Documents Needed for US Study Visa Application After Reopening of Applications Window

For thousands of aspiring international students worldwide, the wait is over! The United States has officially resumed scheduling interviews for F, M, and J student visa applicants as of June 18, 2025. This critical announcement brings immense relief and renews hopes for students aiming to commence their studies in the U.S. in the upcoming academic year.

However, alongside this positive development comes a significant new policy that all applicants must immediately be aware of: the U.S. State Department is now requiring enhanced social media and online screening for all student visa applicants. This means your digital footprint will be meticulously reviewed as a mandatory part of your visa application and that in term means now you’d need to provide more data with your US study visa application.

Consular officers will be granted access to your social media profiles and other online activities to assess for any indications of hostility towards the United States, its government, culture, institutions, or founding principles. They will be looking for content that suggests support for foreign terrorist organizations, unlawful antisemitic harassment or violence, or anything that might question your intent to abide by U.S. laws and your visa status. Refusal to comply or problematic content could lead to increased scrutiny or even visa denial.

What Does This Mean for Your New Study Visa Application for US?

It is now more crucial than ever to meticulously prepare your application and understand the stringent new vetting procedures. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the documents you’ll need and the key considerations for your U.S. student visa application:

1# Pre-Application Requirements & Forms – The Foundation:

1. • Acceptance and Form I-20 (or DS-2019 for J-1): Your journey begins with securing admission to a U.S. educational institution certified by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP). Upon acceptance, your institution will issue your crucial Form I-20 (for F-1/M-1 academic/vocational students) or Form DS-2019 (for J-1 exchange visitors). This document contains your unique SEVIS ID, program details, and financial information.
   • SEVIS I-901 Fee Payment and Receipt: Pay the mandatory SEVIS fee (currently $350 for F-1/M-1 visas; confirm J-1 fees). This fee supports the system that tracks international students. Keep your payment receipt safe!
   • DS-160, Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application Form: Complete this detailed online form thoroughly and accurately. After submission, print the confirmation page with the barcode – you’ll need it for your interview.
   • Visa Application (MRV) Fee Payment and Receipt: Pay the non-refundable visa application fee (currently $185 for most student visas). Retain your payment receipt.
   • Scheduled Visa Interview Appointment: Once fees are paid and the DS-160 is submitted, schedule your interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in your country of residence. Print your appointment confirmation letter.

2# Documents for Your Visa Interview – Your Portfolio of Proof:

Remember to bring both original documents and photocopies to your interview.

1. 1. Valid Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in the U.S. Bring any old passports as well.
   2. Passport-Sized Photograph: One recent (within 6 months) color photograph (5 cm x 5 cm) adhering to U.S. visa photo requirements. While uploaded with DS-160, bring a physical copy as a backup.
   3. All Confirmation Pages/Receipts:
      • DS-160 confirmation page with barcode.
      • SEVIS I-901 fee payment receipt.
      • Visa application (MRV) fee payment receipt.
      • Visa interview appointment confirmation letter.
   4. Original Form I-20 (or DS-2019): Ensure it’s signed by both you and your school/program official.
   5. Comprehensive Academic Documents:
      • Official academic transcripts, diplomas, degrees, or certificates from all previous educational institutions.
      • Official standardized test scores required by your U.S. institution (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS, SAT, ACT, GRE, GMAT).
      • An up-to-date Curriculum Vitae (CV) or Resume.
   6. Robust Proof of Financial Support:
      • Original bank statements (yours or your sponsor’s) clearly demonstrating sufficient funds to cover your tuition and living expenses for at least the first year. These must be on official bank letterhead with proper stamps and signatures.
      • If you have a sponsor, provide an Affidavit of Support (e.g., Form I-134) from them, along with their financial documents (e.g., recent bank statements, tax returns, employment letter), and a letter explaining their relationship to you and their commitment to fund your studies.
      • Proof of any scholarships, grants, or financial aid received.
   7. Evidence of Intent to Depart the U.S. (Strong Ties to Home Country):
      • Documents demonstrating compelling reasons for you to return to your home country after completing your studies. This is a critical component. Examples include:
        • Family ties (birth certificate, marriage certificate, family photographs).
        • Proof of property ownership or other significant assets in your home country.
        • Employment letters or job offers for your return.
        • Extensive travel history (if applicable).

Critical Considerations in the New Era of Vetting

• Social Media Transparency is Non-Negotiable: As stated by the U.S. State Department, applicants are now expected to adjust their privacy settings on all social media profiles to “public” to facilitate review. Consular officers will be scrutinizing your online activity for the past five years for any “hostile attitudes” or concerning content. Be proactive in reviewing your own online presence.
• Honesty and Consistency: Every piece of information you provide, whether on forms or during your interview, must be truthful and consistent. Discrepancies can lead to visa denial.
• Prepare for Your Interview: Be ready to articulate your academic plans, reasons for choosing your specific university and program, how you will finance your education, and your clear post-graduation intentions to return to your home country.
• Apply Early: The visa application process can be lengthy, especially with the enhanced vetting. Start your application well in advance of your program start date.
• Do Not Purchase Non-Refundable Tickets: Avoid purchasing non-refundable air tickets until your visa has been issued.

References

• https://educationusa.state.gov/your-5-steps-us-study/apply-your-student-visa/undergraduate
• https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/study/student-visa.html
• https://www.ndm.edu/sites/default/files/ELI/F1-Acceptance-Packet-Student-Checklist.pdf
• https://www.state.gov/releases/office-of-the-spokesperson/2025/06/announcement-of-expanded-screening-and-vetting-for-visa-applicants/.