US F-1 Student Visa Application Checklist 2026: DS-160, SEVIS & Slot Tips
Updated 31 August 2026
| MRV Visa Fee | $185 |
| SEVIS I-901 Fee | $350 |
| Typical processing time | About 4 weeks |
About This Guide
Step-by-step F-1 visa guide for Indian students. MRV fee ($185), SEVIS I-901 fee ($350), DS-160 section-by-section filling guide, acceptable bank balance proof documents, and interview questions.
Required Documents
- ✓I-20 Form (signed by you and the school)
- ✓DS-160 Visa Confirmation Page barcode printout
- ✓SEVIS I-901 Fee Payment Receipt ($350)
- ✓Visa Slot MRV Appointment Confirmation page
- ✓Indian Passport (valid for at least 6 months)
- ✓Liquid Financial Proof (bank statements showing 1.5x I-20 amount)
Practice Interview Questions
Why did you choose this university?
Tip: Show clear knowledge of your specific course modules and name one lab or professor you are interested in. Do not talk about general university rankings.
How to answer: I chose Northeastern because its MS in Computer Science offers a strong systems track, and I want to study under Dr. Jane Smith in the Systems Lab. This aligns with my B.Tech project in cloud systems.
How will you fund your education and living costs in the US?
Tip: State the exact source of your funds clearly. If you have an education loan, mention it first, then back it up with family savings.
How to answer: My education is funded by a combination of an approved Prodigy Finance non-collateral loan of $50,000, and my father's personal savings of ₹20 Lakhs. I have already deposited the first semester fees.
Common Questions (FAQs)
How much liquid balance is required for F-1 visa interview?
You should show liquid funds equal to or exceeding 1.5x the I-20 Total Estimated Amount for 1 year.
Can I pay SEVIS fee using an Indian credit card?
Yes, SEVIS I-901 fee can be paid online using international credit/debit cards or Forex cards.