If you are going to the U.S. primarily for tourism, but want to take a short course of study
of less than 18 hours per week, you may be able to do so on a visitor visa. You should inquire
at the appropriate U.S. Embassy or Consulate. If your course of study is more than 18 hours a week,
you will need a student visa.
In most countries, first time student visa applicants are required to appear for an in-person interview.
However, each embassy and consulate sets its own interview policies and procedures regarding student
visas. Students should consult Embassy web sites or call for specific application instructions.
Keep in mind that June, July, and August are the busiest months in most consular sections, and interview
appointments are the most difficult to get during that period. Students need to plan ahead to avoid having
to make repeat visits to the Embassy. To the extent possible, students should bring the documents suggested
below, as well as any other documents that might help establish their ties to the local community. As part
of the visa application process, an interview at the embassy consular section is required for visa applicants
from age 14 through 79. Persons age 13 and younger, and age 80 and older, generally do not require an interview,
unless requested by embassy or consulate. The waiting time for an interview appointment for applicants can vary,
so early visa application is strongly encouraged It is important to remember that applying early and providing
the requested documents does not guarantee that the student will receive a visa.
