The USA Study Visa for Pakistani students, officially called the F-1 Student Visa, allows Pakistani nationals to study full-time at accredited colleges and universities in the United States. With the right documents, financial proof, and interview preparation, Pakistani students can successfully obtain their visa and pursue undergraduate, graduate, or research programs at top US institutions.
This guide provides everything you need to know about applying for a US study visa from Pakistan in 2025, including eligibility requirements, visa fees, the DS-160 form, SEVIS fee details, embassy locations, and common interview questions.
What Is a US Study Visa for Pakistani Students?
A US Study Visa allows students from Pakistan to enter the United States to pursue full-time education at a Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)–certified school.
Pakistani students most commonly apply for the F-1 Visa, which is designed for academic study. In some cases, vocational students may apply for an M-1 Visa, or exchange students for a J-1 Visa.
The F-1 Visa also allows for limited work authorization under OPT (Optional Practical Training) and CPT (Curricular Practical Training) programs, enabling students to gain valuable experience in the US.
What are the Types of US Student Visas?
| Visa Type | Purpose | Duration | Work Permission |
| F-1 | Academic or English language studies | Duration of study + 60-day grace period | On-campus (20 hrs/week); OPT/CPT after 1 year |
| M-1 | Vocational or technical training | Study period + 30-day grace period | Practical training after completion |
| J-1 | Exchange and cultural programs | Duration of program | May work if sponsored by an authorized institution |
What are the F-1 Visa Requirements for Pakistani Students
To qualify for a US F-1 Student Visa, Pakistani applicants must:
- Be accepted by an SEVP-certified US school or university.
- Demonstrate sufficient financial resources to pay tuition and living expenses.
- Possess adequate English language proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, or Duolingo).
- Maintain a valid passport (at least 6 months beyond intended stay).
- Have strong ties to Pakistan, such as family, property, or career plans, proving intent to return.
- Submit a Form I-20 issued by the admitting institution.
What are the Required Documents for a USA Study Visa from Pakistan
When applying for a US student visa, gather and verify the following documents:
- Valid passport (minimum 6-month validity after course end)
- Form I-20 from your SEVP-accredited school
- DS-160 confirmation page with barcode
- SEVIS fee payment receipt ($350)
- Visa fee receipt ($185)
- Passport-size photo (per US visa specifications)
- Proof of English proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent)
- Academic records (transcripts, certificates, standardized test results)
- Financial documents (bank statements, sponsor letter, or scholarship proof)
- Police clearance certificate (no criminal record)
- Evidence of ties to Pakistan (property deeds, employment letter, family statement)
Step-by-Step Application Process for Pakistani Students
1. Apply and Get Accepted to a US Institution
Select a SEVP-certified university or college. Once accepted, you’ll receive your Form I-20.
2. Pay the SEVIS Fee
The SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) fee is $350 (≈ Rs 99,500). Save and print the receipt.
3. Complete the DS-160 Form
Submit the online non-immigrant visa form at ceac.state.gov.
Pay the visa application fee of $185 (≈ Rs 52,600) and print the confirmation page.
4. Schedule a Visa Interview
Book your appointment at the US Embassy or Consulate in:
- Islamabad
- Karachi
- Lahore
- Peshawar
5. Attend the Interview
Bring all original documents. Be ready to answer questions about your studies, financial situation, and future plans.
Biometric data (photo and fingerprints) will be collected during your appointment.
Looking for the top USA study visa consultant in Islamabad? Make GoForeign your first choice for expert guidance, seamless applications, and guaranteed support!
How Much Does a US Student Visa Cost in Pakistan?
| Fee Type | Amount (USD) | Approx. PKR (2025) |
| SEVIS Fee | $350 | ~Rs 99,500 |
| Visa Application Fee | $185 | ~Rs 52,600 |
| Total Cost | $535 | ~Rs 152,100 |
What Are the Financial Proof and Bank Statement Requirements for a USA Study Visa?
To prove financial eligibility, Pakistani students must show funds for at least one year of tuition and living expenses.
| Study Location | Monthly Living Cost | Annual Estimate |
| In the US (general) | $1,200–$2,000 | $15,000–$24,000 |
| Tuition fees (avg.) | — | $20,000–$50,000 per year |
Accepted Financial Proofs:
- Bank statements (6 months)
- Scholarship or sponsor letter
- Fixed deposit certificates
- Government or institutional grants
SEVIS and DS-160: Understanding the Key Forms
Form I-20 (SEVIS): Issued by your US school, includes SEVIS ID, program dates, and financial details.
DS-160 Form: The online visa application completed via the U.S. Department of State website.
Always ensure both forms contain consistent details (school name, duration, funding) to avoid delays.
What Is the US Embassy Interview Process for Pakistani Students Applying for a Study Visa?
During the interview, a consular officer assesses:
- Study intent and academic background
- Financial ability
- English communication skills
- Ties to Pakistan
Pro Tips for Interview Success:
- Answer confidently and honestly.
- Keep documents neatly organized.
- Avoid memorized answers.
- Demonstrate clear plans to return home.
Work, Travel, and Stay Options for F-1 Visa Holders
| Category | Permission |
| On-campus work | Up to 20 hours/week during term |
| OPT (Optional Practical Training) | 12 months post-study (extendable 24 months for STEM) |
| CPT (Curricular Practical Training) | Work-study tied to academic program |
| Travel | Allowed with DSO signature on I-20 and valid visa/passport |
| Grace Period | 60 days after completion of studies |
Common Reasons for Visa Rejection (and How to Avoid Them)
- Weak financial documentation → Show strong bank history.
- Inconsistent or incomplete DS-160 info → Double-check all entries.
- Unclear intent to return to Pakistan → Present strong home-country ties.
- Poor interview performance → Practice with mock questions.
- Low English proficiency → Take language tests early and retest if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a student visa for the USA from Pakistan?
Processing takes 2–6 weeks, depending on interview availability and background checks.
Can I bring dependents?
Yes. Spouses or children can apply for an F-2 dependent visa.
Is there an age limit?
No, but applicants must show academic intent and financial readiness.
Can I switch schools after arrival?
Yes, but only to another SEVP-certified institution with a new I-20.
Can I stay in the US after graduation?
Yes — via OPT, H-1B visa, or graduate programs.
