US F-1 student visa interview from Nepal: steps and tips
The F-1 visa process for Nepali students: Form I-20, SEVIS fee, DS-160, documents for the U.S. Embassy Kathmandu interview and what officers want to know.
Get your I-20, pay the SEVIS fee, complete the DS-160 and book your interview in Kathmandu. Explain your course, funding and plans clearly in your own words.
The F-1 visa process step by step
- Get your Form I-20 from a SEVP-certified US school after you are admitted and show your funding.
- Pay the I-901 SEVIS fee online and keep the receipt.
- Complete the DS-160 online application form accurately, including your social media details if asked.
- Pay the visa application fee and create your appointment profile.
- Book your interview at the U.S. Embassy in Kathmandu.
Follow the current instructions for Nepal on the U.S. Embassy in Nepal website and travel.state.gov.
Documents for your interview
Officers may not look at every document, but you should be ready to show anything that supports your answers.
What officers want to understand
F-1 interviews are often short. In a few minutes, the officer judges whether you are a genuine student, can pay for your studies and plan to follow the visa rules. Under US law (section 214(b)), applicants must show they qualify for the visa they request.
- Your study plan: why this course, this university and the United States.
- Your academic fit: how your previous studies prepared you.
- Your funding: who pays, how much, and where the money comes from.
- Your future: what you plan to do with the degree.
Answer in your own words. Short, clear and honest answers are far better than memorised speeches.
Tips for interview day
- Know your university, course, tuition and total costs without reading from papers.
- Be consistent with your DS-160 and I-20.
- Dress neatly, arrive on time and follow security instructions at the embassy.
- If you are refused, ask which section applies, and read what to do after a visa refusal.
Still choosing a university? Start with our US university shortlisting guide.
Questions students ask
How early can I apply for an F-1 visa?
You can usually apply up to a year before your program start date, but you can enter the US only shortly before the start date shown on your I-20.
What does a 214(b) refusal mean?
It means the officer was not satisfied that you qualify for the visa. You can reapply, ideally after addressing what was unclear.
Do I need a US bank account to show funds?
No. Funds in Nepali banks, education loans and sponsor evidence are commonly used.
Talk to a Shrey Education counsellor.
We can review your documents, course choice and budget before you apply.
Book a consultation
