Students and Scholars must submit a completed DS-160, Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application, prior to booking their visa appointments at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

For assistance completing the DS-160, you may view the U.S. Department of State's DS-160 FAQ. The HIO has also compiled an FAQ for questions specifically pertaining to Harvard students and scholars.

After you have completed the DS-160, you must take these next steps below:

• Print and keep the DS-160 barcode page.
• Schedule a visa interview appointment. The U.S. Embassy or Consulate does not schedule an appointment for you. Visit the U.S. Embassy or Consulate website where you will be interviewed for country-specific instructions.
• Pay the visa application processing fee. Review country-specific instructions on the U.S. Embassy or Consulate website.