F1 Student Visa Process for Nepali Students (Step-by-Step Guide)
In the USA the F1 visa is the primary choice for Nepali students which have the goal of going abroad for higher education. Each year thousands of Nepali students apply for F1 visas to study at the best American universities and colleges. If you are a Nepali looking to study in the USA, it is important to know the step by step process which will increase your chances of getting the visa.

This guide has been put together for the benefit of Nepali students which we walk you through every step of the F1 visa process. Through proper preparation and the use of a reliable consulting service in Nepal, you may see an increase in your visa approval chance.
Why Choose the F1 Student Visa?
F1 visa for Nepali students which allows them to:.
Study full-time at accredited U.S. universities
Work on-campus (20 hours/week)
Apply to do practical training which is OPT or CPT.
Shift into career tracks in the USA.
For these reasons the F1 visa is the top choice for Nepali students going to study in the USA.
Nepali Student’s Guide to F1 Visa Process.
Step 1: Choose a U.S. Universities and apply.
Your F1 visa process starts by choosing the right U.S. university or college. Also make sure the school is SEVP certified (Student and Exchange Visitor Program).
Tips for Nepali Students: Advice for Nepali Students:.
Choose universities offering scholarships
Check out what is required for admission (GPA, IELTS/TOEFL, SAT, etc..
Find out affordable universities and colleges in the USA.
Once you are in we will send out your offer letter.
Step 2: Get your I-20 Form.
After you accept the offer the university will issue an I-20 — which is the most important paper you will need for your F1 visa application.
The I-20 includes: The I-20 contains:.
Your SEVIS ID
Course information
Program duration
Estimated cost
Sponsor details
Make sure that all info is correct. Also have the students of Nepal see to it that they keep this document safe and bring it to the embassy for the interview.
Step 3: Pay the I-901 Fee.
Before applying for the F1 visa from what I understand Nepali students have to pay the SEVIS fee.
How to Pay: How to Pay out:.
Visit the official FMJFee website
Enter SEVIS ID from I-20
Pay using an international card
Keep your SEVIS payment receipt, you will need it for the Visa Interview.
Step 4: Fill out the DS-160 form.
This is a very important step for Nepali students.
What the DS-160 Includes: What the DS-160 contains:.
Personal information
Education history
University details
Sponsor financial information
Tips: Advice:.
Fill it honestly and accurately
Use your passport details
Save the confirmation page with barcode
Mistakes on the DS-160 form are a large cause of F1 visa rejection for Nepali students which is why you should double check all of it.
Step 5: Book Your Visa Appointment Today.
Visit the site of U.S. Embassy Kathmandu and set a date for your visa interview.
You need: Require:.
DS-160 confirmation
Passport
SEVIS receipt
Slots fill up fast, in particular during April August. Book in advance!
Step 6: Gather your financial documents.
Financial documentation is very critical for Nepali F1 visa applicants.
You need: Output:.
Bank balance letter
Bank statements (past 6 months)
Property valuation (optional)
Income source letters
Tax clearance (if applicable)
Sponsor affidavit
Tip: Hint:.
Demonstrate sufficient financial stability to cover 1 year of tuition 1 year of living expenses.
Step 7: Prepare for your visa interview.
At the U.S. Embassy in Kathmandu which is the location of the F1 visa interview you may only have to queue up for 2 3 minutes. Also it is important that you present with confidence, tell the truth and clarify your study plans.
Common questions for F1 visa of Nepali students:.
Why do you wish to study in the USA?
Why did you choose this university?
Who is sponsoring your education?
What do you have in store after graduation?
Tips for Nepali students: Suggestions for Nepali students:.
Practice speaking English confidently
Stay calm and positive
Give short, clear answers
Do not memorize—speak naturally
Step 8: Go to your Visa Interview.
On the interview day, carry: At the interview please bring:.
Passport
I-20
SEVIS receipt
DS-160 confirmation
Academic documents
Financial documents
Speak with confidence. The visa officer looks at your academic intent, financial stability, and that you are a genuine student.
If approved, you will hear: Upon approval you will hear:.
“Your visa is approved.”
Step 9: Collect your passport and get ready to go.
Your passport with F1 visa stamp will be sent to you within a few days.
Next steps include: Next to do is:.
Paying university deposit
Housing arrangement
Booking flight
Attending pre-departure sessions
Packing essential documents
Congrats you are set to start your academic career in the USA!
Tips for success in obtaining F1 visas for Nepal’s students.
Maintain strong academics (GPA matters!)
Select what is true to your past studies.
Show strong financial ties
Demonstrate clear career goals
Be honest during the interview
Obtain help from a reliable US based education consultancy in Nepal.
Right guidance improves your visa approval chances greatly.
Conclusion
The F1 process for students from Nepal may seem difficult at times, but with the right guidance and preparation it is very much doable. If you follow exactly what is required choose the right university, get your documents in order, fill out the DS-160, pay the SEVIS fee, and prepare for the interview you will see that your academic journey in the U.S. begins very smoothly.
Studying in the US is a key to world class education, global experience and international career for Nepalese students.