By Vera Samuel Anyagafu
MANY Nigerians desiring to school in the United States of America most times, give up their dreams after failing to go through the stipulated process due to lack of adequate information.

Some others, as we noted in the previous edition, were denied visa for the above reason in addition to not supplying the required documents.

Prior to picking up of US students visa application form, with the intention of pursuing a degree program, complete a technical degree or participate in an exchange program, there are basics you should know to avoid complications leading to visa denials.

US student visas are non-immigrant visas under the US law and so, to qualify for this type of visa, applicants must clearly convince the US embassy that they have the intension and capability to pursue a full time course without financial constraints and be ready to come back to Nigeria, on completion of their studies. Your readiness to leave America after studies is best demonstrated by proving that you have a stable family, strong business and a well paid job.

There are two types of US student visa programs namely the F-1 visa and the M-1 visa. If you wish to attend universities, colleges, seminaries, conservatories and high schools, then you must pick up the F-1 visa while intending students for vocational studies like mechanics, fashion design etc should get the M-1 visa.

It is improper to get any of these forms before admission into any of the available institutions so, the first thing you need do is to locate a United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This service enables you gather information on your choice school.

In as much as many American Universities, colleges and other academic institutions know much about the F-1 visa process, it is still very important to inquire first if the institution you intend to study in is approved by the government and currently accepting international students, so as not to waste time and money pursuing a school that is not approved.

Once you meet the admissions requirement of an approved program, the institution will issue you a certificate of eligibility, this you will present to the US embassy to obtain either the F-1 or M-1 student visa.