Schedule this appointment as early as possible.
🕝 Where to schedule:
👉 Option 1 (Most Countries):
Visit ustraveldocs.com
Select your country from the dropdown
This site handles visa appointments for most countries worldwide
You'll create an account and schedule through their system
👉 Option 2 (Find Your Embassy Directly):
Search for your country
Click on the embassy website link
Look for "Nonimmigrant Visas" → "Student Visas" → "Schedule Appointment"
Required information for scheduling:
Passport number
DS-160 confirmation number
Visa application fee receipt number
Visa Integrity fee receipt number
SEVIS fee receipt number
📅 Wait Times:
Embassy appointment availability varies significantly by location and season:
Short wait: 1-2 weeks
Average wait: 3-6 weeks
Long wait: 2-3 months or more
Peak season (May-August): Wait times increase substantially as students worldwide apply for fall semester programs.
⏰ Scheduling Strategy:
If your program starts in August:
Schedule interview for May or June
Allows buffer time for processing delays
If you have preseason (athletes):
Preseason may begin late July/early August
Schedule interview for April or May
Account for visa processing, travel arrangements, and move-in time
Example timeline:
Program start: August 15
Preseason start: July 28
Campus arrival needed: July 26
Recommended interview: Early June
Provides 6+ weeks for processing and logistics
If appointments are full: Check daily for cancellations. Slots frequently open up as other applicants reschedule.