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Visa Guide · USA

DS-160 Form Filing Manual: Common Errors & SEVIS Fee (I-901) Payment

Updated 31 August 2026

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Executive Summary: Completing Form DS-160 Correctly

The Form DS-160 (Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application) is the core legal document evaluated by US Consular Officers before you step up to the interview window.

Every detail entered in your DS-160—your work history, passport number, sponsor details, SEVIS ID, and university school code—must match your Form I-20 (I20 Issuance Deposit Payment) and bank proof exactly.

Here is what Indian families need to know upfront:

  1. Official Portal & Timeout Rule: Form DS-160 is filed on the official US Department of State portal (ceac.state.gov). The portal automatically logs out after 20 minutes of inactivity, so always write down your Application ID and Security Question answer!
  2. I-901 SEVIS Fee ($350 USD): Before your visa interview, you must pay the $350 USD SEVIS Fee at fmjfee.com using your Form I-20 details and print the official receipt.
  3. Photo Specifications: Upload a 2x2 inch (51x51mm) color photo taken against a white background within the last 6 months. Eyeglasses are strictly forbidden in US visa photos!

DS-160 Critical Sections Map

DS-160 CRITICAL SECTIONS MAP

DS-160 SectionCommon Pitfalls & Correct Entries
SEVIS InformationInput 10-digit SEVIS ID (N00...) &
School Code exactly as printed on I-20.
Person/Entity PayingSelect "PARENT" or "SELF" (Must match
your Sponsor Affidavit & Loan Sanction).
Work / Education HistoryInclude ALL post-secondary education
and full-time employment gaps.
US Contact PersonName the International Student Advisor
listed under DSO section on I-20.

How to Pay the $350 I-901 SEVIS Fee

  1. Go to official US DHS portal: fmjfee.com.
  2. Select Form I-20 and enter your SEVIS ID (N00...), Date of Birth, and University School Code.
  3. Pay $350 USD via international credit/debit card.
  4. Print & Save PDF Receipt: Bring a physical paper printout of the I-901 SEVIS Confirmation Receipt to your visa interview (F1 Student Visa Master Guide).

How to Fix Errors After Submitting Form DS-160

If you spot a typo or error after submitting your DS-160:

  1. Log back into ceac.state.gov and select "Retrieve Application".
  2. Create a new DS-160 application using your saved Security Question answer.
  3. Correct the data and submit to generate a NEW Barcode Confirmation Number.
  4. Log into your US Visa Scheduling portal profile and update your barcode number before attending your OFC appointment!

Next Steps for Students & Parents

  1. Learn hacks for booking consulate slots: US Consulate Slot Booking Hacks Guide.
  2. Practice F-1 visa interview questions and answers: F-1 Visa Interview Questions Guide.
  3. Review initial 72-hour US arrival survival guide: Initial 72-Hour Survival Guide.

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