The U.S. Department of State has opened thousands of student visa interview appointments worldwide, giving a much-needed boost to international students preparing for the Fall 2025 intake. This includes F-1, J-1, and M-1 visa categories, and the opportunity is currently live across several countries. Students who have been waiting to schedule their interviews are being urged to act quickly, as available slots are being filled rapidly.
Embassies and consulates in countries like India, Pakistan, Nigeria, Brazil, and more have started releasing interview dates in batches, with some locations offering appointments within just a few weeks. For instance, the U.S. Embassy in India has confirmed the daily release of student visa slots, while reports from other regions suggest a similar increase in availability. Students in high-demand countries such as Bangladesh and Nigeria are also starting to secure their spots, although wait times remain long in some places.
After selecting their country and logging in or creating an account, they can begin the process of scheduling an interview under the appropriate student visa category. It’s essential to have a valid I-20 or DS-2019 form, complete the DS-160 form, and pay the SEVIS fee before scheduling.
Current wait times vary by location. In India, appointments are typically available within about 1.5 months. In Pakistan, the range is 1.5 to 2 months. Bangladesh shows longer delays, with wait times approaching 8.5 months. Brazil and the UK currently offer some of the shortest waits, with immediate or near-immediate availability. Since visa wait times change frequently, students are encouraged to monitor the scheduling platform closely and be ready to book when slots appear.
To be eligible, students must be admitted to a U.S. academic institution and have completed the necessary pre-appointment steps. With the Fall semester approaching, missing this window could mean deferring admission, so it’s crucial to act promptly. Interview slots can disappear in minutes, especially during peak seasons. For students aiming to begin their studies in the U.S. this year, now is the moment to move forward with scheduling and documentation.
