Wondering how to apply for an F1 visa in Nigeria? The F1 student visa is the most common type of visa issued in Nigeria. F1 visa is usually issued to those pursuing an academic program or studying a full-time degree at a US institution.
According to US State Department officials and a recent report by ApplyBoard, a Canadian-based international student recruitment company, more African students were granted F1 visas in 2022 than ever before, with Nigeria receiving the most student visas in its history.
To apply for an F1 visa, you must pay the SEVIS I-901 Fee and submit the DS-160 form online. After that, you need to schedule an appointment.
When visiting the US embassy for an interview, you will need to bring a printed copy of your appointment letter, your Form I-20 and DS-160 confirmation page, one recent photograph, your current passport, and all previous or old passports. Applications without all of these items may not be accepted.
In addition, you will need to provide biometrics during the visa application process. Continue reading to get the full steps to apply for an F1 visa in Nigeria.
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How do I apply for F1 visa in Nigeria?
Follow the instructions below to apply for an F1 Visa through a US embassy or consulate:
#Step 1: Gather all the required documents.
You’ll have to assemble your supporting documents, as the consular officer will demand them to process your F-1 visa application.
#Step 2: Complete the online application process.
Fill out Form DS-160 online, upload your photo, and print the confirmation page. You’ll have to upload the picture online, except if you’re experiencing difficulty with the application system. It must meet the US visa photo requirements.
#Step 3: Schedule an appointment with a US diplomatic mission
Book an appointment at the nearest US embassy or consulate. Note that a visa interview is not mandatory if you’re 13 years old or younger. You also won’t need to attend an interview if you’re 80 years old or older.
#Step 4: Visit the embassy or consulate.
At this time, you’ll have to attend your visa interview at the diplomatic mission and submit all the required documents.
#Step 5: Await visa processing and decision.
Wait for the embassy’s decision. The processing times vary, making it necessary for you to apply early.
How Do You Qualify for an F-1 Visa?
To qualify for a US student visa, you must possess the following documents without any exception:
- A passport valid for at least six months before your trip to the United States
- Form DS-160 confirmation page, which is generated after completing the nonimmigrant visa application online
- One printed or digital photo of you
- Receipt for visa application fee
- Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant (F-1) Student Status
The consular officer may also request you to provide additional documentation, depending on your case. These documents can be:
- Your academic certificates and transcripts from schools attended
- standardized test results, such as proof of English language proficiency
- evidence that you’ll leave the United States after completing your course/program. You can use a return flight ticket to satisfy this requirement.
- proof that you can afford your educational and living costs. For example, your recent bank statement.
How much is the F1 visa fee?
The total cost for an F-1 student visa in Nigeria is approximately $510 (₦384,723). This includes the F1 Visa application cost of USD 185 (₦ 139,556). Additionally, the cost for an F1 student visa includes Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) fees and maintenance fees.
Note: You should make sure to save I-901 SEVIS fee receipt for the interview and try to apply early, at least three months before your course start date.
How long does it take to get an F1 visa in Nigeria?
The F1 Visa process is time-consuming, so I suggest you start this process as early as possible. At times it can be processed within 15 days, or it can also take up to three (3) months, depending on the availability of the dates. Also, make sure that the college you are applying must be recognized by SEVP.
To put it simply, after a successful application for the US Student Visa, it may take 15 days to three months to get your visa processed and approved.
How Much is Bank Balance Required for a US Student Visa?
While applying for a US F1 Student Visa in Nigeria, you should have at least $10,000 (₦7,543,600) in your bank account, even though it’s not mandatory. Your account statement for the past six to nine months might be used to demonstrate the funds.
Is a US F1 visa difficult to get from Nigeria?
Getting a US F1 visa in Nigeria is not all that easy, if I am, to be honest. Average Nigerian students have about a 30 percent chance of getting an F1 visa. The F1 visa interview process is usually short, but there is no assurance or guarantee of getting the visa even when you have done your homework well.
According to a report by the Presidents’ Alliance on Higher Education and Immigration, the United States denied 71 percent of students in Nigeria and other West African countries visas in 2022 – a testament to the high denial rate, but you may stand a chance of getting an F1 visa.
Read Next: USA F1 Student Visa Requirements for Nigerian Citizens