Study in UK or USA: Visas, Eligibility Criteria and Fees for International Students

For your university experience to be successful, you must comprehend the visa requirements of your destination country, especially whether it is the US or the UK. It’s essential to comprehend US and UK visa laws to facilitate the application procedure and steer clear of typical mistakes that could cause delays in achieving your objectives. (Reuters)

It’s critical to comprehend the visa requirements of your intended country of study while making travel plans. Navigating these regulations is the first step to a good university experience for students aiming for the US or the UK.

Being knowledgeable not only makes the application process easier but also helps you avoid frequent errors that can cause you to miss your deadlines. Let’s review some important facts regarding the UK and US visa policies.

1. US Visa Categories

For overseas students, the US offers the following visa categories and associated costs:

F-1 Visa

For students attending a conservatory, university, college, high school, private primary school, seminary, or language training program, this is the most typical type.

• SEVIS I-901 Fee: $350
• Visa Application Fee (MRV Fee): $160

J-1 Visa

Programs promoting cultural and educational exchange are eligible for this visa. It is intended for students who require hands-on instruction that cannot be obtained in their nation of origin.

• SEVIS I-901 Fee: $220 for the majority of applicants; $35 for certain groups, including au pairs, camp counselors, and summer work trip participants.
• Visa Application Fee (MRV Fee): $160

M-1 Visa

Students enrolling in non-academic or vocational programs are eligible for this visa.

• SEVIS I-901 Fee: $350
• Visa Application Fee (MRV Fee): $160

Eligibility Criteria for the US

• Must be admitted to an institution that has received SEVP (Student and Exchange Visitor Program) approval.
• It requires a certain level of English ability to enroll in the course.
• Must demonstrate that they have enough money to live and study in the United States without engaging in illicit employment.
• Plan to leave the United States after the study program is over.
• Participate in all classes and achieve success.
• Must provide proof of intent to pursue a particular non-academic or vocational program when applying for an M-1 visa.

Application Process for the US

• Fill out the online application completely: Complete the online Form DS-160 and keep the confirmation page.
• The SEVIS I-901 charge must be paid online, and a receipt must be printed.
• Arrange the interview for a visa: Schedule an interview at an American consulate or embassy.
• Show up for the interview: The consular official will determine if you qualify for the visa.

2. UK Visa Categories

The United Kingdom provides international students with several visa types in addition to their fees:

Tier 4 (General) Student Visa

Students who have been offered a spot in a course lasting more than six months at a UK educational institution are eligible for this visa.

• Application cost for non-UK applicants: £490
• £490 is the application fee to extend or convert a student visa from within the United Kingdom.

Short-term Study Visa

This visa is intended for students who are enrolled in short-term study programs in the UK. It permits them to stay for a maximum of six months, or eleven months if they are enrolled in an English language course.

• For up to 6 months: £101
• For up to 11 months (for English language courses only): £200

To gain access to the National Health Service, applicants must pay the healthcare surcharge, which is normally £470 per year for students, as part of their application.

Eligibility Criteria for the UK

• Must have received an offer from an authorized Tier 4 Sponsor to enroll in a course.
• Must meet minimum requirements in speaking, reading, writing, and understanding English.
• Must be able to sustain themselves and cover the cost of their education.
• Must be a national of a nation outside of Switzerland and the European Economic Area (EEA).
• Must present a valid travel document, such as a current passport.
• If under 18, permission from parents is required.

Application Process for the UK

• Verify Eligibility and Compile Records: Make sure you fulfill the requirements and get ready with the required paperwork.
• Fill out the online application completely: Complete the online application for a visa, including the payment of the visa cost and healthcare premium.
• Verify Your Identity and Upload Your Files: Visit a visa application center to submit your biometrics, or utilize the “UK Immigration ID Check” app.
• Attend the credibility interview if it’s necessary. An officer will determine if you qualify for the visa.

Conclusion

For students who intend to study in the US or the UK, navigating the visa application procedure is essential. It is advisable to stay informed about any changes to restrictions by following the official channels and maybe consulting with visa specialists or university foreign offices.