How to get a US Schooling Visa from Bangladesh

Do you want to enroll in a US high school as an international student from Bangladesh? Worry not, your comprehensive guide is here.

The education system in the USA can be distinguished from the learning landscape in Bangladesh in terms of many aspects. Enrolling in high school in the United States would be a tremendous opportunity for the young minds of Bangladesh to broaden their horizons.

Although it can be formidable to find the ideal fit and handle the application process, given the abundance of institutions to choose from. But here’s the good news, those who do want to move to the US to complete their high school education can sort through several options available, each being distinctive and an illuminating experience.

The United States is regarded as one of the greatest nations in the world for a reason. Their education system is top-notch, having one of the largest economies and a booming tech market. So coming from Bangladesh, the schooling landscape in the States has a wide array of options to choose from. From public to private schools, university-accredited courses, and an eclectic range of extracurricular activities. With such opulence in your academic career, it can be stretching to narrow it down to one.

Before planning for any academic adventure, the first thing is to ask yourself the right questions. At the rudimentary stage, you need to rule out the period of your intended course of study. As an international student coming from Bangladesh, you can only enroll in a public school in the US for 12 months. Private schools are more lenient with their regulations, allowing an international student to study for the full duration of the academic program, considering their visa requirements are good to go.

The private and public school scenes are contrastive in various ways. Public schools, supported by funding from U.S. taxpayers and mandated to adhere to state-approved curricula, provide an educational environment more aligned with the typical American student experience. Although public schools aren’t on the house, you do have to pay tuition but the cost is remarkably low in contrast to private schools. Regardless of institutional type, you can only enroll in schools that are aligned with the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP).

It’s crucial to assess whether your school offers a dedicated international student program, consider its location, and explore available housing options in the vicinity. Trusted international student exchange organizations can assist in school selection, or you can independently research using the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) School Search tool.

Uncertain about your eligibility for an F-1 student visa? Assess your eligibility now!

If a student exchange program is not your route, then you will need to directly get admission to the school you would like to enroll in. Different schools have different criteria and processes, but let us have a look at some of the materials that must be included in your application.

• Application essay
• Financial statements demonstrating fee and expense coverage
• Proof of language proficiency (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS scores)
• Transcripts
• Immunization records

Additional requirements may include:

• Essays
• Interviews
• Teacher recommendations

There are two types of U.S. student visas for international students, primarily defined by the J-1 exchange visitor visa and the prestigious F-1 student visa. The J-1 visa encapsulates a cultural exchange experience, notably accessible within U.S. Department of State-sponsored high school programs. In contrast, the F-1 visa serves as the gateway for non-exchange high school academics, accommodating students in public institutions for a year or more at private schools.

The acquisition of the highly regarded F-1 visa necessitates the procurement of Form I-20, which is the “Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status,” facilitated by the designated school official (DSO). This critical document propels the application process for the F-1 visa. A recent strategic policy update by the U.S. State Department extends the issuance of F-1 visas to 365 days before the program’s commencement, affording students an expanded timeframe for seamless application procedures. However, it remains imperative to adhere to the stipulation of entry within 30 days before the program’s initiation.

Unless you are enrolled as an exchange student under the J-1 visa category, be prepared to cover the entire school fee, irrespective of whether it is a public or private institution. The specific costs vary, typically ranging from $3,000 to $10,000 annually for public schools, with private institutions often requiring a higher investment.

A crucial step involves settling the I-901 SEVIS fee of $350 for F-1 visa holders before initiating the F-1 visa application process. Keep a record of this payment, as proof may be required during your interview and entry into the United States. J-1 visa holders, although exempt from school fees, are still obligated to pay the I-901 SEVIS fee, which amounts to $220.

Meeting the financial obligations associated with tuition and application fees can be strenuous for international students, as eligibility for financial aid from the U.S. government is restricted. While some private schools may extend scholarships, an alternative avenue involves exploring private loans from U.S. lenders. Additionally, consulting the U.S. embassy in your home country can unveil potential funding sources to facilitate your academic journey.

Despite the general limitations on financial aid for international students from the U.S. government, the Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study (YES) Programme stands out as a remarkable opportunity for Bangladeshi high school students.

Since its inception in 2004, this program has seen active participation from 457 Bangladeshi youth, who have served as ambassadors. In the current academic year (2023-2024), 18 students from various regions in Bangladesh are pursuing their studies in American high schools across states such as Pennsylvania, Indiana, Wisconsin, Colorado, Arkansas, and Iowa.

Tailored for Bangladeshi students aged 15-17, the program facilitates a transformative academic year in an American high school, complete with the experience of living with a host family. It provides a unique platform for cultural exchange, enabling students to share their heritage with both Americans and peers from diverse countries. Originally established in 2002 by the late U.S. Senators Edward M. Kennedy and Richard Lugar, the YES Programme has impacted over 13,000 students from 37 countries, fostering a deeper understanding of American society and values.

Are international high school students allowed to work in the US?

If you are enrolled in a U.S. high school under a J-1 visa through an exchange program, unfortunately, you cannot work side by side to continue your studies. On the other hand, if you possess an F-1 visa, there might be employment opportunities, subject to specific conditions.

While studying in the USA as an exchange student, can I travel elsewhere?

Certainly. If you have either an F-1 or J-1 visa, you are allowed to take short trips outside the U.S. Before your departure, ensure that your visa is still valid and permits multiple entries. Additionally, have your I-20 form (for F-1 visa holders) or DS-2019 form (for J-1 visa holders) signed for travel by your DSO or program officer.

Is it possible to switch schools while on an F-1 or J-1 visa?

Certainly. It is possible to transfer schools on both F-1 and J-1 visas. If you hold an F-1 visa, reach out with the DSO at both your current high school and the intended transfer school. For J-1 visa holders, seek out another organization who will sponsor you and coordinate with them accordingly..