How to Apply for USA Student Visa from Pakistan is a common question among young students who dream of studying in the U.S. This guide explains everything — from requirements to visa cost, bank statements, and free study options.
Understanding Different Types of USA Student Visas
Choosing the right visa is the first step:
F-1 Visa – This is the most common student visa. It’s for full-time academic students. (Also answers: F1 visa requirements)
M-1 Visa – For technical or vocational education.
J-1 Visa – For exchange programs and research-based studies.
Complete Process: Apply for USA Student Visa from Pakistan
Step 1: Apply to a SEVP-Approved School
You must apply to a university or college in the U.S. approved by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP). Once accepted, you’ll receive a Form I-20.
Step 2: Pay the SEVIS Fee
You must pay the SEVIS I-901 fee (currently around $350). Keep the receipt as proof.
Step 3: Fill Out the DS-160 Form
Go to the U.S. Department of State website and fill the DS-160 visa application form online.
Step 4: Pay the Visa Fee
The student visa for USA from Pakistan price is around $160. This fee is non-refundable.
Step 5: Book Your Visa Interview
Create an account at U.S. Travel Docs and schedule your interview at the U.S. Embassy in Islamabad or Consulate in Karachi.
What Are the Student Visa USA Requirements?
Here are the student visa USA requirements you must fulfill:
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Valid passport
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Form I-20 from your U.S. school
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DS-160 confirmation page
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SEVIS and visa fee receipts
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Academic documents
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English test scores (like IELTS or TOEFL)
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Proof of financial support
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Passport-size photos
How Much Bank Statement for US Student Visa from Pakistan?
One of the most asked questions is: How much bank statement is needed for a U.S. student visa?
You must show proof that you can afford one full year of tuition + living expenses.
For example:
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Tuition Fee: $15,000 – $30,000
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Living Expenses: $10,000 – $15,000
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Total Bank Statement Needed: Around $25,000 – $45,000 USD (in PKR: ~Rs. 70–120 lac)
This can be your own or your sponsor’s bank account (like your parents).
What Is the Student Visa USA Cost?
Let’s break down the full student visa USA cost:
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Application Fee (DS-160): $160
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SEVIS Fee: $350
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Optional: Visa interview preparation or agent fees
Note: These costs do not include your university tuition or travel expenses.
U.S. Student Visa Processing Time in Pakistan
Wondering about U.S. student visa processing time in Pakistan?
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Interview wait time: Around 2–4 weeks
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Visa processing time: 5–15 working days (sometimes longer)
Apply at least 3–4 months before your course starts to avoid delays.
5-Year Student Visa USA Requirements
Yes, some students can get a 5-year student visa, especially if your degree program is long (like Ph.D. or certain undergrad programs). However, even with a 5-year visa, you must:
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Remain enrolled full-time
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Maintain good academic status
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Not violate visa rules
Can Pakistani Students Study in the USA for Free?
Many students ask about free study in USA for Pakistani students.
While studying completely free is rare, here are options:
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Scholarships from U.S. universities (need-based or merit-based)
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Exchange programs (like UGRAD, Fulbright)
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Assistantships (for graduate students who work part-time in teaching or research)
Keep checking university websites and scholarship portals for the latest openings.
Quick Summary: USA Student Visa Details for Pakistani Students
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Visa Type | F-1 (Academic), M-1 (Vocational), J-1 (Exchange) |
| Visa Application Fee (DS-160) | $160 (approx. Rs. 45,000 PKR) |
| SEVIS Fee | $350 (approx. Rs. 100,000 PKR) |
| Required Bank Statement | $25,000 – $45,000 USD (Rs. 70 – 120 lac PKR) |
| Documents Needed | Passport, Form I-20, DS-160, Fee Receipts, Academic Docs, English Test |
| Visa Processing Time (Pakistan) | Interview: 2–4 weeks, Processing: 5–15 working days |
| 5-Year Visa Eligibility | Based on course duration and compliance with rules |
| Free Study Options | Scholarships, Fulbright, UGRAD, Assistantships |
Final Thoughts: How to Apply for USA Student Visa from Pakistan
Now you know how to apply for USA student visa from Pakistan with all the essential details — visa type, requirements, costs, bank statements, and scholarships. Prepare early, stay organized, and apply confidently.
With the right steps, your dream of studying in the USA can become reality!
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