If students are applying for a student F-1 or a J-1 visa for the first time, an in-person interview is usually required. June, July and August are usually the busiest months, so it might be difficult to get an appointment during this time. Applicants for a student F-1 or J-1 visa must provide the following items when they go to the U.S. Embassy for the interview (you can check visa appointment waiting times online):

1. A Form I-20 or DS-2019 (included with your acceptance letter from the University of Alabama)
2. A completed DS-160 nonimmigrant visa application with a photo for each person applying
3. The U.S. Embassy may ask you to also complete a DS-5535 Form, which is a supplemental questionnaire regarding your travel history and social media usage. Please note, not every visa applicant will be asked to complete this form.
4. A passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your expected stay in the U.S.
5. A receipt for the visa processing fee for each applicant
6. A receipt for the SEVIS fee for the main F-1 or J-1 visa applicant
7. Financial documents (such as bank books, account statements, tax documents) that show you have sufficient funds (money) to cover tuition and living expenses during your time in the US. The embassy official might need evidence that there are no restrictions on the transfer of funds that would prevent the funds from being made available during the projected stay.
8. Proof of your relationship to your spouse and children if you are married and/or have children who will come on dependent visas.