US student visa interview: You need to prepare the necessary documents for the interview, including passport, passport photo, Form I-20, financial proof, etc., and proof of ties to your homeland for future return. at the end of the course.
6. Interview at the Embassy or Consulate: A roadmap needs to be presented Roadmap to study abroad in the US clearly and convincingly and the evidence is binding on your State for the purpose of retrospection
7. study period in the United States.

Study abroad in high school in Canada 2024: Urban International School (UIS) Toronto

b, F2 US student visa Dây is a visa reserved for people who have a dependent relationship with the person granted an F1 US student visa.

Dependent relationship here means a spouse or biological child who is unmarried and under 21 years of age. This type of visa allows same-sex couples. The F-2 visa allows the family to live together in the US while the F-1 visa holder studies there.

Conditions for being granted an F2 US student visa:

1. Family relationship: The applicant must prove a legal relationship with the student holding an F-1 visa, which means they must be a spouse or unmarried child under 21 years of age.
2. Demonstrate financial: Students holding an F-1 visa must demonstrate that they have enough financial capacity to support family members during their time in the US. This includes living, study, and medical expenses.
3. Form I-20: Family members must have their own Form I-20, issued by the school the F-1 student is attending. This I-20 form will be provided after proving family relationship and financial capacity.

Procedures for applying for an F-2 US student visa:

1. Filing an I-20: F-1 students require the school to provide Form I-20 for each eligible family member.
2. Pay SEVIS I-901 fee: Each family member needs to pay the SEVIS fee, similar to the main student.
3. Submit form DS-160: This is the nonimmigrant visa application form that each dependent must complete.
4. Schedule an interview at the Consulate/Embassy: Family members must attend a visa interview at the US Consulate or Embassy.
5. Visa interview: During the interview, they need to prove their family relationship and financial ability.

F2 visa is issued based on the legal status of F1 visa. This means that if the main student's F1 visa is valid, family members can also stay in the US for the same period of time. The term of an F2 visa usually corresponds to the term of their sponsor's F1 visa.

US student visa J

a, J1 US student visa

• J1 US student visa For: Students participate in cultural exchange programs, including academic and non-academic, or internships.
• How long is the J1 US student visa valid? The duration of the J1 visa depends on the specific exchange program you participate in. For example, academic programs can last from a few months to a few years. After the program ends, you can stay in the US for another 30 days to travel or prepare to leave.
• Extension of J1 US student visa: The J1 visa may be extended in some cases if approved by the program sponsor and program conditions are met.

b, J2 US student visa

The J-2 visa is a US student visa for the spouse and children under 21 years of age of the J1 visa holder. The J1 visa is for people participating in cultural or educational exchange programs in the US. To apply for a J2 visa, relatives of the J1 visa holder need to have a certificate of eligibility to accompany them and must prove that they will be financially sponsored by the J-1 visa holder during their stay in the US.

J2 US student visa holders can go to school, work (if they obtain a work permit), and participate in recreational activities during their stay in the US. However, the main purpose of issuing a J2 visa is to maintain family relationships while the J1 visa holder participates in an exchange program.

VThis isa has different regulations on conditions and procedures for approval. If you need more detailed advice, please contact us via Hotline: 0938165817.

US student visa M

a, M1 US student visa

• M1 US student visa for: Students enrolled in technical or vocational programs at educational institutions in the United States.
• How long is the M1 US student visa valid? The M1 visa is issued for the time needed to complete the vocational program, up to a maximum of one year. However, you can apply for another extension, not to exceed one year.
• Renewal US student visa M1: M1 visa extension must be approved by the school and must demonstrate that the extension is necessary to complete the course.

b, US student visa M2

M2 visa is a visa type for spouses and children under 21 years of age of M1 visa holders. 

To apply for an M2 visa, relatives of the M1 visa holder need an accompanying certificate of eligibility (Form I-20) issued by the educational institution where the M1 visa holder is studying. The M2 visa holder must demonstrate a family relationship with the M1 visa holder and financial dependence or sponsorship of the M1 visa holder.

Holders of M2 US student visas can stay in the US for the duration of the M1 visa but are not allowed to work. However, they can study at US educational institutions, but only under certain circumstances and according to specific regulations.

VThis isa has different regulations on conditions and procedures for approval. If you need more detailed advice, please contact us via Hotline: 0938165817.

Documents needed to prepare to apply for a US student visa

Documents from the Consulate General and schools in the US

• Original passport: Must have a valid passport with at least two blank pages for visa stamping. Passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the intended date of departure from the US.
• Barcoded confirmation of completed application DS-160 (English application form submitted online to apply for a visa, applicable to those applying for a US visa for non-immigrant purposes such as Tourism (B1, B2), Study Abroad (F, M, J),...).
• 02 photos White background size 5×5, requires formal attire, clearly visible ears, no glasses, and photo taken within the last 6 months
• Original admission letter (I-20) sent by the US school including the signature of the issuer and the signature of the international student.
• Appointment confirmation (After paying the fee and booking on the Embassy website).
• SEVIS security fee receipt (system of the US Department of Defense and Security to track and monitor, allowing access to accurate information about students' behavior and history of living in the US).

Personal documents and educational qualifications when applying for a US student visa

• Original birth certificate.
• Registration book.
• Passport of father or mother.
• Transcripts or transcripts of all educational levels up to the time of application.
• Graduation diploma from previous educational levels.
• Student certification (for those currently attending school)
• English certificate such as TOEFL, IELTS…
• Certificates of merit, medals, other certificates (school/district/city level competitions or school extracurricular activities).
• Special certificates (SAT/ACT, GMAT/GRE,...).

Documents proving financial status when applying for a US student visa

• Savings book/Bank account balance confirmation (Statement).
• Certificate of Land or Housing Use Rights.
• Business registration documents (if the sponsor is a business owner), Labor Contract/ Appointment Paper (if the sponsor is an employee). (The sponsor here is Father/ Mother or Aunt, Uncle...
• Most recent tax payment documents (business tax or personal income tax depending on the case).
• Capital contribution contracts, economic contracts (house/land rental, product purchase and sale,...),...
• Paycheck or account statement for the most recent 3-6 months of the financial sponsor.
• Title documents for vehicles, boats, ships, etc.
• Documents of other financial sources (can be shown on the documents).

About experience answering US student visa interview questions?

Consular officers often interview through the following topics:

Study plan: You need to explain why you want to study in the US and what major you plan to study. You may be asked why you chose to study in the US, why you chose that field of study, and what your long-term goals are after completing your studies.

Choosing a university: You need to be ready to discuss why you chose the high school, college, university, etc. you plan to attend. This may include questions about how many schools you applied to and what impressed you about that school.

Academic capacity: You may be asked about your educational history, including standardized test scores (such as GRE, GMAT, SAT, TOEFL, IELTS), previous GPA, and other academic achievements.

Financial situation: It is very important to demonstrate financial ability to fund your studies. Questions may be related to your financial plan for your studies, including information about scholarships, family support or other financial resources.

Plans after graduation: Because the F-1 visa is a nonimmigrant visa, you need to convince the consular officer that you have strong ties to your home country and will return after completing your studies. Questions may include your career plans, family relationships and assets or other commitments in Vietnam.

Personal background and intentions: There may be exploratory questions about your personal background and how you understand and plan to adapt to cultural and educational differences in the United States.

To effectively prepare for questions when applying for a US student visa, you should practice answering to ensure that you answer clearly, honestly and concisely. Arranging and fully preparing the necessary documents is also very important, because it shows your seriousness and thorough preparation for the interview.

How long in advance should I apply for a US student visa?

How long does it take to apply for a US student visa and when is the most appropriate time to apply is a question that any student is interested in. ABA VISA would like to answer as follows:

Normally, the time to receive a US student visa from the time you submit your application will be 4 - 10 working days. However, in cases where documents are missing and need to be supplemented, the time will take longer than usual.

So the estimated time to prepare the application through the 2 steps mentioned above to get the US student visa result in hand is about approx. 3 months Preparation includes:

• I-20 issuance processing time (admission letter, some schools issue within 10 days, some schools take more than a month).
• After having the I-20, it is time to schedule an interview for a US student visa (the Embassy's schedule usually has to jump 3-4 weeks in advance depending on the time).
• After that, you need time to practice for the US student visa interview and prepare your family's financial factors, which takes about 2-4 weeks.

When studying abroad in the US, international students have many accommodation options, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Here are some popular options:

1. On-campus housing:

• Advantages: Safe and convenient for traveling and participating in academic and social activities at school. Usually includes amenities such as electricity, water, and internet.
• Defect: May cost more than some outside options; There may be stricter rules regarding hours and visitors.

2. Renting a house/room off campus (Off-campus housing):

• Advantages: More freedom in terms of space and living regulations; Usually cheaper than dorms if shared with others.
• Defect: Must manage issues such as rental contracts, electricity and water bills, internet, and transportation from home to school.

3. Roommates:

• Advantages: Reduce living costs by sharing rent and other expenses with roommates.
• Defect: Need to negotiate and adjust to other people's lifestyles, which can be difficult if a suitable roommate cannot be found.

4. Staying with a host family (Homestay):

• Advantages: Opportunity to integrate culture and practice English; meals and other amenities are often included.
• Defect: Less freedom and must follow the homeowner's regulations; There may be less personal space.

5. Serviced apartment:

• Pros: Offers complete amenities, often including housekeeping and maintenance services.
• Cons: Cost can be much higher than other options.

Latest updated list of scholarships from high schools and universities in the US:

This is Scholarship to study in the US Exclusively for Vietnamese students (if you need to check information about which scholarship funds the school you want to study has, please contact ABA VISA so we can assist in checking the most accurate information at each time. for you!)

Scholarships from some schools such as: 

Valencia College: There are scholarships from $500 -$2500 for students with a GPA of 3.0 

Or schools in New York State from 50 - 100%

Sunny International Transition Chapter Program:

– IELTS 4.5 (bands 4.5 except speaking 4.0) Or Duolingo 80 Or PTE 40

– GPA 2.0

Scholarship

– 01 100% scholarship and 1 50% tuition scholarship.

– Diversity scholarship $5,000 for Vietnamese students

– Scholarship based on GPA: $2,000-$3,000

After getting a US student visa and coming to the US to study, what do you need to keep in mind?

When coming to the US to study abroad, you need to prepare and note many important points to ensure an effective and safe life and study. Here are some key notes:

Settlement and settlement:

• Arrange accommodation before arrival or immediately after arrival. Review all amenities and make sure you understand how to use the home appliances.
• Shop for essential items for daily life, such as kitchen appliances, personal items, and school supplies.

Register and visit the school

• Complete the registration process, confirm class schedule and get to know the campus.
• Meet with your academic advisor to understand course requirements and structure.

Open a bank account and phone in the US

• Open a local bank account to manage your finances more easily.
• Buy a suitable phone SIM for communication and data use.

Practice adapting to new cultures and environments

• Join clubs, student organizations, and social events to get out into the community and make friends.
• Learn and respect local culture, laws and regulations.

Health and insurance

• Make sure you have appropriate health insurance. Check to see if the school offers insurance for international students.
• Find out about medical services near you and schools.

Personal security

• Always pay attention to personal safety, especially when in public areas and at night.
• Keep in regular contact with family and friends, updating them on your situation and location.

Manage time and study pressure when studying abroad in the US

• Develop effective time management skills to balance study, work, and personal life.
• Use campus resources such as counseling centers, academic assistance, and skills courses.

What should you do when you have an unfortunate incident or need help while studying abroad in the US?

There are many organizations and individuals you can contact to get the help you need. Here are some people and organizations you should contact depending on the situation:

Local police agency: In an emergency, always call 911 to receive quick assistance from police, ambulance or firefighters.

Vietnamese Embassy or Consulate: If you encounter legal problems, lost your passport, or other serious issues related to your citizenship status, you should contact the Vietnamese Embassy or Consulate in the US.

International Student Office at your school (International Student Office): This is the place to turn when you have issues related to visas, school registration, or other personal and academic matters. They can provide advice or refer you to appropriate support services.

Your academic advisor or teacher: If the problem is course-related, schedule conflicts, or academic pressure, your academic advisor or teacher can help you resolve it.

Student consulting and support services: Most universities have mental health counseling and student support services. If you feel stressed, lonely or have mental health problems, don't hesitate to seek help.

Friends and relatives: BILLIONIn any situation, staying in touch with friends and family will help you feel supported and motivated to tackle difficulties.

The company/service has supported US student visa consulting in Vietnam such as ABA VISA, we are ready to support and help you if this is within our ability.

In all cases, it is important to remain calm and notify those who can assist you immediately. This not only helps you solve the problem quickly but also ensures your safety.

And finally, we are very happy to have shared with you useful information based on practical experience that has successfully supported many customers studying abroad in the US.

Choosing ABA VISA as a US student visa consulting unit is a wise decision, ensuring that you will receive the most professional and effective support. 

– With extensive experience in the field of US student visa consulting and a team of experts who understand immigration law, ABA VISA not only helps you optimize your chances of success in applying for a visa but also supports you. in every step of the application preparation process, helping you avoid mistakes that can lead to visa refusal.

– Furthermore, ABA VISA provides separate individual consultation sessions for each customer profile, ensuring that all your questions about US student visas are answered clearly and completely.

– Choosing ABA VISA, you choose a smooth and successful journey to study abroad in the US, starting from the step of submitting your application for a US student visa. In addition, we not only accompany you during the application but also supports you during your time studying abroad in the US.

See more: How much money do you need to study abroad in Canada?