Planning to attend college, university, or a vocational school in the United States? This step-by-step 2025 guide explains how Jamaican students can apply for a U.S. student visa — from getting your I-20 form to preparing for the embassy interview.
Which U.S. Student Visa Do You Need?
- F-1 Visa: For academic studies at colleges, universities, and high schools
- M-1 Visa: For vocational or technical studies (e.g. trade schools)
- J-1 Visa: For exchange students and some internship/training programs
Step-by-Step: How to Apply for a U.S. Student Visa
1. Get Accepted by a U.S. School
You must first apply and be accepted into a U.S. school certified by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP). Once accepted, the school will send you a Form I-20 (for F-1/M-1) or DS-2019 (for J-1).
2. Pay the SEVIS Fee
Before applying for your visa, you must pay the SEVIS I-901 fee online at https://fmjfee.com.
SEVIS Fee (2025):
- F-1/M-1: USD $350
- J-1: USD $220
Print your SEVIS fee payment receipt for your visa interview.
3. Complete the DS-160 Visa Form
Fill out the online nonimmigrant visa application at:
After submission, print the confirmation page with the barcode.
4. Pay the Visa Application Fee
The student visa application fee is USD $185 (as of 2025). You can pay online or at NCB Jamaica. Save your receipt for the appointment booking.
5. Schedule Your Embassy Appointment
Visit the U.S. visa scheduling website for Jamaica:
https://ais.usvisa-info.com/en-jm/niv
Create an account and schedule your visa interview at the U.S. Embassy in Kingston.
Documents to Bring to Your Interview
- Valid Jamaican passport
- DS-160 confirmation page
- Visa fee receipt
- SEVIS payment receipt
- Form I-20 or DS-2019 from your U.S. school
- Proof of financial support (bank statements, scholarship letter, sponsor letter)
- Passport photo (per U.S. requirements)
Tips for the Interview
- Speak confidently about your school plans and career goals
- Show proof you can afford tuition and living expenses
- Demonstrate that you plan to return to Jamaica after your studies
When Should You Apply?
Apply as soon as you receive your I-20. Student visa appointments are in high demand, especially between May and August.
