How to Get a USA Student Visa from Bangladesh ? Studying in the United States is a dream for many Bangladeshi students. With world-class universities, diverse cultures, and excellent career opportunities, the U.S. remains a top destination for higher education.
However, the process of obtaining a U.S. student visa can be complex and overwhelming.
This guide will walk you through the step-by-step process, provide real-time data, and offer tips to help you secure your U.S. student visa in 2025.
Types of USA Student Visas
Before applying, it’s essential to understand the different types of student visas:
| Visa Type | Purpose |
|---|---|
| F-1 Visa | For academic studies at universities/colleges |
| M-1 Visa | For vocational or technical courses |
| J-1 Visa | For exchange programs (e.g., Fulbright) |
Most Bangladeshi students apply for the F-1 visa, which allows full-time study at U.S. institutions.
Why Study in the USA?
Before diving into the visa process, let’s explore why the U.S. is a popular choice for Bangladeshi students:
- Top-Ranked Universities: The U.S. is home to 8 of the top 10 universities globally (QS World University Rankings 2024).
- Diverse Academic Programs: From STEM to liberal arts, the U.S. offers a wide range of programs.
- Career Opportunities: Optional Practical Training (OPT) allows students to work in the U.S. for up to 3 years after graduation.
- Cultural Diversity: Students from over 200 countries study in the U.S., creating a multicultural environment.
USA Student Visa Costs (2025)
| Expense Type | Cost (USD) | Cost (BDT) Approx. |
| SEVIS Fee | $350 | 38,000 BDT |
| Visa Application Fee | $185 | 20,000 BDT |
| University Tuition | $10,000-$50,000 per year | 10-55 lakh BDT |
| Living Expenses | $10,000-$15,000 per year | 10-17 lakh BDT |
| Health Insurance | $600-$2,000 per year | 66,000-2.2 lakh BDT |
(Exchange rate: 1 USD = 110 BDT, subject to change)
Step-by-Step Process to Get a U.S. Student Visa from Bangladesh :
Step 1: Get Accepted into a SEVP-Approved U.S. Institution
- What is SEVP? The Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) approves U.S. institutions to enroll international students.
- How to Apply:
- Research and shortlist universities that match your academic and career goals.
- Submit applications with required documents (transcripts, test scores, essays, etc.).
- Receive an acceptance letter and Form I-20 from the institution.
Step 2: Pay the SEVIS Fee
- What is SEVIS? The Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) tracks international students in the U.S.
- Fee Details:
- F-1 Visa: $350 (as of 2023, subject to change in 2025).
- Payment Method: Online via the SEVIS website.
- Keep the Receipt: You’ll need it for your visa application.
Step 3: Complete the DS-160 Form
- The DS-160 is the online visa application form for nonimmigrant visas.
- Fill it out at ceac.state.gov.
- Documents required:
- Passport
- Digital photograph
- SEVIS ID (from Form I-20)
- U.S. university details
- Previous travel history
- After submission, print the DS-160 confirmation page for your interview.
Step 4: Pay the Visa Application Fee
- The F-1 visa application fee is $185.
- Payment options:
- Online banking (via Saimon Overseas)
- Bank deposit (U.S. Embassy’s designated bank in Bangladesh Eastern Bank Ltd.)
- Keep the payment receipt for interview confirmation.
Step 5: Schedule the Visa Interview
- Where to Apply: U.S. Embassy in Dhaka, Bangladesh.
- How to Schedule:
- Create an account on the CGI Portal
- Choose a convenient date and time for your interview.
- Wait Times: As of 2024, the average wait time for a student visa interview in Dhaka is 30-60 days. Plan ahead!
USA Student Visa Processing Time (2025)
| Stage | Estimated Time |
| SEVIS Fee Payment | Immediate |
| DS-160 Form Submission | 1-2 Days |
| Visa Interview Appointment | 3-9 Weeks |
| Visa Decision | Same-Day or 7-10 Days |
| Passport Delivery (If Approved) | 7-10 Days |
Step 6: Prepare Required Documents
Gather the following documents for your visa interview:
- Mandatory Documents:
- Passport (valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay).
- Form DS-160 confirmation page.
- Visa application fee receipt.
- SEVIS fee receipt.
- Form I-20 (signed by you and the institution).
- Passport-sized photo.
- Supporting Documents:
- Academic transcripts and certificates.
- Standardized test scores (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS, SAT, GRE, GMAT).
- Proof of financial ability (bank statements, sponsorship letters, etc.).
- Acceptance letter from the U.S. institution.
- Proof of ties to Bangladesh (e.g., property documents, family ties).
Step 7: Attend the Visa Interview
Attend your visa interview at U.S. Embassy, Dhaka (Baridhara, Dhaka 1212).
-
- Common Interview Questions:
- Why do you want to study in the USA?
- Why did you choose this university?
- What are your future career plans?
- How will you finance your education?
- Do you plan to return to Bangladesh after completing your studies?
- Interview Tips:
- Be confident and honest.
- Speak in English.
- Provide clear and concise answers.
- Carry all required documents in an organized manner.
- Common Interview Questions:
Step 8: Visa Decision & Passport Collection
- If approved, your passport with the F-1 visa will be delivered via courier within 7-10 days.
- If denied, ask the officer for the reason and consider reapplying with stronger supporting documents.
Common Reasons for Visa Denial
- Insufficient Financial Proof: Inability to demonstrate adequate funds.
- Weak Ties to Bangladesh: Failure to convince the officer of your intent to return.
- Incomplete Documentation: Missing or incorrect documents.
- Poor Interview Performance: Lack of confidence or unclear answers.
Securing a U.S. student visa from Bangladesh in 2025 requires careful planning, thorough preparation, and a clear understanding of the process.
By following this guide, you can navigate the complexities of the visa application and increase your chances of success. Remember, the key to a successful visa application is demonstrating your genuine intent to study, your financial capability, and your strong ties to Bangladesh.
Start your journey today, and take the first step toward achieving your dream of studying in the United States!
Need help? Consult a visa expert or visit StepIntoStudy.com for more guidance!